The expedition!

 

Tour du Mont Blanc 2011

21^st July – 4^th August

168km   3 countries   7 valleys   12 days

Aim:  To foster the spirit of adventure and encourage, through active participation, the development of leadership skills.

Objective:  To walk the famous Tour du Mont Blanc circuit.

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a circuit of 168km which loops the highest mountain in Europe. The famous trek is a huge challenge as the accumulated height gain and loss is over 10,000m with the route crossing eleven mountain passes. Each valley has unforgettable views and it’s own character from bustling tourist villages to pastoral valleys in Switzerland.

The expedition will attempt this circuit and aim to be as self-sufficient as possible. We will carry all our kit from tents, cookers, food and personal equipment. We will camp wherever possible but we will also use mountain huts where accommodation will be in dormitories. This is no Sunday afternoon stroll in the park! This is incredibly challenging and the mental challenge of such an expedition is often just as important as being physically fit enough. Tears will be shed, but this is part of the experience. People often return from such challenges with changed perspectives and a developed sense of self belief. All members of the expedition will have responsibilities before and throughout the trip whether this is as a medic, navigator or a budget holder and will be involved in the planning and risk assessments.