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Getting to Les Houches / Chamonix to start the TMB
Last updated 25 October 2026 · Elom ESSAN, founder of Trekalto
In short
Les Houches and the Chamonix valley are the most common counterclockwise TMB start / finish. You find stations, buses, and access to the first stages. For lifts (e.g. Bellevue), check compagniedumontblanc.fr and chamonix.com — 2027 schedules are not invented here.
Why Les Houches?
Counterclockwise, many plans start at Les Houches toward Les Contamines (~16.2 km, +800 / −650 indicative). The valley offers lodging before / after the tour, groceries, and links toward Geneva or Tarentaise depending on your journey. Overview: TMB.
Bellevue gondola and other lifts
The Les Houches–Bellevue gondola is a common early-tour shortcut. Summer 2026 (labelled example): open about 6 June–13 September 2026; adult one-way about €18.90, return about €23.90. For 2027, check Compagnie du Mont-Blanc / Chamonix — no invented fare. Other aids: Flégère / Brévent near the end of the loop.
Before and after the tour
Arrive with a buffer night if you book on hut opening day or take a long train. Keep a night after finishing for weather delays. The planner aligns days and nights; the budget guide helps price valley nights.
Visitor information
For valley practical info (outside the Trekalto catalogue): chamonix.com and the English site en.chamonix.com.
FAQ
Must I start at Les Houches?
No, but it is the classic counterclockwise start. You can also start from a night already booked elsewhere, keeping direction consistency.
Is Bellevue open all TMB season?
Not necessarily. In 2026 the published example ran about 6 June to 13 September. Check 2027 on official sites.
Where do I find bus and train times?
On operator and tourist-office sites (e.g. chamonix.com). Trekalto does not publish invented 2027 schedules.
Related guides
Plan your self-guided TMB with Trekalto
Get a day-by-day split, critical nights flagged first, and official booking links. Unlock online (Essential €19 or Complete €29).
Plan my TMBSources: Chamonix.com, Chamonix.com (EN), Compagnie du Mont-Blanc, Autour du Mont-Blanc. Figures may change; always confirm with the refuge or carrier before you leave. Method: /en/method.