The TMB (Tour du Mont Blanc) written by IML Jo Blackshaw
This is my favourite destination because it’s a stunning hike through spectacular scenery. For those of you that don’t know it, the TMB traces a route around the Mont Blanc massif through France, Italy and Switzerland, over several high passes lasting 10-14 days. I am easily bored, so the fact that I have done it 20 times and am still doing it says volumes and I still get my camera out. Every day someone in the group says it’s their favourite day yet which makes my job easy! The scenery is impressive!
Another reason it’s a great destination is the food! We stop at refuges along the way and there is plenty of delicious Savoyarde food, you have to like salami and cheese. There are also amazing ‘tarte aux myrtilles’ (blueberry pies). And, amazingly for destinations you can walk to, each country has a different feel from the others.
How easy is it to get to?
I find it easier to get to Chamonix from my home in North Wales than it is to drive down to London. I can get a flight from Manchester to Geneva where there are so many shuttle services it is easy to get taken directly to the hotel I’ll be working from.
Can you tell us about the most memorable moment of a recent trip?
My most memorable moment of a recent trip is inevitably the things clients come out with! One said at the welcome meeting, having seen me pack my rucksack with everything they needed for the trip “I’ll be alright, won’t I, my suitcase has wheels?”!!! Needless to say they had booked onto the wrong trip!
What are your top tips for anyone travelling to this area?
My top tips are to not carry too much for staying at the refuges as bedding is provided and they are generally warm, you just need a sleeping bag liner. Everyone is wearing walking clothes so don’t take unnecessary clothing or too many toiletries.
It is a high mountain path that is uneven and demanding, walking poles are highly recommended and everyone that starts using them on the TMB is converted to using them for all their hiking.
What else is there to do, other than mountaineering, in this area?
Other activities are limitless! Chamonix is the adventure capital of Europe, especially if you have no nerves. You can go paragliding, mountain biking (using the ski-lifts so it’s all downhill) or take a variety of crafts down the river. The lifts take you up to some even more spectacular views. In Courmayeur it is easy to get to the spa at Pre-Saint-Didier for a well-earned day of relaxation.
Are there any dangers or annoyances here?
I haven’t come across any dangers or annoyances, there aren’t even any mosquitoes.
During the early season there can be a lot of snow left over from the winter which can make sections of the TMB dangerous and needing careful consideration. If you are with an IML then they will know what to do at these sections, but decent walking boots and poles are a must in such conditions.
What one piece of kit could you not manage without on a trip like this?
I would struggle without a multi-purpose lightweight Buff (a neck gaiter, other makes are available). When it is super hot, a Buff is great soaked in cold stream water and worn around your neck. At night in the dormitories, it makes a very good eye mask to prevent being disturbed by lights and has the added bonus of keeping earplugs in place too. It can be a good sweatband around the wrist when it is hot or a hat for when it is colder. Or, you can tie your hair back with it when it is very windy.
How do people contact you if they want to find out more?
People can contact me via my website www.jojourneys.com
Thank you Jo!
