What a perfectly marvelous trip: A great workout every day, the luxury of no responsibilities, good company, and amazing landscapes. - C.H. – Washington
This trip allows you to explore the French Alps at a slower pace, with 2 towns as home base. You'll embark on beautiful day hikes and then return back to your comfortable hotel each night. Expect to work hard on the trail and kick back at night, with fantastic dining options every evening. 3 nights in Megève and 4 nights in Chamonix provide plenty of time to delve deep into this most beautiful section of France. A final night in Annecy adds a touch of medieval flair, while still keeping you in close proximity to the Alps.
We rate this trip as moderately strenuous. Most days will include 4-7 hours of hiking. There will be some steep ascents and descents, averaging 1500 to 2500 feet per day at an elevation up to 8500 feet above sea level. This trip is best suited for experienced hikers in good physical condition.
You'll stay in chic, comfortable hotels on this tour. Three nights will be in Megève, France. The following four nights will be in Chamonix, with the final night in a chic hotel near the medieval city center of Annecy.
You'll want to fly in and out of Geneva for this tour. We'll provide a shared shuttle to and from the airport at the beginning and end of this trip. Just let us know your flight details, and we'll arrange that for you.
Our tour prices are based on two travelers sharing a room. If you prefer a private room to yourself, the single supplement covers the "other half" of the room charge.
We keep our tour groups small, usually averaging about 10 guests. A group needs 6 guests to run, and will not exceed 14 guests. A small group size ensures more care and attention for each person from your guides and allows for more flexibility based on hiking pace.
We'll send a detailed packing list specific to your trip. You'll need to pack your own clothing, rain gear (just in case!), daypack, and hiking poles. You'll also want a few nicer outfits for dinners. Your guides will provide first aid gear, navigation tools, and snacks.
Yes, we highly recommend hiking poles. In addition to helping with balance and stability, poles provide a boost on the steep inclines, and cushion your knees on descents.
Yes! Your bags will be driven to your hotels for you while on this tour. You only need to hike with a day pack. Please note that transferred luggage may not exceed 15 kg (33 lbs) per bag, as per the French Labour Code. If you prefer to travel with a large suitcase (heavier than 33 lbs), we recommend packing an empty tote or duffel bag inside your suitcase. You can then use this on the tour to split up the weight of your luggage for transfers.
Tips aren't required, but they are greatly appreciated. Your Alpenwild guides go above and beyond to make your trip a special experience. A tip is a great way to acknowledge that.
We rate this trip as moderately strenuous. You should be an experienced hiker in good physical condition. You should be capable of walking 5-7 hours per day on good trails with some steep ascents and descents, averaging 1500 to 2500 vertical feet per day at an elevation up to 8500 feet above sea level.