Discover Mountain Climbing in the Chamonix Valley

We will meet at 9 a.m. at the Gaillands climbing site, an iconic location in Chamonix and the perfect place for a first encounter with vertical terrain. Located just a stone’s throw from our accommodation, this natural cliff offers an ideal setting to review the fundamentals of climbing safety before we move on to more committing ascents in the high mountains.

We will begin with a refresher on essential techniques: climbing and downclimbing progression, footwork management, and learning to abseil in mountaineering boots to better adapt to real alpine conditions. Time will also be dedicated to learning how to belay both a lead climber and a second an essential skill for ensuring safety and smooth progress during upcoming climbs.

Before applying these skills on the rock, we’ll take time to practice rope handling and refine our tying-in techniques. We'll also get an introduction to aid climbing by learning how to correctly place removable protection (nuts and cams), which will be vital for routes in more adventurous terrain.

Once these solid foundations are in place, we’ll enjoy our first evening in Chamonix, the legendary mountaineering town. Between the mountain ambiance, exchanges with fellow climbers, and immersion in this unique culture, it will be the perfect time to mentally prepare for the challenges ahead—while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the world capital of alpinism.

We’ll begin our day with a journey aboard the legendary Montenvers cogwheel train. Frozen in time, this historic train operating since 1910 climbs steep slopes with the help of its unique gear mechanism. Upon reaching an altitude of 1,913 meters, we’ll be treated to a breathtaking first panorama, with direct views of iconic peaks such as the Grandes Jorasses and the Grands Charmoz.

From the station, we’ll descend toward the Mer de Glace, where we’ll look for a suitable area to learn crampon techniques. This will be the perfect opportunity to discover and master various methods of moving efficiently on ice an essential skill for safe glacier travel and for accessing alpine routes.

Through exercises focused on footwork, managing slope angles, and improving balance, this stage is a key step toward becoming autonomous in the high mountains. In this majestic and ever-changing environment, every movement matters, and this introduction will help us better understand the fascinating world of glaciers before we take on more technical terrain.

Departing from Chamonix, this day will be a true immersion into the world of high mountains, combining rock climbing with snow approaches. The objective is twofold: to refine safety techniques on snow and to put into practice the ropework and protection skills learned the day before.

In the morning, we’ll take the Brévent cable car up to the mid-station, where our ascent begins. After climbing 500 meters of elevation, we’ll reach the first snow slopes ideal for a snow school session. Here, we’ll learn how to arrest a fall, master the use of an ice axe, and perfect techniques for stopping a slide.

The ascent will then continue on a rocky route, where we’ll apply the basics of moving as a roped team, placing protection, and managing belays. This varied terrain offers a great opportunity to experience the technical demands and commitment required in alpine climbing.

Throughout the climb, we’ll be accompanied by panoramic views over the Chamonix valley and the Mont Blanc massif an absolutely breathtaking backdrop to our progress.

At the summit, we’ll take time to admire the landscape before starting our descent, once again applying safety techniques to move efficiently across mixed terrain.

Departing from Chamonix, we’ll head toward the village of Le Tour, where we’ll take the Charamillon gondola to quickly gain altitude. From there, we’ll begin our ascent toward the Albert 1er Hut, passing by the Bec du Picheu.

With around 900 meters of elevation gain and an approach of about three hours, we’ll move through a stunning landscape, alternating between rocky trails and possible snowfields depending on conditions. As we ascend, the Tour Glacier and the surrounding peaks of the Mont Blanc massif will gradually reveal themselves.

We’ll arrive at the Albert 1er Hut (2,702 m), perched above the Tour Glacier. This is a legendary spot in the Mont Blanc range, built in honor of King Albert I of Belgium, a passionate alpinist. The hut offers a true immersion in the high mountains without the need for glacier equipment and serves as a starting point for iconic climbs such as the Aiguille du Tour, the Chardonnet, the Grande Fourche, and the Aiguille d’Argentière.

Its exceptional location provides breathtaking views of many of the massif’s legendary peaks, including the Mont Blanc range and the Aiguilles Rouges. We’ll enjoy a warm, communal meal here, surrounded by the unique atmosphere of the hut, where climbers and hikers share their experiences and ambitions. As the sun sets and lights up the surrounding summits, it will be the perfect moment to take in the glowing peaks before settling into the dormitories for a good night’s rest ahead of the next day’s challenges.

At dawn, we will leave the Albert 1er Hut for an alpine climb tailored to the conditions and the group’s level. The objective is an ambitious one: to reach a summit by navigating glacial and mixed terrain.

Several route options will be available depending on the day’s conditions and the group’s progress: Tête Blanche, Petite Fourche, or other nearby peaks. This ascent will be the perfect opportunity to apply the ropework, movement techniques, and energy management skills developed over the previous days.

With 800 meters of elevation gain, we will gradually climb higher, enjoying the sunrise as it lights up the peaks of the Mont Blanc massif. Once at the summit, the view will be spectacular: a panoramic outlook over the Tour Glacier, the Aiguilles Rouges, and the towering alpine summits straddling France and Switzerland.

After a moment of awe and satisfaction, we will begin the descent a demanding stage with 1,700 meters of elevation loss. We will move across the glacier, then return through moraines and rocky trails leading back to the Charamillon gondola, marking the end of this intense and unforgettable alpine adventure.