Introduction to ice climbing in Vanoise

We meet at 8.30am at the guide office in Termignon to get to know the group and the guide. There will also be a briefing and distribution of the equipment we'll need for the next 4 days.

Once we're kitted out, we're off to discover the Bessans icefall. Located just a few metres from our gîte, this first icefall is ideal for learning the basics of top-roping ice climbing and how to use the equipment. Under the supervision of our guide, we can climb our first routes in complete safety.

At the end of the day, we'll head back to our La Turra hotel for some well-deserved relaxation. The warm welcome and typical Savoyard atmosphere will be perfect for discussing the highlights of the day over a delicious local meal.

After a good night's sleep in the hotel, we'll start the day by preparing our equipment for the day before heading off to do some ice climbing in the direction of Bessans.

We'll spend the morning perfecting our ice-climbing techniques and getting to grips with the use of the equipment, which will help us gain in confidence and ease. Under the supervision of our guide, those who wish to do so can also familiarise themselves with the use of ice screws and progression techniques.

After a well-deserved lunch break to warm up and regain our strength, we'll return to the ice in the afternoon to put into practice what we've learnt in the morning. At the end of the day, we'll head back to our hotel for a moment of relaxation and conviviality, perfect for discussing everyone's progress.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we'll put on our snowshoes for our first approach walk to a wild waterfall nestling in a remote valley. There, we'll learn how to analyse the impact of the weather on icefalls: how to assess the conditions to know if they are safe and practicable before starting to climb.

In the evening, after a convivial meal, those who wish can enjoy a unique experience by climbing the Bessans waterfall, lit up for the occasion. We'll spend the night at the gîte.

On our last day of climbing, we'll set off in search of a new natural icefall, a real gem that we'll climb one last time before the end of our stay. It's the perfect opportunity to put into practice everything we've learnt on this adventure.

We'll finish the day by returning to the guides' hut in Termignon, where we'll round off the trip with a friendly drink, an opportunity to exchange impressions and share the highlights of our time together.