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Tour de Monte Rosa
Also known as: TMR / Monte Rosa Tour
The Tour de Monte Rosa offers a challenging yet rewarding circuit around the second highest mountain in the Alps, taking you through both Switzerland and Italy. With its diverse landscapes ranging from glacial terrain to lush meadows, this trek provides a less crowded alternative to the Tour du Mont Blanc, while still delivering awe-inspiring panoramic views.
Distances
- 9 - 10 days, 163 km, +11,000 m, 3,316 m high point
- daily: 6 - 8 hours, 16 - 20 km, +1,000 - 1,400 m gain
Route
- circuit
- Starting and ending in Zermatt, Switzerland
When to go
- June to September
Day 1
Zermatt to Randa (1,400 m)
Distance: 15 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: -208 m
Begin your trek from Zermatt, following scenic trails towards the village of Randa. Enjoy panoramic views of the Matterhorn.
Day 2
Randa to Grächen (1,619 m)
Distance: 20 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: +219 m
Hike through lush forests and picturesque landscapes, arriving in the charming village of Grächen.
Day 3
Grächen to Saas-Fee (1,800 m)
Distance: 17 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +181 m
Trek through rocky terrain and ascend to the stunning Saas-Fee, a charming car-free Alpine resort.
Day 4
Saas-Fee to Macugnaga (1,327 m)
Distance: 20 kmTime trekking / climbing: 8 hoursElevation change: -473 m
Cross the border into Italy and hike to the Italian village of Macugnaga, surrounded by dramatic peaks.
Day 5
Macugnaga to Alagna (1,190 m)
Distance: 20 kmTime trekking / climbing: 8 hoursElevation change: -137 m
The Monte Rosa will be out of view, but not for long.
Day 6
Alagna to Gabiet (2,370 m)
Distance: 14 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: +1,180 m
The main trail leaves Rifugio Pastore by following the Sesia river down to the village of Alagna Valsesia.
Day 7
Gabiet to Resy (2,050 m)
Distance: 16 kmTime trekking / climbing: 8 hoursElevation change: +320 m
The path largely steers clear of the ski area as it descends toward Resy, a quaint village boasting two mountain cabins and breathtaking vistas of Val d'Ayas.
Day 8
Resy to Theodul Pass (3,295 m)
Distance: 18 kmTime trekking / climbing: 8 hoursElevation change: +1,245 m
After making your way down through the glacial moraine, you'll encounter a challenging ascent that leads you to the highest point of your journey and your overnight base, located at the Colle del Teodulo.
Day 9
Theodul Pass to Zermatt (1,608 m)
Distance: 16 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: -1,687 m
Return to Zermatt, completing the circuit around Monte Rosa. Celebrate your achievement!
Can be done in either direction but consider what time of day you'll reach the glacier (Theodul) - ideally you cross in the morning when the ice is less defrosted. If you're going counter clockwise you can stay at the huts preceding making a morning crossing easy.
Tour de Monte Rosa weather
How is the weather on Tour de Monte Rosa, and when is the best time to go.
The Tour de Monte Rosa trek is most commonly undertaken between June and September, when the weather is relatively stable and warm. These months offer the best conditions for trekking, with less chance of snow and rain. Outside of these months, the trek can be more challenging due to snowfall and colder temperatures.
The best time to trek Tour de Monte Rosa is in these months:
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
Tour de Monte Rosa access - getting there
How to get to Tour de Monte Rosa
The route can be started in multiple places, typically hikers choose:
- Zermatt (Switzerland)
- Saas Fee (Switzerland)
- Alagna Valsesia (Italy)
All can be reached after flying in to nearby international airports (Geneva or Zurich in Switzerland, or Milan in Italy) and then taking public transport.
Geneva is nearest.
Tour de Monte Rosa Links
useful websites, Groups and communities
Groups / links with more info on the Tour de Monte Rosa route.