Example Itinerary

Day 0: Arrive in Chamonix, pre-course briefing and kit check at 1900.

DAY 1: Ecole de glace. We make use of the uplift system to head up onto glaciated terrain to learn how to safely and efficiently travel in the mountains. Starting with crampon technique we’ll practise moving on snow and ice before roping up for glaciated travel and going on an introductory journey where we will use ice axes and learn about glaciers and the hazards they present. Return to the valley for the night.

DAY 2: Today we’ll trek to a high mountain refuge in the morning and in the afternoon practise crevasse rescue and prepare for the next day’s climb before an early night in the refuge.

DAY 3: We make an early start from the hut and watch the sun rise as we approach our climb up the Glacier du Tour. At the head of the glacier we cross over the Col du Tour to Switzerland and the Trient Glacier where a short traverse leads to the foot of the Aiguille du Tour and the climbing begins. We’ll make the ascent of the classic route on the Aiguille du Tour with summit views across to the high peaks of the Swiss Valais and the Mont Blanc Massif. We’ll descend back the same way to the valley and debrief over a well-earnt drink.

This is an example itinerary and is subject to change depending on prevailing weather and mountain conditions. The course and objectives can be changed to cater for clients with previous rock climbing experience.

Course cost, 1:1 €1650, 1:2 €850,1:4 €695 per person

An introductory glacier training day with crevasse rescue can be ran at a ratio of 1:4 for €125 per person

Suitability: This course is designed at an entry-level so is appropriate for people with no previous mountaineering experience. The course will be physically demanding so you should be prepared for three days in the mountains ascending up to 1200 vertical metres on the summit day whilst carrying a pack.

INCLUDED

• IFMGA Mountain Guide(s)

• Arrangement of any mountain huts for the course itinerary

• Provision of group safety equipment for the days on the mountain

• Local travel required to complete the course itinerary

• Uplift costs for your Mountain Guide (in the Chamonix valley area only)

• Assistance in arranging local accommodation

NOT INCLUDED

• Travel to and from Chamonix, travel outside the Chamonix valley if conditions dictate a change of course venue

• Accommodation in the valley

• Uplift costs (including for your Mountain Guide outside of the Chamonix valley area)

• Personal mountaineering equipment (this can be hired at the prices detailed below)

• Half board accommodation for our nights in mountain huts (including for your Mountain Guide)

• Insurance which must include provision for helicopter rescue (mandatory). If you require recommendations for insurance providers then please get in touch.

EQUIPMENT HIRE

Ice axe, crampons, harness and helmet can be provided for a hire fee of €15 per day. Mountaineering boot hire can be arranged with Snell Sports in Chamonix.