Stage 1

You leave Les Houches and climb into the Montjoie valley on a well-marked path through forest and pasture. Expect about 6 hours on the trail, with the Aiguilles Rouges and Mont Blanc massif coming into view as you gain height.

The climb toward Col de Voza and the long descent past Notre-Dame de la Gorge are the main work. Les Contamines-Montjoie is a good first night - small, walkable, and easy to settle into after a full day.