Mont Blanc training course and ascent - five day
Training course that is focused on you summitting Mont Blanc
This two to three training course is followed by a three-day ascent and is for people with a high level of fitness. An unforgettable experience, to reach the summit will test the skills you have learnt along the way.
Mont Blanc, the highest peak of Europe is, without a doubt, the most breathtaking and beautiful mountain in the world and every year many mountaineers ascend this famous peak.
The ascent is a relatively simple snow route, but requires a high level of physical fitness for a long high altitude ascent! On the summit day, the ascent and descent require a full day of continuous effort! Climbing Mont-Blanc is not only hiking but Alpinism!
Training
You will be given full training in the use of crampons and ice axes at the start of the course. Some rock climbing experience is useful for non-experienced climbers. During the course, you will be taught necessary ropework and skills, how to improve your balance and the ability to move quickly and efficiently over mountain terrain.
Ascent
Day 1:
- cable car from Les Houches to Bellevue train station, then take the TMB train to Nid d’Aigle, followed by hiking to Tête Rousse mountain hut
- dinner, bed and breakfast at Tête Rousse.
Day 2:
- early start for Mont-Blanc ascent
- climb the Gouter ridge and cross the dangerous 'Gouter Corridor’ early morning when the conditions are at their best - to avoid as much as possible the risk of rock avalanches
- Mont-Blanc ascent followed by descent with a night at Gouter hut
Day 3:
- early start from Gouter hut to climb down the Gouter ridge and cross the dangerous 'Gouter Corridor’ again
- hike down to Nid D’aigle to take the TMB train to Bellevue Station, followed by gondolas to Les Houches
You will require a high level of fitness to take part in this climb!
Requirements:
- physical condition: the ascent of Mont Blanc should be taken seriously with the necessary physical training and preparation, ideally for at least two to three months prior
- experience in mountaineering (summer or winter) and experience using crampons and an ice axe is compulsory
- real mountain boots with rigid soles suitable for crampons, gaiters, harness, ice axe, crampons, helmet, head lamp, good sunglasses, high protection spf, goggles (all equipment available for rent in sports shops discounts are available through their partner shop in Chamonix).
- during the ascent you will be staying in the Goûter mountain hut, where blankets are provided, with dinner and breakfast. Don’t forget drinks, picnic, and energy bars for two days
- to make a successful ascent of Mont Blanc you need good acclimatisation, cardiovascular fitness and plenty of stamina as the summit day will involve 10-12 hours climbing at high altitude.
- prepare well in advance with five to seven whole days out in the mountains plus other regular exercise to ensure you are fully acclimatised and ready to make a summit bid
- it may be possible to ascend other summits and spend an additional night in the mountain hut at altitude to increase acclimatisation prior to the ascent of Mont Blanc
If you wish to only do the three-day ascent and skip the training, the guide in charge of the ascent will judge that the conditions of the mountains (temperatures and snow coverage) allow this ascent with good security.
What to see
Sights in Chamonix
See all Sights & Sites-
Le Brévent, Chamonix - Town
Located 1.1 km away
Brévent is the closest summer lift to the centre of Chamonix and its impressive rocky summit rises to 2,525m above sea level.
-
Parc de Merlet
Located 3.5 km away
Parc de Merlet is a great place to spot some local animals in their natural environment. A nature reserve, rather than a zoo, the park is perched on a large plateau high above Les Houches.
-
Espace Tairraz Crystal Museum
Located 3.6 km away
Discover the minerals from the Mont Blanc Valley, famous throughout the world, and learn more about the art of mountaineering.
-
Maison de la Memoire et du Patrimoine, Chamonix- Centre
Located 3.8 km away
This museum houses exhibits of Chamonix's past.
-
-
Municipal library
Located 4.0 km away
The main central library for Chamonix which houses the occasional exhibition and lectures.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Chamonix
See all Restaurants-
Restaurant Refuge de la Flégère (winter only)
Located in Chamonix
A lovely restaurant located in the Chamonix valley, the Refuge de la Flégère is a true haven for culinary delights in the heart of the mountains.
-
La Petite Cuisine Restaurant
Located in Chamonix
Situated in La Folie Douce Hotel, enjoy a delicious meal after a morning on the slopes with family or friends.
-
Stories & Beer
Located in Chamonix
Stories is a local craft beer bar and taco restaurant in Chamonix. Enjoy a slice of Mexico in France.
-
Bighorn Bistro Restaurant
Located in Chamonix
Bighorn Bistro opened its doors in 2015 with hopes of becoming a staple in the local and tourist communities with their fresh homemade food, artisanal beers and a friendly service. They did just that.
-
Pointe Isabelle Bar and Bistro Restaurant
Located in Chamonix
This tastefully refurbished restaurant and bar are right in the heart of Chamonix on the popular Avenue Michel Croz, close to the train station.
-
What to do
Things To Do in Chamonix
See all Activities & Trips-
Snowshoe Day Hikes in Chamonix
Located in Chamonix
Suitable for all abilities and tailored to your group. A perfect way to experience the mountains.
-
Tandem Paragliding
Located in Chamonix
This company's sole activity is tandem paragliding, so they are 100 % focused on you and your flight. Their fully qualified pilots have vast experience and have done 1,000s of flight in the Chamonix Valley.
-
Classic Haute Route Trek, from Chamonix
Cloud 9 Adventure is a small independent adventure travel company run by Emma Jack. They offer expert guiding services in and around Chamonix Valley and further afield.
-
Vallee Blanche Off-Piste Ski Guiding
Located in Chamonix
Trust this local team of High Mountain Guides (UIAGM), Ski and Snowboard Instructors, all of whom have the highest level of state qualifications.
-
Cinema VOX
Located in Chamonix
Chamonix's own Cinema VOX is situated right in the centre of town, slightly tucked back on the Place Balmat (main square in the centre). There are three recently refurbished screens equipped with digital 3D projectors show the latest French and International films, as well as a number of premieres and specialist mountain-sports films.
-
Teresa Kaufman Outdoor Photography Classes
Located in Chamonix
'The best photo class you will ever take', is Teresa's bold strapline for her unique photo walk classes, which take place in the incredible outdoors of the Chamonix Valley and offer an opportunity to photograph the major mountains and viewpoints.