In a nutshell
Discover, learn and progress.
Come and discover ice climbing in Haute-Maurienne, one of the best playgrounds in the Alps ! From Val Cenis to Bonneval sur Arc, there are plenty of sites suitable for beginners, and the consistently cold climate on the north side of the valley guarantees ice all winter long.
Roadbook
Day 1 :
Welcome and equipment check. We lend you crampons, ice axes, harness and helmet.
We spend the day at Les Barmettes, in Bessans, a perfect place for beginners with many equipped routes.
On this first day, we’ll teach you the basics of belaying and safety, as well as the use of gear (crampons and ice axes), essential skills for your future as a glaciarist !
Day 2 :
Cascade de Saint Landry.
After an hour’s walk, we arrive at the foot of one of Bonneval sur Arc’s major sites, where a number of routes varying in difficulty and size will enable us to show you how to climb a waterfall several rope pitches long, but also and above all to focus on technique.
Climbing an icefall is less brutal than you might imagine, and with a little practice in using ice axes and crampons, and in body positioning, it suddenly becomes a lot easier… and fun!
For the 3 or 4-day option :
Depending on conditions, we’ll choose a slightly longer cascade, in the Ribon valley or around Bessans.
Last day :
We’re taking it up a notch !
Always with technique and safety in mind, we’re off for one last ice climb together. Depending on your level, we may climb the famous Rébruyant waterfall in the Avérole valley, or the Châtel in Val-Cenis.
This is a beginners’ course, and you don’t need any climbing or mountaineering experience !
You’ll learn everything you need to know about equipment, safety, rope handling, etc…
The only thing you’ll need to bring with you is your motivation to climb these ephemeral and magnificent icy structures !
Price :
From 700€
Included :
Supervision by a mountain guide for the duration of the course (2 or 4 days)
Half-board accommodation
Individual, group and safety equipment (ice axes, crampons, harness, helmet, ropes and climbing gear)
Valley transport
Access to Les Barmettes private site
Not included :
Your trip to the Maurienne
Meals other than half-board
Your personal insurance
Level required :
Be in good physical condition (able to walk several hours).
Previous climbing experience is welcome but not essential.