MOUNTAINEERING INITIATION
Maximum 5 clients per guide, but this can be reduced to 3 depending on the course and mountain conditions.
You should be comfortable in mountain walking and varied terrain. Easy crampons walking on glacier.
If you have already done a glacier hike it is better but it is not mandatory: if you have good shape and good mental handling, you should have no problem.
Learning of hiking progression in High Mountain, for rather easy races and easy rescue techniques.
Example of level: an easy 4000, such as Gran Paradiso (4061 mt) - Gran Paradiso National Park
Physical lev. : 4 / 5
Physical lev. : 4 / 5
For trained sporty people, you master the sport activity of the trip you buy! Effort corresponding to approximately 1200 - 1700m of elevation gain in trekking.
2 days
Participants : max 4
From mid June to mid September
Hut not included
Situated between the Aosta Valley and Piemonte, the Gran Paradiso is the highest alpine summit completely inside the Italian border, within the first Italian National Park.
MOUNTAINEERING INITIATION
Maximum 5 clients per guide, but this can be reduced to 3 depending on the course and mountain conditions.
You should be comfortable in mountain walking and varied terrain. Easy crampons walking on glacier.
If you have already done a glacier hike it is better but it is not mandatory: if you have good shape and good mental handling, you should have no problem.
Learning of hiking progression in High Mountain, for rather easy races and easy rescue techniques.
Example of level: an easy 4000, such as Gran Paradiso (4061 mt) - Gran Paradiso National Park
Physical lev. : 4.5 / 5
Physical lev. : 4.5 / 5
Intermediate level, between 4 and 5. Effort corresponding to approximately 1400m - 2000m of elevation.
2 days
Participants : 3 to 5
from End of June to September
All inclusive in Mountain Hut
Mountaineering course - Monte Rosa climbing
We propose to you a route that never ceases to fascinate, through fabulous landscapes and prestigious summits in the Monte Rosa, a massif that rivals the Mont Blanc for its beauty and magnificence. The Punta Gnifetti (Signalkuppe), with its 4454 m, is the highest summit in Europe that is...
FAIRLY EASY MOUNTAINEERING
5 clients maximum per Guide but the number can be reduced to 3 people depending on the routes and mountain conditions.
You should be comfortable walking in the mountains and on varied terrain. Easy climbing.
If you have already done a glacier trek, it is better, but not compulsory, if you have a good physical and mental condition.
Learning the techniques of progression in the high mountains, for fairly easy routes and easy rescue techniques.
Example of level: an easy 4000, such as Gran Paradiso (4061 mt) - Gran Paradiso National Park
Physical lev. : 4 / 5
Physical lev. : 4 / 5
SPORTY & TRAINED PEOPLE
Effort corresponding to approximately 1200 - 1700m of ascent per day.
You like and practice endurance sports at a good level.
2 days & 1 Nights
Participants : 4
From mid July to mid September
All inclusive
You dream of discovering the High Mountain, its glaciers and its exceptional panoramas.
You leave for Italy in the Rhêmes Notre Dames valley to do a Via Ferrata, then it's off to climb the Grand Paradis at 4061m in the Valsavarenche valley in the heart of the Val d'Aoste in Italy, just a stone's throw from the south side of Mont Blanc!
MOUNTAINEERING INITIATION
Maximum 5 clients per guide, but this can be reduced to 3 depending on the course and mountain conditions.
You should be comfortable in mountain walking and varied terrain. Easy crampons walking on glacier.
If you have already done a glacier hike it is better but it is not mandatory: if you have good shape and good mental handling, you should have no problem.
Learning of hiking progression in High Mountain, for rather easy races and easy rescue techniques.
Example of level: an easy 4000, such as Gran Paradiso (4061 mt) - Gran Paradiso National Park
Physical lev. : 4.5 / 5
Physical lev. : 4.5 / 5
SPORT VERY WELL TRAINED
Effort corresponding to 1500m - 2000m of ascent in hiking.
You like and regularly practice endurance sports at a good level.
4 days & 3 nights
Participants : 3 to 4 max
From June to September
All Included
Starting from the king of the Gran Paradiso National Park to end with the climb of the Capanna Margherita, Europe highest mountain hut at 4554 mt on the well known Signalkuppe or Punta Gnifetti.
The Vanoise is the Easy Mountaineering Paradise for beginners who would like to try the thrill of walking on glaciers, with beautiful landscapes on the background at the heart of the Vanoise National Park.
MOUNTAINEERING INITIATION
Maximum 5 clients per guide, but this can be reduced to 3 depending on the course and mountain conditions.
You should be comfortable in mountain walking and varied terrain. Easy crampons walking on glacier.
If you have already done a glacier hike it is better but it is not mandatory: if you have good shape and good mental handling, you should have no problem.
Learning of hiking progression in High Mountain, for rather easy races and easy rescue techniques.
Example of level: an easy 4000, such as Gran Paradiso (4061 mt) - Gran Paradiso National Park
Physical lev. : 4 / 5
Physical lev. : 4 / 5
For trained sporty people. Effort corresponding to approximately 1200 - 1700m of elevation gain in trekking.
For mountaineering: even if the vertical drop is less significant, staying at high altitude will have a significant effect on your usual physical performance.
1 day
Participants : 4 to 5 pax
from Mid June to end of September
Extra expenses not included
The Western Breithorn is part of the alpine ridge of the Monte Rosa chain.
It is generally considered to be one of the easiest 4000 peaks in the Alps, but by no means does that mean it is in any way less beautiful!
MOUNTAINEERING INITIATION
Maximum 3 depending on the course and mountain conditions.
You should be comfortable in mountain walking and varied terrain. Easy crampons walking on glacier.
If you have already done a glacier hike it is better but it is not mandatory: if you have good shape and good mental handling, you should have no problem.
Learning of hiking progression in High Mountain, for rather easy races and easy rescue techniques.
Example of level: an easy 4000, such as Gran Paradiso (4061 mt) - Gran Paradiso National Park
Physical lev. : 4 / 5
Physical lev. : 4 / 5
For trained sporty people. Effort corresponding to approximately 1200 - 1700m of elevation gain in trekking.
For mountaineering: even if the vertical drop is less significant, staying at high altitude for several days will have a significant effect on your usual physical performance.
2 days
Participants : max 3
Mid June mid September
All included in hut
One of the twin names coming from the classic mythology symbolizing friendship: Castor & Pollux are two beautiful twin peaks bounded by their eternal closeness.
MOUNTAINEERING INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
Maximum 2 people per Guide.
You have experience in mountaineering and hiking and you have already made an ascent at altitude.
You are comfortable with crampons walking and at ease on hiking on glacier, you can manage a rope on easy routes at altitude.
Possible learning of more complex techniques: rescue, weather forecast and cartography (GPS)… Level example: Lyskam Nose (4272 mT) - Monte Rosa Massif
Physical lev. : 4 / 5
Physical lev. : 4 / 5
SPORT TRAINED
Effort corresponding to approximately 1200 - 1700m of ascent per day.
For mountaineering: even if the vertical drop is less significant, staying at high altitude for several days will have a significant effect on your usual physical performance.
You like and practice endurance sports at a good level.
4 days & 3 nights
Participants : max 2
End of June to end of July for Best Conditions
All inclusive in hut
Spaghetti Tour is a week that should be on every mountaineer’s bucket list. It’s a trip that never disappoints and it will probably have you coming back to get some more…
CONFIRMED MOUNTAINEERING
2 clients per guide maximum.
You have experience in mountaineering and have already climbed at altitude. You are autonomous and master the activity, you can manage a rope on an easy route in the high mountains.
You will learn complex techniques: rescue, weather and cartography (GPS)...
A mountaineering rating may be used in addition.
Physical lev. : 5 / 5
Physical lev. : 5 / 5
SPORT HIGH LEVEL
You are experienced in the sport activity of the purchased trip!
Effort corresponding to 1700 - 2500 meters of ascent in hiking per day, you are obliged to run or to do 12-hour days.
You are a highly trained and fit athlete at the moment.
3 days & 2 nights
Participants : max 2
Mid June mid September
All inclusive in Mountain Hut
The highest peak of Europe over Italy and France represents the acme of a mountain range not too large (only 18 km its development)...
CONFIRMED MOUNTAINEERING
2 clients per guide maximum.
You have experience in mountaineering and have already climbed at altitude. You are autonomous and master the activity, you can manage a rope on an easy route in the high mountains.
You will learn complex techniques: rescue, weather and cartography (GPS)...
Example of level: Lyskam Nose (4272 m) - Massif du Mont Rose
A mountaineering rating may be used in addition.
Physical lev. : 4.5 / 5
Physical lev. : 4.5 / 5
SPORT VERY WELL TRAINED
Effort corresponding to 1500m - 2000m of ascent in hiking.
You practice endurance sports at a very good level.
3 days & 2 nights
Participants : 2 max
July & August
All included in mountain hut
The Weissmies (4017 mt) and the Alphubel (4206 mt): these two mountaineering climbs are a must! This program is designed for those who already have some experience in mountaineering. This mountaineering program will lead you to the discovery of the Mischabels Massif, starting from Saas Grund and Saas Fee.
MOUNTAINEERING INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
Maximum 2 people per Guide.
You have experience in mountaineering and hiking and you have already made an ascent at altitude.
You are comfortable with crampons walking and at ease on hiking on glacier, you can manage a rope on easy routes at altitude.
Possible learning of more complex techniques: rescue, weather forecast and cartography (GPS)…
Level example: Lyskamm Nose (4272 mT) - Monte Rosa Massif
Physical lev. : 4.5 / 5
Physical lev. : 4.5 / 5
Intermediate level, between 4 and 5. Effort corresponding to approximately 1400m - 2000m of elevation.
4 days
Participants : max 2
June to September
All inclusive in Mountain Hut
The Mont Blanc
An ambitious summit for mountaineers from all over the world, the ascent of Mont-Blanc is a magical summit with a unique view of the Alps.
This summit at nearly 5000 meters above sea level requires serious physical preparation and acclimatization to have fun and evolve safely in this high mountain universe where the weather can change quickly...
MOUNTAINEERING INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
Maximum 2 people per Guide.
You have experience in mountaineering and hiking and you have already made an ascent at altitude.
You are comfortable with crampons walking and at ease on hiking on glacier, you can manage a rope on easy routes at altitude.
Possible learning of more complex techniques: rescue, weather forecast and cartography (GPS)… Level example: Lyskam Nose (4272 mT) - Monte Rosa Massif
Physical lev. : 4.5 / 5
Physical lev. : 4.5 / 5
SPORT VERY WELL TRAINED
Effort corresponding to 1500m - 2000m of ascent in hiking.
You like and regularly practice endurance sports at a good level.
2 days & 1 night
Participants : 2 max
from mid June to September
A very aesthetic glacial route that evolves along the normal route on the northeast ridge, the ascent of the Nadelhorn is one of the most beautiful mountaineering races in the Swiss Alps and the Wallis valley, at the heart of the Mischabels range and of the Saastal. A demanding climb but of unforgettable beauty!
Climbing Mont Blanc in 6 days.
This mountaineering course will take you to the discovery of the Gran Paradiso and the Monte Rosa, for an ideal training and acclimatisation to the high altitude to be ready to climb Mont Blanc at the end of the week!
MOUNTAINEERING INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
Maximum 2 people per Guide.
You have experience in mountaineering and hiking and you have already made an ascent at altitude.
You are comfortable with crampons walking and at ease on hiking on glacier, you can manage a rope on easy routes at altitude.
Possible learning of more complex techniques: rescue, weather forecast and cartography (GPS)…
Level example: Lyskam Nose (4272 mT) - Monte Rosa Massif
Physical lev. : 4.5 / 5
Physical lev. : 4.5 / 5
Intermediate level, between 4 and 5. Effort corresponding to approximately 1400m - 2000m of elevation.
2 days
Participants : max 2
Mid June to beginning of September
All inclusive
Pollux (4084 mt) is the second of the two Twins in the massif of Monte Rosa.
Compared to "Castor", which has an higher altitude (mt 4.221), the ascension is certainly more demanding.
MOUNTAINEERING INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
Maximum 2 people per Guide.
You have experience in mountaineering and hiking and you have already made an ascent at altitude.
You are comfortable with crampons walking and at ease on hiking on glacier, you can manage a rope on easy routes at altitude.
Possible learning of more complex techniques: rescue, weather forecast and cartography (GPS)…
Level example: Lyskam Nose (4272 mT) - Monte Rosa Massif
Physical lev. : 4 / 5
Physical lev. : 4 / 5
For trained sporty people, you master the sport activity of the trip you buy!
Effort corresponding to approximately 1200 - 1700m of elevation gain in trekking.
For mountaineering: even if the vertical drop is less significant, staying at high altitude for several days will have a significant effect on your usual physical performance.
2 days
Participants : max 2
Mid June mid September
All inclusive
Schneedomsptize, better known as the Lyskamm Nose, is part of the Monte Rosa Massif, along the Swiss-Italian border between Gressoney and Zermatt.
The Lyskamm Nose is known as one of the most beautiful ridges in the Alps.
The glaciers of Tour and Trient are between 2800 and 3600 m of altitude, you will discover the thrill of High Altitude environments without having the fatigue of 4000 mt.
We discover mountaineering in the Vanoise, the Paradise of Easy Mountaineering at the Dôme de la Sache (3588m) to then end the week at the Dôme des Glaciers (3592m) to the southern end of Mont Blanc. The view on Mont Blanc is breathtaking!
From1050
The most beautiful Mountaineering Tours in the Alps
Mountaineerng in the Alps for every level: take your chance to live an unforgettable experience and discover some of the most beautiful 4000 summits in the Alps!
Discover our introductory mountaineering courses:
During our introductory mountaineering courses, you will discover the high mountains in a small group. This is a collective formula that allows you to meet other mountain enthusiasts and share good times. If you wish to have a private commitment to progress quickly on a specific point, contact us to discuss it. We will build your tailor-made mountaineering programme in the mountain range of your choice between France, Italy and Switzerland.
Our beginner mountaineering programmes are for people who already have some experience of the high mountains, you will do an ice school to learn crevasse rescue techniques and then do more technical or physical summits than on the beginner programmes.
Chamonix is the cradle of mountaineering, we offer courses and ascents to improve your climbing techniques with the supervision of one of our team of mountain guides in the Chamonix valley.
Our organisation takes care of booking accommodation in good hotels in the valley and in mountain refuges as well as the lifts so that you can rest easy during your group or private trip.
What is Mountaineering?
Mountaineering is a sporting practice that was born in the Alps, it consists of climbing the Alps Mountains using a progression technique. Mountaineers have been practicing this sporting activity since the conquest of Mont Blanc in 1786 by Jacques Balmat, the first Alpine Ascent was carried out on June 26, 1946 at Mont Aiguille on the Order of the King of France Charles VIII.
Mountaineering, a sport activity in the mountains
The Techniques of Progressions and the Equipment of Mountaineering never stop evolving since to discover the mountains and the freedom to climb in the mountains in the Alps or in any other mountainous regions of the world.
Esprit Montagne is a Mountain Sports Travel Agency that works with a team of local Mountain Guides with from France, Switzerland and Italy!
Let yourself be guided by an experienced team, who will take you to the mountains with strong values so that everyone in the mountains can live and work in good conditions!
Esprit Montagne builds Mountaineering Stays and Mountaineering Ascents in Switzerland, Italy and France.
The Esprit Montagne Guides Team works at the heart of the Alps with a small team of experienced and passionate mountain professionals, they will take you off the classic paths to enjoy the Great Spaces of the Alpine Arch!
We favor beautiful summits and beautiful refuges to get out of crowded and overcrowded routes when you trust us for a Mountaineering course in Vanoise or Ruitor for example!
Our Mountain Guides
The Mountain Guides are Professionals who have a great experience of the Mountain and a high technical level, the entry into Training is very difficult, with the passing of a probationary exam, or the candidates must achieve High Level Performances In Skiing both uphill and downhill, in Varied terrain, then the selection continues in Rock and Ice Climbing. When these climbers have passed the tests, Guides Examiners check their list of mountain races (about 60 races ranging from difficult to very difficult) and their knowledge during a long interview.
Then the Training begins, a year in which the trainings are linked for many months then here is the Aspiring Guide Diploma and the possibility of working for 5 years to carry out numerous mountain races with Customers.
Then new training courses to pass the High Mountain Guide Exam with a new list of races.
The Mountain Guide in hand, your Guide continues every six years to retrain to learn new rescue techniques or theory on mountain safety.
The personal investment and the risk of this profession are quite extraordinary, he will put all his knowledge and strength to take you to the mountains and make you discover this environment while keeping a safety margin to return to the valley with beautiful memories and shared moments. It is he who gives the signal to return, by explaining to you the risks that the mountain places in your path today.
A Guide is not an all-risk insurance, but allows you to learn the mountain, they allow you to increase safety thanks to their experiences, technical and physical capacities ...
An International Standard exists with the International Union of Mountain Guides (UIAGM).
Mountain refuges
In the Mountains there is a place of sharing and shelter that everyone appreciates, some are comforts others very basic, but the heat has always increased tenfold like the dishes that the Guardians of Refuge prepare, they are better when valley!
It is a place of meeting and sharing, where mountain practitioners discuss the conditions, the best routes, the weather forecast for the next day to choose an route suited to the conditions of the Mountain and the level of the Group!
A place of rest where you can take advantage of the weather, the mountains and friends, a real haven of peace for Mountain Lovers!
Mountaineering equipment
Mountaineering equipment and constantly improving, the Conquerors of Freedom (or the useless) always have a huge imagination, the equipment is always more and more light and strong, demanding standards verify the Strength of Ropes, Ice axes, Crampons, Carabiners and Helmets. These are PPE (personal protective equipment). The Alpinists regularly check their equipment and the rules to evolve safely.
Your Guides will help you adjust your equipment and you will find information about the equipment for each mountaineering race or course!
Weather in Mountaineering
Mountain Weather is one of the first forms of security, before going to the mountains, the Alpinists study it, on the Météo France website or on other weather websites. In the mountains the analysis must be fine, we cannot
