UTMB Mont-Blanc 2025 Travel Guide for Runners
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Event Dates: 25 August – 31 August 2025
Base Location: Chamonix, Haute-Savoie, France
Website: https://utmb.world
✈️ Getting There
Nearest Airports:
- Geneva Airport (GVA) – Most popular option (~1 hour 15 min to Chamonix)
- Lyon-Saint Exupéry (LYS) – ~2.5 hours
- Milan Malpensa (MXP) – ~3 hours
Transfers to Chamonix:
- Shared Shuttles: Easybus, AlpyBus, Chamexpress – book early
- Private Transfers: Ideal if you’re travelling in groups
- Rental Cars: Not necessary for race week if staying in Chamonix, but helpful for side trips
🏨 Accommodation
Where to Stay:
- Chamonix Centre: Ideal for easy access to expo, start/finish, and atmosphere
- Les Houches / Argentière / Vallorcine: Quieter and more affordable, with train or bus access
Tips:
- Book 9–12 months ahead – places fill up fast!
- Check for UTMB cancellation policies
- Consider Airbnb, gîtes, or mountain lodges if hotels are full
🧭 Navigating Chamonix
Transport:
- Free shuttle buses run throughout the valley
- Free Mont-Blanc Express train from Servoz to Vallorcine with Carte d'Hôte (ask your hotel)
- Walking-friendly town – bring comfy shoes for support crew!
🥖 Food & Essentials
Supermarkets: Carrefour, Super U, Biocoop (organic)
Pharmacies: Available for blisters, muscle relief, etc.
Dining: Pasta-friendly restaurants include Poco Loco, Bighorn Bistro, Casa Valerio
Sports Stores: Ravanel, Sanglard, Cotswold for emergency gear
🏔️ Local Tips
- Weather: Unpredictable – pack for hot, cold, and wet in the same day
- Language: French is widely spoken. English is common during UTMB week
- Currency: Euros (€); card accepted nearly everywhere
- Altitude: Chamonix sits at 1,000m; UTMB peaks >2,500m – allow 2–3 days to acclimate
- Pre-Race Shakeouts: Take the trails to Plan de l’Aiguille, La Flégère or Le Lavancher
📸 Must-Do Experiences
- Ride the Aiguille du Midi cable car (3,842m) – pre-book online
- Visit Lac Blanc for an iconic alpine hike
- Tour the UTMB Expo Village – athlete talks, brands, nutrition booths
- Attend the start & finish line in Chamonix – unforgettable energy
🧘♀️ Recovery & Relaxation
- QC Terme Spa (Pré-Saint-Didier, Italy – 40 min drive)
- Massage Therapists available in Chamonix – book early during race week
- Public swimming pool & saunas at Centre Sportif Richard Bozon
🇦🇺 For Aussie Runners
- Allow time to adjust to time zone and altitude
- Look for Aussie catch-ups on social or via race week events
- Practice gear checks and drop bag routines at home
- Travel insurance covering sports events & medical evacuation is essential
