The end of complete freedom for tourists. France is introducing changes to the regulations

One of the most famous routes in Europe is struggling with an increasing influx of tourists. Local authorities concluded that the situation had gotten out of control. However, the problem is not just the piston. In recent months, there have been complaints about garbage, illegal camping, feeding wild animals, and even meeting their physiological needs in random places. “In the face of these abuses, we are showing that the ‘get away with anything’ approach is over,” says Jean-Marc Peillex, mayor of Saint-Gervais, located at the foot of Mont Blanc.

Tourists in the Alps do not respect nature

The Tour du Mont Blanc runs through France, Italy and Switzerland and is one of the most famous trekking routes in the Alps. According to the data cited, more than 90,000 people passed through it this year. people, while in 2022 there were about 60 thousand of them. Unfortunately, as its popularity grew, more and more problems appeared. The owner of one of the accommodation facilities said that in illegal camping sites, toilet paper was found under stones, and he had to secure the garden with barbed wire. Other tourists were to feed Alpine ibexes, sleep outside designated areas, and even expect amenities such as elevators or spas at mountain facilities.

No more one-day trips

From next summer, stricter rules will apply on the French part of the route. Tourists will have to prove that they have booked accommodation in an official place, and camping outside designated zones will be prohibited. The transport of luggage by taxi will also be limited, and trekking backpacks will be allowed. Seven French municipalities have adopted new regulations. Peillex argues that the point is not to close access to the popular trail, but to regain control over tourist traffic and protect the mountain surroundings from the effects of its increasing popularity.