Internationale groepsreis Mont Blanc Highlights

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MONT BLANC HIGHLIGHTS

What a stunning week!  Unrivalled views, excellent hosting by Oliver and Elaine whose care and obvious enjoyment of their work made this a fun, exhilirating and memorable walking holiday.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were several highlights of the trip:  after the somewhat long and, at times, challenging walk to reach the top at 'Lac Blanc' it was worth every minute.  We were privileged to see Ibex who paused long enough for photos posing adjacent to the turquoise meltwater. The trip to Italy was beautiful - the amazing 'balcony walk' through meadows filled with wild flowers identified and described by Oliver, whose extensive knowledge made them even more interesting. Every day was different and memorable in its own right. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Oliver, as our group leader was caring, enthusiastic, knowledgeable and also great fun!  His co-pilot, Dylan, was also amusing (Fox Terrier!).  At all times, we felt safe, included and we could not have asked for a nicer person to make the walks interesting and fun .

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

I would certainly advise being prepared for changable weather.  One day we experienced all conditions apart from snow!  It was often warm and benign low down needing suncream and sunhats, but at high altitude the weather became cool and wet on two occaions thus needing our waterproof leggings which we had fortunately packed in our backpacks.  

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would recommend this trip to potential Exodus customers.  As a grade B walk we felt it was about right - some challenging walks and some less so.  However, every day was a full days' walk and the hot-tub and large evening meal (with plenty of wine) was much appreciated. Our third Exodus holiday and more to come!   

MONT BLANC HIGHLIGHTS

Everything about our holiday gets 5 stars, but above all credit goes to the mountains and to Oliver and Elaine for organising, leading and feeding us so well. The wonderful weather and friendly, mutually supportive group were excellent bonus features!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Hard to choose just one highlight out of 5 varied and interesting walks, with stunning views every day. As a couple, we get 2 choices (!) - on the 2nd walk, passing through Alpine meadows on one flank of the Val Ferret while looking across to the stunning rock and glacier faces on the opposite flank; and on the final day, the view from our higest point across the Chamonix valley towards Mont Blanc, the Aiguille du Midi etc - the whole range spread out before us. And it was 25C at 2,300 metres! Then there was the Lac Blanc; the views from both ends of the Chamonix valley; the delicious myrtle tarts at the mountain refuges; the fun group; the sunshine... sorry, I am going on a bit now.  

What did you think of your group leader?

Oliver and Elaine really could not be bettered for a holiday like this. Oliver wears his immense experience and mountain skills very lightly under the front of relentless flattery ("No group has ever looked so good on day 2" etc etc) and terrible jokes. He shepherded us unobtrusively and helped to engender a strong sense of mutual support among the group. Elaine ran a great house with hearty mountain food to keep us going and clean, comfortable beds to crash in at night. The hot tub, table tennis table and endless energy of Dylan-the-Villain all added to the fun. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go prepared for all weathers, and have a wonderful time. Look out for each other in the group. Laugh at Oliver's jokes (especially the one about aliens landing in Les Houches). 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Go find out for yourself!

MONT BLANC HIGHLIGHTS

An amazing experience, stunning scenery, fabulous walks and led by Oliver, a quiet man with a great sense of humour, energy, knowledge and love of his surroundings.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

For me, just too many, but if I have to choose, the first time Mont Blanc appeared through the clouds on the initial walk, and the later walk (climb!) to Lac Blanc - Chris For me, the moment I realised that life and its worries were blown away by the age and grandeur of the Mont Blanc range - Mel

What did you think of your group leader?

Exceptional in every way. His ability to communicate his knowledge, respect and love of the mountains inluding the flora and fauna was infectious. Oliver assessed the various abilities in the group with discretion and sensitivity so that the group gelled naturally and supported each other with care and humour. Oliver's second in command on some of the walks, Dylan the fox terrier was a great companion and the source of much commaradarie. Back at base camp, Elaine set you up for the day with a substantial lunch and a different home made cake every day! A three course meal had been prepared, waiting for you on your return. Heaven!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Yes, don't doubt in your own ability to do any of the walks. The rewards are amazing. Make sure you have a good pair of walking boots. Hydration tablets in a camel pack are a good idea. Energy bars are useful. Would strongly recommend the cable car to the Aguille du Midi as early as possible (6.30am) on the free day.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A truly fabulous experience. A trip difficult to follow. A very warm welcome and home cooking make you feel looked after. Great tarts at various refuges on a variety of walks. A reward for a morning's effort that you can indulge in without any worries about the calories!

MONT BLANC HIGHLIGHTS

I had a wonderful week on this trip.  It was my first walking holiday so was unsure what to expect but was pleasantly surprised by the beautiful scenary and the varied walks each day.  I particular enjoyed the door stopper sandwiches made by the lovely Elaine.  When you've been trekking up a mountain all morning they are just what you need!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There was great camaraderie in the group I was with and we all supported each other during the trickier sections.  Finishing the challenging trek on Tuesday morning was particularly rewarding.  The views from the top were incredible.

What did you think of your group leader?

Oliver was a very supportive group leader with endless knowledge about the area and history of the region.  His jokes were an acquired taste - but we all got used to those! ;o)

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you want to explore the beauty of the Alps and want some home comforts at the end of the day, I think you'll really enjoy this trip.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Almost forgot to mention Dylan, Oliver and Elaine's fox terrier who accompanies the group on most of the walks.  He's a little rascal and will melt your heart - as he did to mine!

MONT BLANC HIGHLIGHTS

Fantastic trip, amazing views and really good food. Nice to have the luxury mixed in with the work. Oliver and Elaine make it home from home, really good hosts and bent over backwards to make sure we got to do all the things we wanted on our 'day off'

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Eating tart at Mama's surroubded by amazing views and good company

What did you think of your group leader?

Couldnt fault Oliver. Patient, knowledgable, good fun, really made the trip

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

MONT BLANC HIGHLIGHTS

A wonderfully well-crafted week's walking in an exceptionally beautiful and inspiring area.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

That cold beer after the long descent from the Lac Blanc; the leisurely picnic lunch on the Aiguillette de Brevent on the last walk with the opportunity to savour the stupendous view of Mont Blanc close up and the views over to earlier walks; the pink of the setting sun on the snow on Mont Blanc from the Chalet window.

What did you think of your group leader?

Oliver is endlessly patient and good-humoured. Our group was of varying abilities and experience but he brought out the best in everyone. He manages the tasks of shepherd and host in a very relaxed way.  And he really knows and loves the area.  

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Make sure you have a good level of fitness to enjoy the ascents. On a couple of days there are both long ascents and descents. If you are a very fast,fit walker you may need to accept that others are not and that you have to accept the necessary discipline of walking as a group. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This holiday exceeded my expectations in every way. For those doubtful about their ability to do a hut-to-hut in the high mountains it is a really good option. The Chalet isn't luxurious but it is comfortable and well set-up for walkers. And above all, you will have fun and be very well fed.

MONT BLANC HIGHLIGHTS

A good range of walks with differing terrains and views of the Alps.  Travelling time to the walks is limited and time on the walks is well balanced with free time at the end of each day.At the end of each day I felt like I'd had an enjoyable day but never too tired and looking forward to the next day.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

My first trip to the area and has encouraged me to go back

What did you think of your group leader?

First class.  Whilst on duty guiding or "off duty" hosting in the chalet along with Elaine, Oliver was a great leader.  Mindful of all in the group and the range of abilities. Determined to ensure we all had a good holiday

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Book this holiday for a good range of walks, views, being well fed and entertained (or cringe) at Olivers jokes and tales.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Another good value Exodus holiday. 

MONT BLANC HIGHLIGHTS

I had a wonderful time and would thoroughly recommend this trip to anyone wanting to see the best of this beautiful area. The views on the walks were simply stunning and the hospitality of the hosts Oliver and Elaine made for a friendly and welcoming atmosphere at the accommodation. I hadn't travelled on a group trip like this before and was unsure what to expect, but couldn't have asked to spend the week with a nicer group of people, which helped to make the week perfect. If you are as lucky as we were with the weather, make sure you go up the Aiguille du Midi and Helbronner cable cars on the free day - the views are just unbelievable!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Hard to choose one moment/day, but I think my favourites were climbing up to Lac Blanc - which was a bit of a slog but well worth it - and day 3 above Val Ferret which was (thankfully) modified from the original itinerary thanks to Oliver's local knowledge and was full of some of the most beautiful alpine flower meadows I have ever seen!

What did you think of your group leader?

Very experienced and this knowledge has enabled him to plan some excellent and rewarding routes, which didn't seem too busy even in mid-July. The pace each day was just right, which was quite an achievement given the diverse range of people/ages in the group. I reckon he needs some new jokes to tell though!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

You will enjoy it more if you get your fitness up beforehand and are used to walking - good boots are also a must, I had some Meindl Burma pros and these were a lifesaver for my feet! Plan in advance for the free day too.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Just do it, you will have a lovely time! Watch out for their very sweet Fox terrier Dylan pinching your sandals though!

MONT BLANC HIGHLIGHTS

This was a fantastic holiday. The walks were well chosen through beautiful scenery and the leadership was great, ensuring that everyone in the group was able to comfortably appreciate the surroundings. The chalet was very cosy and the food delicious.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Every day was lovely but I particularly enjoyed the walk to Lac Blanc with exceptional views of the Mer de Glace. I found the ascent difficult but was rewarded at the top with a hot chocolate in the sunshine next to a beautiful lake, while baby Ibex roamed nearby.

What did you think of your group leader?

Oliver was a very skilled group leader and a fun and friendly person. He was able to judge the ability of each member of the group and set the pace accordingly. He was very safe  and careful, and seemed to have an endless supply of knee straps and energy drinks. What I enjoyed most about this trip was that Oliver gave us time to enjoy the scenery, take photographs and indulge in coffee and pear and chocolate tart at refuges without ever feeling rushed. Oliver has obviously worked very hard to forge good relationships with the owners of the best refuges ensuring that we always recieved a warm welcome, despite descending on them in large numbers and sometimes eating our own food. Although we did plenty of walking and I returned home with sore legs and a couple of blisters, this really did feel like a relaxing holiday, and that was thanks to Oliver.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Although there are some quite lengthy ascents they are taken at a steady pace so don't worry too much if you are like me and not super fit.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

MONT BLANC HIGHLIGHTS

A relatively easy way to experience awe-inspiring scenery. You can just take in the beauty of nature without worrying about anything else.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The purity of the mountain streams, the beauty of the mountains and the overwhelming feeling of happiness being part of the world which is somehow completely absent in normal everyday life.

What did you think of your group leader?

Oliver was very caring and looked after all of our interests. He is more or less omniscient though not in an annoying way. An incredibly nice man with an even nicer dog and a wonderful sense of humour.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go for it.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Elaine worked incredibly hard to cater for our every need. It was much appreciated. She and Oliver made us feel at home instantly. A very difficult thing to achieve. Thanks to them both.

MONT BLANC HIGHLIGHTS

Unique! A week wirh some of the friendliest people I have ever met. Walking with Oliver was a special experience, he is an expert in so many fields, but he was ever watchful of his group. He was always bubbling with humour. After our walks there was always a warm welcome home by Elaine, with her delicious food and twinkly good humour. Not to mention the hot tub, Dylan-the-dog, and the puns!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Finding meadows alive with flowers in hidden valleys high in the mountains  - and knowing that I had walked every step of the way.

What did you think of your group leader?

Inspirational and extremely professional. It takes vast experience and expertese to maintain Olivere's level of good humour and leadership while still monitoring individuals AND hold together a  group with a range of experience and ability. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Remember to take gloves along with the hat and sun block.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

It was more than a holiday. I've come back fitter, my spirits are higher and I ate and drank heartily throughout! The beds were very comfortabe - very important after a day walking! 

Mont Blanc Highlights

One of the walks was ordinary. Like a woodland walk. Because of snow in the advertised walk we were told. But could have been a better alternative. Apart from that I would have given an excellent. Guide, Simon, accommodation and meals were all great, as were John and Jayne who looked after us.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Probably the trip to the Italian side with the views and wild flower meadows.

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent. Not only was he very knowledgeable, he could also tell a good joke. Natural leader and helped make the holiday. I am going to book the Tour of Mont Blanc next year, mostly because of his information about it and, of course, the taster I have had.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

You need less clothes than you think!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I wish I had visited the Alps before now. Loved it. Loved the people who were in the group, and apart from the small, and I mean small, comment in the first answer, everything else was great.

Mont Blanc Highlights

Great accommodation, fabulous food (thank you Sarah and Rich) and wonderful walks (thank you Mark).

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Probably the impromptu dance session at The JazzClub in Chamonix

What did you think of your group leader?

Great! Mark chose great walks that gave us wonderful views.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be reasonably fit! You don't need to be able to bound up mountains but you do need to maintain a steady plod, especially if the weather is inclement.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Don't expect to lose weight. The exercise just gives you an appetite to eat everything that is put in front of you as it is all delicious!

Mont Blanc Highlights Review - July 2016

The Tour of Mont Blanc highlights proved to be an excellent holiday for myself and my wife. The scenery, the walks, the weather and the supporting Exodus people were all brilliant.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Our hosts Sarah and Rich were very nice and friendly people - it is worth going on the holiday just for Sarah's amazing cooking. We all looked forward to seeing what she created for dinner. I had the best food across the week that I have ever had on any holiday. I was tempted to miss one of the walks and ask her if she could teach me how to cook like that. Forget Jamie Oliver and the rest - Sarah is the boss. The walks - and Sarah's lunches - were consistently good and it is difficult to pick out a favourite.

What did you think of your group leader?

The guides Rupert and Jen were very reassuring and set the length and pace of the walks according to the capabilities of the whole group. They dealt very well with members of the group with height concerns on elements of the walks and made the walks fun. If you can't talk while you walk, you're walking too fast was one of their suggestions! Jen taught us how to use walking poles correctly which was a massive bonus from the holiday. The Italian walk, Le Brevent (suggested to the group by Jen as it was more interesting than the Aiguillette Des Houches walk) and a snow covered Lac Blanc were all really rewarding walks with super views. Jen took us on a little used path on the return from Lac Blanc and we got up close to Ibex, Marmotts and Chamois which was an unexpected bonus.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

All in all an excellent introduction to Mont Blanc and Exodus.

Mont Blanc Highlights

Just returned home from this fantastic trip. We had fabulous weather which made it even more enjoyable. The scenery and views were brilliant and worth every puff and upward step to reach the top to gain them.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

All the walks were wonderful, the one that really stood out for me was travelling through the Mont Blanc Tunnel into Italy and then walking up to the Bonatti Refuge and being rewarded with a cup of hot chocolate ( which I have to say is the best I have ever tasted).

What did you think of your group leader?

Mark was very knowledgeable and explained each walking day in detail the night before so we knew what to expect. He was friendly with everyone and pointed out things of interest along the way with amusing stories and anecdotes, keeping us entertained. His 'Alpine Shuffle' kept us all together and enabled all of our group to achieve the assents and descents ensuring nobody was left behind.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

I feel that not only do you require a general level of fitness as the brochure states, but ideally, you should also be a regular hill walker as the assents could be challenging for some and descents tiring at the end of the day. This should not put anyone off of this wonderful trip as long as you are confident of your ability.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thanks to Jane and Colin, our chalet hosts. What can I say the room was clean, warm and comfortable, nothing was too much trouble. As for the food - this was fantastic, a lovely variety throughout the week, all being well cooked and presented; there was always plenty to fill you after a days walking. They provided a great selection for our packed lunches, always being topped up, ensuring enough for everyone. The hot tub was an added bonus to ease any aches at the end of the day.

Excellent Chamonix Walking holiday

An excellent walking holiday that encompasses all the best bits of the tour of Mont Blanc into 1 week with the luxury of a chalet base in Chamonix.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Amazing walking with a constant back drop of the Mont Blanc massif.

What did you think of your group leader?

Fantastic leader who was knowledgeable, friendly, sociable (always ready for a beer and chat at the end of each walk and joined us for dinner and a drink in the evening), made the group feel safe on the mountains paying particular attention to people who felt uneasy on uneven and steep ground. Some members of the group were difficult to manage and didn't seem to understand that group safety was the guides priority, and even in this difficult situation the guide was professional and attentive to everyones needs. I always felt safe and well looked after on the mountains.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

There is some steep climbs at moderate altitude but the guides ensure that you can take your time and you never feel pressured to keep up with the group. So walk at your own pace, stop regularly to enjoy the views and you will get up and down the hills with out difficulty. This is a great taster trip if you haven't done anything like this before put are thinking of doing a trekking holiday in the future.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A very well organised trip with all the best bits of the tour of Mont Blanc with the luxury of a chalet with hot tub to come back to every night. With Chamonix a few minutes walk from the chalet you have the convenience of bars, coffee shops (with great cakes) restaurants and shops close by. Overall a great trip which has everything you could ever need for a great weeks walking. The chalet is amazing with great views, great chalet hosts, with excellent food (and plenty of it), plenty of space to socialise, a garden, balcony and hot tub. Everything you need at the end of a great day in the mountains.

beautiful day walks in stunning scenery

We went at the end of September and were blessed with sunshine on all but 1 day, so could appreciate the stunning vistas of Mont Blanc as we walked on the surrounding hills. amazing food each evening - some of the best deserts I have ever had great group of people made the trip fun.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Day walks with amazing views from all angles, mostly in the Chamonix valley but the day walk in Italy was beautiful, classic alpine scenery watching for wildlife and seeing an Ibex and marmot. the trip up to Aiguille Midi on our day off - expensive but worth it for the views and fascinating displays at the top The food in the chalet

What did you think of your group leader?

outstanding. Mark was extremely experiences, knowledgeable and tailored the walks to the weather and group. Good advice and information, very supportive to those group members on the trickier bits of the walk. He also gave good information for options for the day off, particularly walks possible from the middle cable car station (although check that the cable car to the ice cave are open - they were closed at the end of sept)

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be aware of the amount of climb and descent. The pattern of most walks was to climb from the valley in the first few hours of the morning, traverse and then descend at the end of the day. Often this involved 900m of climb first thing, but it was a steady pace with time to admire the views. Being fit and doing some uphill preparation will make this more pleasurable. Take poles if they help with the downhill (knees). Be aware of the season as the trip notes explain, all cable cars are not open in sept.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Great being in the chalet only 10 minutes from the centre of town, so it was easy to stroll to the shops in the evenings.

Mt. Blanc Highlights - Perfect in every way

A perfect hiking vacation for those with a moderate level of fitness who are used to several consecutive days of hiking in the mountains. Snow capped peaks, verdant alpine meadows full of flowers in June and (lucky me) blue skies and sunshine every day (not guaranteed!!). A small group of friendly and fun people led by an expert professional who made sure everyone was safe and comfortable all the while letting people enjoy the hiking, the scenery, photography at their own pace. Excellent food and accommodation which far exceeded expectations.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Waking up each morning with a view of Mt. Blanc and the Bossons Glacier knowing that each day of hiking would bring us through forests, alpine meadows, mountain passes in unparalleled scenery. Paragliding off Aiguille du Midi right up against Mt. Blanc and over the glacier, across the valley, over Chamonix for a perfect landing. At 68 I might not have had the nerve to do this but was encouraged by two young women in the group to do it together and it was one of the most awe inspiring things I have ever done. Thanks Emily and Vickie!!!

What did you think of your group leader?

Simon was a true professional, extremely well organized, eager to share his wealth of knowledge about the area, the trails we were on, even the alpine flowers and animals (Ibex, marmots) that we encountered. He obviously cared deeply that everyone was safe and comfortable each day of the hike and went out of his way to be with the group, sharing amazing stories and bringing fun and laughter to us all. You could not ask for a better leader.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Make sure you are used to hiking up and down mountains before you go. Also not everyone will get the perfect weather our group had so make sure you have appropriate gear for rain and cold. Spend your day off paragliding off the Aiguille du Midi - YOLO!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The food I enjoyed far exceeded expectations. Colin and Jane provided great evening meals. I was not expecting gourmet dining such as Tartiflette or Duck and Cassoulet. I looked forward to dinner every day. Plenty of good nutritious food for breakfast and for packed lunch. Afternoon tea when we got back from hiking was home made cakes and cookies. The lounge area, with our own kitchen and the balcony provided a common area where the group could gather, share stories and become friends. Colin and Jane made sure everyone had everything they needed in terms of food and drinks.

Fantastic trip!

This is a great weeks walking in the most beautiful surroundings and staying in lovely accommodation with great food

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Getting to the top of the peaks after a few hours climb to be rewarded with fantastic views The gondola cable car over the glacier at Aiguille De Midi was spectacular

What did you think of your group leader?

Mark is a highly qualified experienced guide. He knows the area like the back of his hand and you feel very safe in his hands. He managed to keep us all on track despite having a very mixed ability group

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

This is a great weeks walking. The walks are not any way near as hard as I feared and the ups and downs were never too severe. Do take walking poles - especially for the downs and knee supports if you use them as a lot if our group seemed to do. I went up to the Aiguille De Midi on the free day and the while experience was awesome - I would definitely recommend doing this

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Go for it you won't be disappointed