Four days to discover or progress in a cascade of ice, in an atmosphere of winter mountain life.
This course is suitable for both beginners and more experienced climbers who wish to lead climb. We will first climb on single-pitch routes to revise the fundamentals (belaying, footwork, rhythm), and then tackle multi-pitch routes according to the group's level. Each person can choose to climb in front or behind.
Depending on the conditions, we will be able to undertake mixed winter mountaineering itineraries, learn how to build a relay and manage the rope in varied terrain.
The location is chosen based on the current ice conditions: Maurienne, Chamonix / Val d’Aoste or Oisans.
Departure guaranteed from 3 people.
We stay in a friendly gîte, in shared rooms, often located close to the ice sectors. Evening meals are taken on site, prepared by the hosts or shared depending on the location.
Breakfast and picnic lunch are included or organised together.
This course is open to everyone. No previous ice climbing experience is necessary: we'll go over the basics together, from putting on crampons to building ice belays. All you need is some previous mountaineering experience and the ability to climb on your own. If you're a beginner, you'll be able to climb pitches on more technical routes, adapted to your experience.
The exact location is decided a few days before departure, depending on the ice conditions. We give preference to the Maurienne, Chamonix/Val d'Aosta or Oisans areas, depending on where the ice is best and safest at this time of the season. This flexibility allows us to ensure that the course runs smoothly whatever the conditions.
The trip is still on. If there is a lack of ice, we opt for mixed routes or winter mountaineering: couloirs, gullies and ridges. It's a great way to broaden your skills and discover another facet of the mountains in winter. The spirit of the course remains the same: climb, learn and adapt to what the mountain has to offer.
As a group, we take stock of the equipment we have available. I can help you complete your equipment, in particular helmets, ice axes and crampons. If you'd like more specific equipment, a good option might be to hire it. We can also see what ropes everyone has.
Nothing is compulsory, but it can also be a great objective on an easy pitch! For those who are more comfortable, the idea is to take a rope party behind or with me, to climb a route in several pitches.
Live with your guide, from first contact to the summit.
Creative and flexible
A flexible framework for devising the most appropriate itinerary or activity for each day, depending on the group and the conditions.
