Food ranks as one of the more important aspects of travelling (atleast I feel so!). On the Tour du Mont Blanc you'll eat well across three countries, but each segment has its own flavor, price tag, and personality.
Where the anticipation builds: Italy
I'm always counting down the stages until Italy. Fresh pasta, rich ragù, and creamy risotto hit differently after a long day in the mountains. Courmayeur is the place to linger over a big bowl of tagliatelle, grab gelato for dessert, and maybe go back for a second espresso because you earned it.
The Swiss stretch: pricey but delicious
Expect to feel the bill a bit more on the Swiss side. Portions are generous, though, and this is raclette country-gooey melted cheese over potatoes with pickles and onions is exactly what tired legs want. Think hearty, simple plates that replace calories fast, even if your wallet notices.
Home cooking on the trail
Refuges and mountain huts often serve straightforward, comforting meals: soups, stews, roast meats, and piles of carbs to refuel. You'll recognize the “family kitchen” vibe from the Peaks of the Balkans: nothing fancy, but warm, filling, and perfect for swapping stories over a shared table.
Town treats: Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Courmayeur
When you drop into the big hubs, options explode. In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Courmayeur you can chase croissants with espresso, order pizzas or burgers, or sit down for multi-course dinners with a view. Prices vary, but you can always find something quick and satisfying if you're on a budget.
Final bites
If you're a planner, book dinner in popular huts early during peak season. If you're a wanderer, just follow the smells of melted cheese and fresh bread. Either way, TMB rewards hungry hikers-just pace yourself so you still have room for that gelato in Italy.
