5-day Ski touring course in Chamonix-Mont Blanc

You don't require prior ski touring experience to join me for this program. However, it is important to be reasonably fit, with a background in hiking and trekking. You should also have a good level of fitness and be ready for ski ascents lasting 2-4 hours. It's recommended that you have at least an intermediate skiing or snowboarding skill level, enabling you to navigate and descend on most "black" rated terrain.

Included in the price:

• Guiding & Tuition: You'll receive 5 days of mountain guiding and ski instruction led by an IFMGA-qualified mountain guide.

• Local Transport: Any local transportation required during your course will be covered.

• Group Equipment: Ropes, safety equipment, and other necessary gear will be provided when needed by myself

Not included in the price:

• Skis / Snowboards: The cost does not cover skis/snowboards, boots, or clothing. If you need these items and don't have your own, I can assist you in arranging rentals. Please feel free to ask me for more details.

• Personal Equipment: Please refer to the equipment list provided in the FAQ section to determine the specific gear you'll need for this 5-day ski tour.

• Insurance: It's mandatory to have travel insurance, including mountain search and rescue coverage. I highly recommend a policy that also covers the cost of medical treatment and safeguards the value of your holiday in case of cancellation. Ensure that the policy you select includes coverage for the activities and altitudes included in your itinerary.

• Food & Drink: The price does not include lunch or snacks. You can bring your own food, and we can make stops for picnics. Alternatively, there may be opportunities to purchase lunch at a mountain hut. Please ensure you carry an ample supply of water and snacks, as we will be in the mountains for extended periods.

• Travel to Chamonix: The price does not cover flights, airport transfers, or any other travel to or from Chamonix.

• Accommodation in Chamonix: Accommodation in Chamonix is not part of the package, but I would be delighted to offer advice or assistance upon request.

• Mountain Hut: One night in a mountain hut with breakfast and dinner.

• Lift Passes: To maintain flexibility, lift passes are not included in the 5-day tour. I will guide you on what lift passes are necessary on a day-to-day basis and can organize them for you.

The total cost may vary based on weather conditions and the climbs selected.

During this 5-day tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore some of Chamonix's most renowned classic ski tours, including iconic routes such as Col du Tour Noir, Crochues Berard, Col du Passon, and Col du Belvedere. Abundant ski touring terrain is easily accessible from Chamonix's primary ski areas, which encompass Brevent, Flegere, Le Tour, and Les Grands Montets. This means that you can swiftly venture into the backcountry and escape the crowds.

In addition, we'll embark on an unforgettable journey into the legendary off-piste terrain around the Aiguille du Midi. We'll traverse over to Pointe Helbronner in Italy before descending the awe-inspiring Vallee Blanche back to Chamonix. This adventure is just the beginning of a path that can lead to many more thrilling experiences in the world of ski touring.

BASE LAYER TOPS

You'll wear this every day as your first layer, so it's worth bringing a minimum of two, ensuring you always have a dry one to change into. We recommend moisture-wicking material since you'll work up a sweat on the uphills, but you'll want that moisture to evaporate to prevent freezing when you stop at the top.

INSULATED MID LAYER

You have several options here depending on your preferences, but this should be either a warm fleece or a thicker base layer item. This is one of your key insulating layers, so we recommend something comfortable and technical.

SYNTHETIC DOWN JACKET

A synthetic down jacket is handy when you need an extra layer of warmth, which can be easily removed when you're too warm. You'll also use it for evenings at the huts or when stepping outside to enjoy the night sky. Synthetic down is more breathable than feather down jackets. This jacket will likely stay in your bag during ascents but should be worn at the top and possibly for the ski down if you're in the shade.

HARDSHELL WATERPROOF JACKET

A hardshell jacket made of Gore-Tex or a similar standard is one of your essential pieces of kit. Ensure it's roomy enough to wear over multiple layers and comes with a hood. You'll use this if the weather turns rough, and you need protection from wind and snow.

LIGHTWEIGHT, DURABLE SKI TOURING PANT

You'll spend the entire week in these ski pants, so ensure they have zippers on the sides of each leg for ventilation during ascents. They must be a Hardshell of Gore-Tex or a similar standard to keep you dry and protected in all conditions.

BASE LAYER LEGGINGS

Make sure you have three-quarter length or full-leg lightweight leggings to keep you warm and cozy, especially if the forecast is particularly chilly. These are also useful for wearing in the huts.

HATS / FACE COVERINGS

Bring 1 sun cap, 1 warm hat that covers your ears, and 1 buff. The idea is to cover every part of your face if needed in bad weather.

EYEWEAR

You'll need Cat. 4 glacier sunglasses with wrap-around protection to prevent sunlight reflection off the snow. Ski goggles are also necessary and can be used when it's windy or for some of the descents.

HAND GEAR

You'll need thin yet durable soft-shell gloves for most of the ascents and thick, ideally Gore-Tex gloves for descents and cold conditions. Avoid mittens as they are often bulky and cumbersome.

BACKPACK (CAN BE RENTED)

We recommend a 30-40 liter pack, but it depends on your packing preferences and needs. The backpack must have an ice axe loop, so look for something specifically designed for mountaineering or ski mountaineering.

TOURING SKIS AND BINDINGS (CAN BE RENTED)

Ski touring skis must be lightweight, with a width between 80-105mm. You need ski touring-specific bindings fitted to the skis. If you're bringing your own setup, make sure it's professionally fitted, and you have experience using the skis and bindings.

SKI TOURING SKINS AND SKI CRAMPONS (CAN BE RENTED)

The skins adhere to the bottom of your skis to help you glide uphill, while ski crampons clip into your bindings to provide stability on steep ski touring terrain. Ski crampons are sold or rented as part of the ski touring binding. Don't mix brands, as they may not fit.

ADJUSTABLE SKI POLES (CAN BE RENTED)

Ski poles with adjustable length are useful during ascents when you may need a longer pole before shortening it for the descent. They are also handy for packing away during travel.

SKI BOOTS (CAN BE RENTED)

Lightweight ski boots are essential, as you don't want to lug heavy boots up each climb. Walk mode is a crucial function, as well as pin binding compatibility. Modern ski touring boots offer sufficient flex to make ski descents easy and enjoyable.

AVALANCHE KIT (CAN BE RENTED)

This includes a transceiver, a non-plastic shovel, and a probe. You can purchase all three as a kit or rent them locally.

ICE AXE (CAN BE RENTED)

Opt for a lightweight ski-touring ice axe.

HARNESS (CAN BE RENTED)

Harnesses can also be rented.

I am not running any open groups. You'll go on a private tour with me, which maximizes the chances of having a great and safe experience, during which you'll have the chance to improve your ski touring techniques