Les Contamines-Montjoie: an authentic starting point for the TMB
Nestled at 1,167m altitude in the Bon Nant valley, Les Contamines-Montjoie is the preferred alternative for hikers who want to avoid the crowds in Les Houches. From Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge, the trail climbs directly toward the Col du Bonhomme, the first major ascent of the TMB on the French side. The problem: the village isn't equipped to host hundreds of vehicles for long-stay parking — public car parks fill up fast and time limits rule out a stress-free TMB stay.
Why avoid the Notre-Dame de la Gorge car park?
- Free municipal car park — but no guarantee: The village's main free car park is full by 9am in July–August. Its duration isn't officially limited, but social pressure and the lack of spaces force a turnover. In practice, leaving your car for 9 days risks friction with residents and other users.
- Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge car park: This car park, at the entrance to the Montjoie valley and the foot of the path to the Col du Bonhomme, is the most sought after. It's packed every weekend from June to September and designed for day hikers — not the TMB. Several hikers have come back to find their car blocked in or flagged.
- No night-time surveillance: None of Les Contamines' public car parks is guarded. A car left for several days is a potential target for theft of visible items inside.
- Ski-lift car parks: Reserved for skiers in winter and local hikers in summer. Extended use for the TMB isn't authorised and may result in a fine or towing.
Long-stay parking: the advantages of our private offer
In Les Contamines, ParkTMB works with residents who know the TMB inside out — some have done it several times. Your car doesn't just sit "somewhere": it's entrusted to someone.
- ✓Spot reserved in your name, guaranteed for the entire duration of your trek (1 to 14 days)
- ✓Secure spot on private property, away from summer congestion zones
- ✓Available, reachable host throughout your hike
- ✓From €8/day — €72 for a classic 9-day TMB
- ✓Direct contact with your host, free cancellation up to 48h before
Close to TMB shuttles
Trail access from our spots in Les Contamines
Les Contamines is a direct gateway to the Tour du Mont Blanc, with immediate walking access to the trail:
- On foot to Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge: A 30-minute walk from the village. This is the classic starting point for the stage toward the Col du Bonhomme — the first major ascent of the TMB on the French side.
- Bus from Le Fayet / Saint-Gervais: Regular line (20 min) from Le Fayet station. If you arrive by train, this is the simplest, most direct connection.
- Beaufortain variant: For hikers taking the variant via Hauteluce and the Col des Saisies, Les Contamines is the ideal meeting point before joining the classic TMB route.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Parking in Les Contamines
Can you really start the TMB from Les Contamines?
Yes, and it's an increasingly popular choice. You skip the Les Houches → Les Contamines leg and join the heart of the French TMB directly. Ideal if you have 7 to 8 days rather than 10–11.
The municipal car park is free — why pay ParkTMB?
The free car park guarantees no spot, offers no security, and can cause friction during extended stays. With ParkTMB you pay for a guaranteed spot and vehicle security. €7/day is less than a coffee to leave stress-free.
How do I get to Les Contamines by public transport?
Easiest route: TGV to Saint-Gervais-le-Fayet, then bus line N°4 towards Les Contamines (20–30 min). In summer, buses run frequently and the route from Le Fayet is direct.
Explore other Tour du Mont Blanc starting points
Each TMB starting point offers a different experience. Compare long-stay parking options from other villages: