FAQ
We strongly advise you to use free smartphone apps. SwitzerlandMobility, or Swisstopo. The advantage of these applications is, among other things, that they are updated at least once a year, which is not the case with a paper map, of course. They are much more accurate than Google Maps, which we advise against using in the mountains. However, remember to download the maps necessary for your hike at home, while you have Wi-Fi.
For fans of paper maps, the «Du Rhône aux Muverans» map covers the entirety of the TdM, at a scale of 1:25,000. It can be purchased from various specialist retailers and tourist offices, particularly the one in Ovronnaz., boutique-ovronnaz.ch
The free smartphone app MeteoSwiss provides fairly precise real-time information. Otherwise, you can always get information from the hut wardens. However, don't forget to bring the necessary equipment in case of bad weather and cold.
Yes, no problem.
One of these sections is a ledge that winds at the base of the Dents de Morcles, on the stretch from Col du Demècre to Rionda. It can easily be avoided by following the signage. «Tarot de Marseille variant, via the Chalet Neuf.
The other passage, the highlight of the TdM, is the Col des Martinets, at 2612 m, perfectly secured. If you want to avoid it, follow the «Variant» allowing access to the Tourche cabin in Pont-de-Nant, via the Javerne alpine pasture.
It is not forbidden to walk your dog. You just need to remember that a large part of the Tour takes place in a Federal District and that the rule that will apply is to keep it on a lead for the entire affected section (Rambert-Derborence-Anzeindaz-Pont de Nant-La Tourche). Some huts provide areas (kennel, enclosure, shed, etc.) for your four-legged companion, so please check directly with the wardens.
These are routes that are not part of the TdM, but which you can take provided you have a good head for heights. Le Pacheu, starting from the Lac de la Forclaz, is not waymarked and the descent (beware of falling rocks) onto the glacier is done using chains (handrail). Once on the ice, you need to navigate carefully to reach the path leading to the Plan Névé hut.
The Chamois Pass (starting from Plan Névé) is a Alpine hiking trail, which carries risks and cannot be compared to «a country walk».
The main starting points on the Tour are: Ovronnaz, Derborence and Pont de Nant. You can also join the Tour at the following points (subject to a 1.5-hour walk to reach them): The Erié or Lérié (Completely), The Martinaux (Morcles) and Solalex (Bex). Note that the latter's car park has a charge. It is also possible to reach the’Au D'Arbignon by a road that climbs from Collonges (Prepare for a 4x4).
In the Federal District (Rambert-Derborence-Anzeindaz-Pont de Nant-La Tourche) camping is forbidden. On the rest of the route, there are no restrictions. However, if you plan to pitch your tent near a refuge, please inform the warden. Beware of watercourses (flooding).
The TdM is a walking tour. The recommended period is from June to September.
In some years, it can be workable from early June to late October.
It is difficult to do the Tour in winter, mainly due to the risks of avalanche and the numerous couloirs to cross. Furthermore, the wild fauna's rest must be respected.
Most of the huts are closed in winter, and none are staffed.
Certains sites sont assez fréquentés en hiver, surtout du côté d’Ovronnaz (et un peu sur Pont de Nant). Mais il ne faut pas oublier que le TDM reste une randonnée estivale.