Australians are being urged to plan early as demand grows for one of Europe’s most popular walks.
Refuge bookings open on October 15 for the Tour du Mont Blanc in 2027 with French authorities moving towards new measures requiring multi-day walkers to have accommodation booked in advance.
More than 90,000 people reportedly walked the Tour du Mont Blanc this summer, up from 75,000 in 2025, according to figures from Les Amis de l’UTMB, reported by French newspaper Le Monde.
The 170km trail crosses France, Italy and Switzerland and has experienced growing demand in recent years, placing increased pressure on accommodation and sections of the route.
French authorities are preparing a management charter that is expected to introduce compulsory advance accommodation reservations for multi-day walkers on the French section during the summer season.
The proposed system covers refuges, hotels, campsites and authorised bivouac areas and is expected to become operational in spring 2027.
Kate Baker, UTracks General Manager, said travellers with particular dates in mind should avoid leaving arrangements until the last minute.
“The message for Australians considering Mont Blanc in 2027 is very simple: plan early. If you have your heart set on particular dates, especially during the most popular months, this is not a trip to leave until the last minute,” Ms Baker said.
UTracks includes pre-arranged accommodation and luggage transfers on its Tour du Mont Blanc itineraries, removing two of the logistical challenges associated with organising the multi-day walk independently.
On guided departures, luggage may be transported by mule on sections of the route, requiring travellers to use smaller soft-sided bags, while lightweight duffel bags are required for self-guided itineraries.
Ms Baker said better management of accommodation could help protect the trail and surrounding communities while giving walkers greater certainty about where they will stay each night.
