• 3-day introduction to mountaineering in the Mont Blanc massif
  • 3-day introduction to mountaineering in the Mont Blanc massif
  • 3-day introduction to mountaineering in the Mont Blanc massif
  • 3-day introduction to mountaineering in the Mont Blanc massif
  • 3-day introduction to mountaineering in the Mont Blanc massif
  • 3-day introduction to mountaineering in the Mont Blanc massif
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc / Mont Blanc Massif - France

3-day introduction to mountaineering in the Mont Blanc massif

5/5 (3 reviews)
Réf : APRO3J

In summary

  • Sports
    Mountaineering
  • Duration
    3 days
  • Level
    Confirmed

    Levels

    Mountaineering
    Beginner
    Mountaineering is a demanding sport; consequently, there is no "beginner" physical level for it. If you have never mountaineered before, you can aim for an intermediate or advanced level.
    Intermediate
    For fit hikers who wish to experience the high mountains. No specific mountaineering skills are required; the crampon work is straightforward. Guides are on hand to provide instruction and ensure your safety. The daily elevation gain generally ranges from 700 to a maximum of 1,000 meters.
    Confirmed
    For those who engage in endurance or mountain sports (running, cycling, trail running, rock climbing, trekking, etc.) three or more times a week. You are capable of hiking for long hours in the mountains and ascending around 1,500 meters in a single day. Ideally, you have some prior high-altitude experience (such as walking in crampons), though this is not essential if you are in excellent physical condition. To aid acclimatization, it is recommended to go mountain hiking in the days leading up to the trip.
    Advanced
    For those who regularly practice endurance or mountain sports (running, cycling, trail running, rock climbing, trekking, etc.)—at least four times a week. You are capable of hiking for over eight hours in the mountains and ascending between 1,500 and 2,000 vertical meters in a single day. You have mastered crampon techniques. Prior mountaineering experience (ascents or ice training) is mandatory.
    Expert
    For those in excellent physical condition who regularly engage in mountain activities (rock climbing, mountaineering, ice climbing, etc.): you have mastered mountaineering techniques and are capable of undertaking climbs rated D or higher.
  • Destination
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc / Mont Blanc Massif - France
  • Age
    From 18 - 90 years
  • CO₂-Emissions
    14.88 kg CO2
  • Type of stay
    This group trip is perfect for travelers who want to experience a sporting adventure with other enthusiasts and be guided.
    Type of stay
    In a group
  • Languages
    French

In a few words

Immerse yourself in the heart of the Mont Blanc massif during this 3-day course, ideal for discovering the fundamentals of mountaineering and high-altitude climbing . Each day will be dedicated to ice and rock climbing , with the goal of scaling iconic peaks. Accompanied by an experienced guide , a true pillar of your learning, you will learn essential techniques for roped climbing , ensuring your safety and that of your companions on varied terrain.

This trip will allow you to master the essential fundamentals: glacier travel , crampon use, belaying techniques, and risk management at altitude. The immersive experience at the mountain refuge offers an exceptional setting to combine practical skills with a friendly atmosphere. At the end of these three days, you will be ready to participate in ascents with confidence and gain the autonomy you need for your future mountain adventures. A unique experience combining learning, pushing your limits, and discovering the breathtaking landscapes of the high mountains .

The highlights

  • A true discovery of mountaineering and climbing
  • A mountain atmosphere in cozy mountain huts
  • 3 days of learning all the basic techniques of mountaineering
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Photos

Sport

Level

Mountaineering

Confirmed

Levels

Mountaineering
Beginner
Mountaineering is a demanding sport; consequently, there is no "beginner" physical level for it. If you have never mountaineered before, you can aim for an intermediate or advanced level.
Intermediate
For fit hikers who wish to experience the high mountains. No specific mountaineering skills are required; the crampon work is straightforward. Guides are on hand to provide instruction and ensure your safety. The daily elevation gain generally ranges from 700 to a maximum of 1,000 meters.
Confirmed
For those who engage in endurance or mountain sports (running, cycling, trail running, rock climbing, trekking, etc.) three or more times a week. You are capable of hiking for long hours in the mountains and ascending around 1,500 meters in a single day. Ideally, you have some prior high-altitude experience (such as walking in crampons), though this is not essential if you are in excellent physical condition. To aid acclimatization, it is recommended to go mountain hiking in the days leading up to the trip.
Advanced
For those who regularly practice endurance or mountain sports (running, cycling, trail running, rock climbing, trekking, etc.)—at least four times a week. You are capable of hiking for over eight hours in the mountains and ascending between 1,500 and 2,000 vertical meters in a single day. You have mastered crampon techniques. Prior mountaineering experience (ascents or ice training) is mandatory.
Expert
For those in excellent physical condition who regularly engage in mountain activities (rock climbing, mountaineering, ice climbing, etc.): you have mastered mountaineering techniques and are capable of undertaking climbs rated D or higher.
For those who engage in endurance or mountain sports (running, cycling, trail running, rock climbing, trekking, etc.) three or more times a week. You are capable of hiking for long hours in the mountains and ascending around 1,500 meters in a single day. Ideally, you have some prior high-altitude experience (such as walking in crampons), though this is not essential if you are in excellent physical condition. To aid acclimatization, it is recommended to go mountain hiking in the days leading up to the trip.

In figures

Hiking

  • Average duration/day: 4h
  • Average distance/day: 6 km
  • Average daily elevation gain: 500 m

Mountaineering

  • Average duration/day: 4h30
  • Average distance/day: 9 km
  • Average daily elevation gain: 900 m
  • Average daily descent: 900 m
  • Maximum altitude: 3429 m
  • Exposed Passages: Yes

Management

During this stay, a supervisor will be present to guide and assist you.
Band : 1 supervisor for 5 to 6 people
Languages ​​spoken:
French
Supervisor

You will be accompanied by a high mountain guide who will provide you with the technical elements necessary for the smooth running of the stay.

Program

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
  • map

    First day of ice school

    • Activity Hiking
    • Duration of the activity 4h
    • Distance 6 km
    • Positive elevation gain 500 m
    • Accommodation Refuge
    • Breakfast not included
    • Lunch included
    • Dinner included

    In the morning, you'll meet your guide at the rental shop for an individual equipment fitting and a briefing. Then, you'll head towards the village of Le Tour , located 20km away (personal transport or carpooling is recommended). Once there, the ski lifts at the Col de Balme will take you up to the higher elevations. You'll reach the Albert 1er refuge , perched at 2702m altitude on the right bank of the Glacier du Tour . The afternoon will be dedicated to an introduction to snow and ice climbing techniques near the refuge.

    Day 1

Accommodation

🏔️ Mountain refuge - Days 1 to 2
  • 🏔️ Mountain refuge - Days 1 to 2
🏔️ Mountain refuge - Days 1 to 2

Access

Departure
Chamonix, France
Day 1 : 09h00
End of stay
Chamonix, France
Day 3 - 18h00

Go to the starting point

Access by train
Take the train toChamonix
Access by car
Travel to the place of stay Find out about parking options nearby
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Price details

The price includes

  1. Supervision by a high mountain guide
  2. Mixed shared dormitory accommodation
  3. Full board (except breakfast on Day 1 and dinner on Day 3)
  4. The ski lifts
  5. The collective equipment

The price does not include

  1. Individual technical equipment
  2. Drinks in mountain huts
  3. Personal expenses
  4. Individual race supplies
  5. Rental of boots, harness, helmet, crampons and ice axe if necessary

Options

  1. Flex fare and insurance

Practical information

Specific formalities

Specifics

Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).


In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.

It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.


ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.

Equipment

Equipment provided on site

Group equipment (ropes, carabiners) is provided.

Equipment to bring

  1. High mountain boots
  2. An ice axe
  3. Cleats with anti-balling plates
  4. A harness equipped with two screw-gate carabiners ( rental available )
  5. 1 pair of climbing shoes
  6. 1 helmet
  7. Quickdraws and descender
  8. A pair of gaiters
  9. A sleeping bag liner ( there are blankets in the refuge )
  10. A small toiletry bag
  11. A sunscreen cream
  12. A headlamp, with spare batteries
  13. A pocket knife
  14. A water bottle

Clothing to bring

  1. Cap
  2. Hat or cap
  3. Glacier glasses
  4. 1 pair of fleece or wool gloves
  5. 1 pair of gloves
  6. Breathable technical underwear
  7. Breathable technical base layer
  8. 1 windproof and waterproof Gore-Tex type jacket
  9. 1 pair of comfortable mountain pants
  10. 1 pair of Gore-Tex type windproof trousers
  11. 2 pairs of socks

They traveled with us

Discover the authentic experiences of our travelers
5/5
(3 reviews)
At Decathlon, the reviews are reliable.
Reviews displayed in reverse chronological order
A

Alice - 27 ans

august 2026 In a group
Translated from French
Fantastic trip! Very well organized, high level of athletic activity, lots of great memories, and a technically enriching stay.
Published on 23/08/2026
P

PASCAL - 54 ans

august 2026 In a group
Translated from French
A wonderful first mountaineering experience, safe and in an exceptional environment
Published on 18/08/2026
P

Pauline - 33 ans

july 2026 In a group
Translated from French
A fantastic discovery of mountaineering in the heart of the Alps, with Pierre, our attentive, considerate and passionate guide!
Published on 04/08/2026
DT
Decathlon Travel's response
Translated from French
Hello Pauline, What a pleasure to read your message and to know that this introduction to mountaineering was a fantastic discovery for you in the heart of the Alps! We are delighted that our local team was able to support you with such care and passion, just as Pierre did. It's wonderful to see you conquering these peaks and experiencing such intense moments. Keep aiming for the summits! The Decathlon Travel Team

They traveled with us

Discover the authentic experiences of our travelers
5/5
(3 reviews)
At Decathlon, the reviews are reliable.
Reviews displayed in reverse chronological order
A

Alice - 27 ans

august 2026 In a group
Translated from French
Fantastic trip! Very well organized, high level of athletic activity, lots of great memories, and a technically enriching stay.
Published on 23/08/2026
P

PASCAL - 54 ans

august 2026 In a group
Translated from French
A wonderful first mountaineering experience, safe and in an exceptional environment
Published on 18/08/2026
P

Pauline - 33 ans

july 2026 In a group
Translated from French
A fantastic discovery of mountaineering in the heart of the Alps, with Pierre, our attentive, considerate and passionate guide!
Published on 04/08/2026
DT
Decathlon Travel's response
Translated from French
Hello Pauline, What a pleasure to read your message and to know that this introduction to mountaineering was a fantastic discovery for you in the heart of the Alps! We are delighted that our local team was able to support you with such care and passion, just as Pierre did. It's wonderful to see you conquering these peaks and experiencing such intense moments. Keep aiming for the summits! The Decathlon Travel Team
The Alexandre team
Decathlon Travel Partner

The Alexandre team

4.5/5 (302 reviews) • 59 stays
Located in Chamonix, the world capital of mountaineering, our team will take you to the most beautiful mountains in the world. Our guides all share the same mountain philosophy, based on sharing their passion, ensuring the safety of their leaders, and maintaining their professionalism. Whether on the trails of the Alps or on the highest peaks on the planet, the role of our partner's mountaineering team is to remain constantly attentive to your needs, sharing an unforgettable and safe experience. We also want this time spent together to be a sharing of all the riches of the high altitude: the sporting riches of the action, the aesthetic riches of the landscapes and the light, and the human riches of sharing a true "Mountain Culture."
Discover their team and their trips
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