Course Objectives

By the end of the course, you will:

• move confidently on alpine rock, snow, and easy mixed terrain
• understand rope management and transitions
• use protection: cams, nuts, slings, pitons, snow anchors
• build solid anchors and belay safely
• climb efficiently in a rope team
• understand alpine hazards and how to manage them
• apply tactics: pacing, route choice, time management, decision-making

Sample Program (adapted to your level & conditions)

Day 1 — Introduction & Movement Skills

• review of basic climbing and crampon techniques
• rope management and knots
• movement on easy alpine rock (Aiguilles Rouges)
• planning objectives for the week

Typical routes: Aiguilles Rouges multi-pitch climbs.

Day 2 — Multi-Pitch Rock & Transitions

• multi-pitch climbing fundamentals
• anchor building
• efficient transitions and changeovers
• descent techniques (rappelling, downclimbing)

Possible routes:

• Aiguille de l’Index
• Aiguille du Belvédère

Day 3 — Ridge Traverse

Classic alpine ridge to train exposure, rhythm, and ropework.
Options:

• Aiguilles Crochues Traverse
• Aiguille d’Entrèves

Focus: moving together, short-rope technique, route finding.

Day 4 — Snow & Mixed Terrain

Depending on conditions:

• crampon technique on snow and névé
• introduction to mixed climbing
• placing protection on snow/ice
• risk assessment on alpine terrain

Possible areas: Montenvers, Aiguille du Midi.

Day 5 — Full Alpine Route

A bigger objective to consolidate all skills.
Possible routes:

• Petite Aiguille Verte (PD+)
• Pointe Lachenal Traverse
• Aiguille du Tour (PD+)

Day 6 (optional)

Advanced technique day or an additional route.
Possible goals:

• longer ridge traverses
• more technical mixed ground (if conditions allow)
• progression toward AD-level routes

Price
€2300 (5 days program) + €450 extra day
(Equipment rental, cable cars, huts, and meals are paid separately.)

Who This Course Is For

• beginners wanting a safe and structured introduction to alpine climbing
• rock climbers transitioning to the mountains
• alpinists preparing for peaks like Mont Blanc, Matterhorn, Weissmies, etc.
• anyone wanting to improve technique and gain experience on real alpine terrain

Equipment
Technical gear can be rented easily in Chamonix.
I will help you choose the appropriate equipment for the course.