Passy: the smart alternative for parking your car during the TMB
Nestled on the Plateau d'Assy at nearly 1,000m altitude, Passy benefits from a strategic location between Chamonix and Saint-Gervais-les-Bains. For hikers who want to avoid the saturated car parks of Chamonix-centre or Les Houches in high season, it's the perfect compromise: quieter, more affordable, and connected to the official TMB start (Les Houches) in 15 to 20 minutes by shuttle or shared taxi.
Why Passy's public car parks aren't suited to the TMB
- Limited duration: The municipal car parks on the Plateau d'Assy and in Passy town centre cap parking at 24h or 48h maximum. Setting off for 7 to 11 days on the TMB means coming back to a fine, or worse, a towed car.
- No surveillance: Open car parks in residential areas or along roadsides aren't monitored. Leaving a car loaded with hiking gear (boots, backpack, GPS) unguarded creates a theft risk.
- Saturation in July-August: Passy is a tourist destination in its own right (spa, summer skiing, hiking). In peak season, the few available spots are taken by mid-morning by local users and passing tourists.
- Narrow roads: The roads on the Plateau d'Assy are winding and narrow. Parking on the roadside isn't just uncomfortable — it can also result in a fine if it obstructs traffic.
The advantages of private ParkTMB parking in Passy
Booking a spot through ParkTMB means peace of mind for the entire duration of your Tour du Mont Blanc:
- ✓Among the lowest rates in the valley: from €8/night, versus €12 to €20 at guarded car parks in Chamonix or Les Houches.
- ✓Spacious spots: ideal for SUVs, camper vans and motorhomes that struggle to find a properly sized spot in resort towns.
- ✓Verified local homeowners: every host is vetted by our team. You get your car back exactly as you left it.
- ✓Booking confirmed in advance: no bad surprises on arrival. You know before you leave that your spot is waiting.
- ✓Calm and discreet: spots are off public roads, on fenced private properties or watched-over gardens.
Security and peace of mind
How to reach the TMB start from Passy
Passy isn't on the TMB trail itself, but reaching it is quick and easy:
- By taxi: 15 to 20 minutes from the Plateau d'Assy to Les Houches. Estimated one-way fare: €20-30. Ideal for dropping off your bags and setting off early in the morning.
- By shuttle: Seasonal shuttle services connect Passy / Saint-Gervais to the valley's transport network (Cars des Alpes). Check the Chamonix Bus line timetables.
- By carpool: The TMB hiking community is active. Facebook groups and the BlaBlaCar app make it easy to find a ride to Les Houches from Passy on the day.
- Getting back to your car: At the end of the TMB (arriving in Chamonix or Les Houches depending on your route), a taxi or shuttle takes you back to Passy in under 30 minutes.
Frequently asked questions — TMB parking Passy
Is Passy close to the TMB start?
Passy is about 12km from Les Houches. By car, a taxi or shuttle can take you to the TMB start in 15 min. It's a good option if you want cheaper, quieter parking.
What are the advantages of parking in Passy?
Passy offers some of the lowest rates in the TMB area (from €6/day), fewer crowds than Chamonix, and often larger spots (great for motorhomes and large vehicles).
Explore other Tour du Mont Blanc starting points
Each TMB starting point offers a different experience. Compare long-stay parking options from other villages:
- Private parking in Les Houches — official TMB start— The iconic counter-clockwise start
- Long-stay parking in Les Contamines-Montjoie— A wild, nature-immersed start
- Long-stay parking in Le Fayet — Mont-Blanc Express— Gateway to the Montjoie valley
- Secure parking in Montroc-le-Planet— Direct access on the Chamonix side