This first section of the Tour of Mont Blanc is an uninspiring uphill slog to the Col de Voza and you could be forgiven for wondering what on earth the fuss is all about, but you have to get away from the town somehow.
Even in less than perfect weather there is much to recommend the Col du Tricot route and if the sun shines you will be rewarded the extra effort by some tremendous views.
It’s best not attempted if there is a risk of thunderstorms as there is little shelter on the high stretches.
A satisfying stage – from the gentle amble by the stream at the start to the climb up to the Plan des Dames and the Col du Bonhomme. There are some steep climbs but you are rewarded with excellent views, and though the route was crowded at the start when the day trippers turned off for the Lacs Jovet, we had the mountainside more or less to ourselves until we reached the col du Bonhomme.
We’d recommend the refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme – good hearty food, friendly and helpful staff and small bedrooms.
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