Climb Mont Blanc
The Mont Blanc Blitz
The summit of western Europe in six days, together with some of the great classics of Chamonix on the way.
Day 1. Traverse of Aig. Crochures
We climb up to and traverse a rocky ridge at 2,800metres, moving together and learning to look after each other. We then eventually descend to the valley where we will do more technical training, including crevasse rescue techniques.
Day 2. Albert 1st Hut
All high peaks need a refuge as a starting point, so as to catch the snow when it is firm and cold. Today we move up into a hut at 2700metres, adding much needed and further acclimatisation to our bodies.
Day 3. Aig,. Du Tour/Tete Blanche
Starting at first light, we cross a large glacier and climb to the summit of Aiguille du Tour, at 3,500 metres. If conditions and timing are good, we will add in the Tete Blanche which is also the same height.
Day 4. Cosmiques Arete
Arguably one of the great routes of the Chamonix range. Ease of access, fantastic surroundings and above all, interesting climbing, make the Cosmiques one of the most-sought after routes in the Alps. The route can at times get busy, but the ambiance while on the ridge is wonderful. Has the easiest descent in the Alps.
Day 5. Gouter Hut
Using the invaluable mechanised transport Chamonix is famous for, we reach the start of our climb to Mt. Blanc. Around four to five hours will get us to the Gouter Hut at 3817metres, where we will spend the night.
Day 6. Mt Blanc
Leaving the Gouter Hut at an early hour (around 02.30) we ascend to the summit of Mont Blanc. We return the same way, only stopping at the hut for refreshments, and we continue on down and return to the valley. A long day but the hard work is over. Celebrations await us.
Contact Smiler for Dates and prices
The Mont Blanc Express
Climb to the summit of western Europe in six days
The course itinerary …
Day 1 - we cover a brief awareness of the Chamonix valley and what is intended on the course/what is possible for you in the future, then some preparation for crevasse rescue, moving together on ropes, a little technical rock climbing, all this in a safe environment, where the learning curve has to be attainable quickly.
Day 2 - is our first day at high altitude. We climb up to and traverse a rocky ridge at 2,800metres, moving together and learning to look after each other. We then eventually descend to the valley where we will do more technical training, including crevasse rescue techniques.
Day 3 - All high peaks need a refuge as a starting point, so as to catch the snow when it is firm and cold. Today we move up into a hut at 2,700metres, adding much needed and further acclimatisation to our bodies.
Day 4 - Starting at first light, we cross a large glacier and climb to the summit of Aiguille du Tour, at 3,500metres. We descend to the valley and we’re now ready for the big one!
Day 5 - Using the invaluable mechanised transport Chamonix is famous for, we reach the start of our climb to Mont Blanc. Around four to five hours will get us to the Gouter Hut at 3,817metres, where we will spend the night.
Day 6 – Leaving the Gouter Hut at an early hour (around 02.30) we ascend to the summit of Mont Blanc. We return the same way, only stopping at the hut for refreshments, and we continue on down and return to the valley. A long day but the hard work is over. Celebrations await us.
The aim of the course is to climb Mont Blanc, getting fitter and acclimatised on the way there. However, poor weather could spoil our final days and you should be prepared for a change of mountain for our final climb. Any alternative will be just as much fun and an important summit.
Adequate mountain rescue and holiday insurance is essential (e.g. BMC)
Course fees & Details
The six-day course costs £975 plus all mountain expenses.
One guide is required for every two clients on Mont Blanc.