10th – 14th September 2027
Acorns Trek the Alps 2027
The Alps, France
Registration: £390
Minimum sponsorship: from £1,460
Find out more
Interested in our challenge but have questions?
Catch up on the recent virtual information session hosted by Acorns and trek provider, Different Travel, to find out all about what you can expect. If you have any further questions, put a virtual coffee and chat in with the Events team by emailing Events@acorns.org.uk
Join #TeamAcorns for a truly unforgettable experience across three countries!
Join #TeamAcorns for this epic adventure that takes us through the Alps – with three countries in three days. This challenge will see you explore France, Italy and Switzerland as we take on a section of the Tour du Mont Blanc.
The route encircles the Mont Blanc Massif and is considered one of the world’s classic long-distance walking trails.
The challenge
This trek is graded moderate to challenging because of the combination of long days trekking over uneven mountain terrain, including steep ascents and descents for approximately 6-8 hours each day (variable depending on group pace), and basic sleeping conditions. It is essential that your training includes hill walking and trekking up and down gradients to best prepare you.
Full Itinerary and Information Brochure
Itinerary to follow, please check back soon.
Payment options
Sponsorship option
Pay a registration fee of £390, then fundraise £3,500 for Acorns. By signing up, you are committing to raising a minimum of £3,500. Part of this amount is used to cover the cost of your trip.
Please read the full terms and conditions before signing up to the event.
Flexi option
Pay a registration fee of £390 plus trip costs of £2,040*, then fundraise £1,460 for Acorns. By signing up, you are committing to raising a minimum of £1,460.
Our expert Events team will be on hand to support you with your fundraising to help you achieve your target.
*Trip cost balance is payable to Acorns Children’s Hospice by 18 June 2027.
Please read the full terms and conditions before signing up to the event.
Ready to take on the challenge?
Sign up before 11 June 2026 to receive a £50 off your registration fee! Use code Acorns50.
Take a look at the Alps Trek in photos!
Frequently Asked Questions
What's included in the price?
- Return flights from London (inc. current taxes and fuel surcharges)
- Transfers and transport in Geneva
- Accommodation in hotels, chalets & refuges (4 nights)
- Meal as specified in the brochure
- Local guides
- UK Different Travel tour manager
- Dedicated Acorns staff representative to accompany you on the trek
What's not included in the price?
- Travel insurance
- Tips (approx. £50 per person)
- Personal expenses (e.g. drinks, souvenirs, etc.)
- Vaccinations
- Trek kit and equipment
What time are the flights?
Please be aware that flights will depart from London. Different Travel seek the cheapest possible flights to ensure that as much fundraising as possible goes towards funding our vital care and support for local children and families at Acorns Children’s Hospice. You will need to organise your own transport to the airport.
Exact flight times will be confirmed at a later date. Outbound flights from the UK to Geneva will be on 10th September 2027, return flights to London on 14th September 2027.
Who accompanies us?
You will be accompanied by local guides who have an excellent knowledge of hiking in the region. The guides are first aid trained and will support you throughout your journey. You will also be accompanied by a Different Travel Company UK tour manager and Acorns staff representative(s).
How tough is the terrain?
The terrain will vary but in general you will trek on well-maintained trekking trails across rolling green hills, on stony trails next to gushing rivers, and a few small sections on paved roads. You will also pass through beautiful pine forests where there may be uneven terrain and tree roots to watch out for, or cross small streams using stepping stones.
There are steep sections, so it is important that you have trained on hills in advance of departure.
What will the climate be like?
The climate is unpredictable in alpine regions but in general, the temperature will range from 20-25°C during the day and 10-20°C at night. Weather conditions will vary but in general you will experience sunny, clear days with a small chance of rain.
As you ascend into more open and exposed areas of the mountains there may be very cold winds so having a suitable waterproof jacket and warm mid layer is important.
Please note: the temperatures and conditions above are historically accurate but climate change can impact the seasons so you may experience uncharacteristic conditions during the trip which are out of our control.
The guides will assess the situation and make decisions to ensure the best enjoyment and safety of the group.
Will we be trekking at high altitude?
The maximum altitude reached on the trek is 2537m at Grand Col Ferret. The average altitude is 1500m. When you ascend to higher altitudes it may make the trek feel more demanding than if it were at sea level, but your risk of altitude sickness is very low.
What is the accommodation like and who will I share with?
Before the trek you will stay in a hotel near Courmayeur on a twin-share basis with en-suite facilities. During the trek you will stay in basic chalet and mountain refuges in mixed dormitories. Basic bedding is provided in the refuges, but you may wish to bring a sleeping bag liner for your own peace of mind and comfort.
What will the food be like?
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided throughout the trip as per the itinerary. Breakfast will be typical continental style with items such as cheese, ham, fruit, bread and pastries, and served with tea and coffee.
You will have a picnic lunch each day and the food items will be shared out in the morning to be carried by the group. A typical lunch may include fruit, cured meat, cheese, bread and salad.
Dinners will be taken at the refuge and you will be served a set ‘Menu of the Day’ with soup and salad with bread to start, a main dish and a dessert. Bread and cheese will feature highly in your meals! Please inform us in advance if you have any dietary requirements or preferences.
Who can take part?
You must be aged 18 or above to take part in the trek unaccompanied. It may be possible for you to participate if you are aged 16 or 17 years old if you are accompanied by a parent or guardian – please contact us for advice.
How fit do I need to be?
You should have a good level of fitness to ensure fast recovery from each day of trekking.
You must engage in training (including plenty of walking up and down hills) before departure to ensure your best chance of enjoyment on the trip. This could include hill walking, running, cycling, gym workouts, boot camps, etc.
You can download a number of free apps to help you train and track your progress e.g. MapMyWalk, C25K, MyFitnessPal etc. Attempting to complete the trek without training will make it more challenging than necessary and will be detrimental to your experience, and the experience of your teammates.
What if I am unwell during the trek?
If you are unwell or injured, and unable to join the group for the trek, arrangements will be made for you to travel with the support crew. Please note that the transport will be at a personal cost to you.
Suggested kit list?
Kick start your fundraising
We’re here to support you all the way! By signing up for the event you will receive support from our Events team to help with your training and fundraising and the amazing feeling you’ll get from knowing you’re making a real difference to local children! Here are some simple ways to give your fundraising a boost, if you need more support we’d be happy to help. Just get in touch at events@acorns.org.uk.
