Intro to the Alps 2025 - Run The Wild

Mont Blanc provides a stunning backdrop to this introduction to alpine trail running weekend. Enjoy a cheese & wine tasting checkpoint. Relax each day in the 4* spa hotel’s heated outdoor pool with breathtaking views.

DURATION

2 Days

DISTANCE

26 KM

DIFFICULTY

400m ascent

PACE

All Abilities

SPACES

FINISHER’S TREE

Included

31st May-2nd June 2024

SOLD OUT

Full Ticket price: £540

Please note that you are paying a deposit at checkout, the full balance will be payable 6 weeks prior to the event.

Please ensure that you have read our Terms and Conditions and Rules of Participation, as by making payment you confirm that you agree and understand the conditions as well as risks involved with trail running.

13th-15th June 2025

JUST LAUNCHED

Full Ticket price: £555

Please note that you are paying a deposit at checkout, the full balance will be payable 3 months prior to the event.

INTRODUCTION TO THE ALPS

Chamonix sits at the foot of Mont Blanc, providing a stunning backdrop to our Intro to the Alps weekend. As featured in the Times Top 30 Active Holiday Ideas, Telegraph’s Best Running Holidays and the Guardian, this is a perfect adventure for any runner looking to discover mountain trails! This weekend caters for those who are new to alpine running and those with more experience.

The trails wind through pine woods, up to balcony paths, with breath taking views over Mont Blanc. We pick some stunning routes of 13-15km each day which show the valley at its very best. Along the way, we teach techniques to help increase your confidence over this terrain. Our experienced guides bring the wild to life, with information about the local history, flora, fauna and geography. Each day features a checkpoint with local and seasonal produce. One day includes our famous cheese and wine tasting!

This activity break focusses on both running, and relaxation. Each run lasts around 3 hours, leaving you plenty of time to relax and explore Chamonix or take a trip up to the Aiguille du Midi. You will be staying in a 4* spa hotel with access to a pool, sauna and jacuzzi so you can unwind and enjoy the views.

On the Friday evening the group meets for dinner with the Run the Wild Team. It’s a great weekend to make new friends and enjoy alpine trail running at its best. As with all Run the Wild holidays, all you have to do is book your flights, turn up and run – we will take care of the rest!

A deposit of £200 is taken at the time of sign-up with the balance taken 3 months before the trip is due to start. Let us know if you prefer to schedule payments following your deposit.

ARRIVAL

Friday 6.00pm

LOCATION

Chamonix, France

TRAVEL ACCESS

Via Geneva Airport (1.25hrs)

ACCOMMODATION

4* Spa Hotel

ITINERARY

Arrival for the holiday is on Friday and finishes on Sunday afternoon.

IN DETAIL

Arrival:

Check in from 4pm but you can use the hotel facilities from any point during the arrival day. Group welcome at 6.00pm at the hotel, followed by dinner at 7.00pm.

Day 1:

Starting around 9am we lead you on a beautiful trail that provides stunning views over the Chamonix valley. We don’t go up too high and we walk the hills. Today we teach you trail running techniques to build your confidence. We host a cheese and wine tasting checkpoint just a few kilometres from the end. In the afternoon you have time to relax back at the hotel enjoying the outdoor heated pool or explore stunning Chamonix.

Day 2:

We lead you on another beautiful route providing another perspective on the Chamonix valley and surrounding peaks. We build on the trail running techniques we discussed on Day 1. Another checkpoint with seasonal produce, and then we head up to the glacier rewarding us with epic views. From there it’s a beautiful gentle run down to the hotel. This leaves you plenty of time to relax by the pool before taking transport back to Geneva. If you wish to stay longer ask us for the hotel rate.

GETTING THERE

Transport to/from Chamonix via Geneva can be booked with one of the many minibus operators, such as Chamexpress, Mountain Drop-Offs, Alpybus or Swiss Tours. The journey takes around 1.25hrs and needs to be booked before travelling. We recommend arrival times into GVA of not much later than 3pm on the Friday and no earlier than 7pm departure from GVA on the Sunday to ensure that you can meet the timings of the holiday.

ACCOMMODATION

2 nights in the central 4* spa hotel Le Refuge des Aiglons (or similar alternative) including breakfast each morning, based on sharing a twin room. You can request a single room (supplement applicable). Amenities include the spa with heated outdoor pool, hot tub, steam room and sauna. The hotel also has an outdoor space to relax in, with views of Mont Blanc.

ABILITY

This running holiday is suitable for anyone able to run 10km non-stop within 75 minutes on a flat road. Be prepared to walk uphills to get the great views! Our experienced and qualified Run Leaders offer many tips along the way, so whether you are relatively new to running trails, looking to explore the valley or an experienced runner, you will be looked after. We group runners by ability to maximise your enjoyment. We provide a free training plan for you to follow in the lead up to the trip. All levels of yogi are welcome!

This adventure can also be easily booked for a private group, see our bespoke options.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Overnight accommodation for 2 nights in a 4* spa hotel, including breakfast (based on sharing a twin room)
Group evening meal on the first night
Refreshment point each day including our legendary cheese and wine tasting!
Qualified trail running guide, with you every step of the way
2 Mornings of guided trails
Technical instruction
Training plan
Trees not Tees certificate
Stunning Alps scenery!

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
Travel

Drinks at the hotel

Lunches and evening meal on second night

Snacks to sustain you on route

Personal insurance (required)

Lift passes if required

KIT

You can see a list of the mandatory kit for this trip here. If you have any questions regarding kit requirements please contact us.

BOOKING

Following booking you will receive your ticket details, which will include a link to the downloadable joining instructions and affiliate discounts. Please check your spam folder for our email. Your booking is secured with a deposit. Following your booking you will receive another email within 48hrs with the receipt detailing both your deposit as well as the date when the balance needs to be paid. For information about cancellations, click here.

For all our events there is a minimum group size for it to go ahead, so travel arrangements should only be made once we have confirmed this with you in writing.