First steps in mountaineering to the summit of Mont Aiguille
In summary
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Sports
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Duration3 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationVercors Massif / Isère
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AgeFrom 18 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions24.5 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Embark on a gradual introduction to mountaineering in the heart of the wild Vercors , starting from the unspoiled hamlet of La Richardière. This three-day trip guides you step by step in learning essential techniques: rock climbing , mastering independent rappelling , and progressing on a via ferrata to safely experience exposure to heights.
Each day prepares you for an iconic goal: the ascent of Mont Aiguille , a summit steeped in history. Accompanied by a high-mountain guide , you progress roped together to its summit plateau, discovering the unique sensations of verticality.
At the summit, a spectacular panorama of the Alps rewards your efforts. This trip offers a comprehensive first experience, combining technical training , pushing your limits, and high-altitude adventure – ideal for a gentle introduction to the world of high mountains.
The highlights
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Mont Aiguille, a mythical peak and the cradle of mountaineering
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Discover mountaineering with cliff climbing, via ferrata and final ascent
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A unique panoramic view of the Écrins, the Chartreuse and Mont Blanc mountains
Photos
Sport
Level
Mountaineering
The expert's opinion
- You do endurance sports for at least 2 hours per week.
- You can walk for 4 to 6 hours with 600 to 900m of elevation gain.
- Are you comfortable carrying a bag weighing 5 to 8 kg?
- You are not prone to vertigo (climbing + rappelling)
- You already have some experience hiking in the mountains
In figures
Mountaineering
- Average duration/day: 7h
Via ferrata
- Average duration/day: 6h
Management
A passionate mountaineer, I discovered rock climbing in the Bouches-du-Rhône region before immersing myself in ski touring in the Écrins mountains. Since then, I've explored various mountain ranges, from Mont Blanc to Dévoluy, seeking enjoyment and shared experiences. For me, the mountains represent the desire to experience human adventures and to accomplish projects together.
Program
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First steps in climbing at the foot of Mont Aiguille
- Activity Mountaineering
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Accommodation Cottage
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Meet in the morning to get acquainted with your guide and the rest of the group. After a presentation of the equipment and safety instructions , you head to a nearby climbing site .
This first day is dedicated to discovering rock climbing . You will learn how to move on the rock , manage your balance , and perform your first rope maneuvers . You will also be introduced to rappelling , with the goal of gradually gaining independence.
At the end of the day, you return to your comfortable accommodation at the foot of Mont Aiguille . You settle in before sharing a convivial dinner facing the summit, in a relaxed atmosphere conducive to conversation with the group.
Day 1 -
Via ferrata and advanced climbing
- Activity Via ferrata
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Accommodation Cottage
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast , you head towards the Agnielles gorges for a day dedicated to via ferrata . The route takes you through varied sections : aerial traverses, progression on ledges , more vertical sections and passage through a cave , before finishing with a rappel .
The afternoon is dedicated to resuming rock climbing to consolidate your technical skills . You refine your movements and gain confidence on the rock, accompanied by your guide.
At the end of the day, you return to the lodge to enjoy some rest. Dinner is shared with the group in a relaxed atmosphere, before you prepare for the climb the next day.
Day 2 -
Ascent of Mont Aiguille
- Activity Mountaineering
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Early departure for the objective of the stay: the ascent of Mont Aiguille . After an approach walk , you begin the roped ascent on the mountain routes, accompanied by your guide .
You will follow a route combining easy climbing and safe progression, all the way to the summit at 2,087m . The ascent is made at your own pace, applying the techniques learned in the previous days.
At the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. The descent is made by rappelling , in a striking alpine atmosphere that extends the experience.
You return to the valley at the end of the day, marking the end of this stay .
Day 3
Note
Walking and activity times are given as a guide and may vary depending on the weather and the pace of the group.
Accommodation
Mountain cottage with a warm atmosphere, offering a spectacular view of Mont Aiguille.
Access
We'll meet at 9am in Chichilianne.
Go to the starting point
It is possible to travel by train to Grenoble station. From there, you will need to take a connecting train to Clelles station where we will pick you up and take you to the meeting point.
It is possible to park on site and leave your car there for the duration of your stay.
Price details
The price includes
- The trip will be supervised by a UIAGM high-mountain guide.
- Mountain lodge accommodation with spectacular views of Mont Aiguille
- Full board from dinner on Day 1 to picnic lunch on Day 3
- Technical equipment: harness, helmet, rope, quickdraws, lanyards, Reverso...
The price does not include
- The round trip to the meeting point
- Your climbing shoes: you will need to bring your own climbing shoes
- Day 1 picnic
- Any personal consumption
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Additional night before the stay : CHF123.50 / unit
- Additional night after the stay : CHF123.50 / unit
- 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
- Whether it's for climbing, via ferrata or for the ascent of Mont Aiguille, all the technical equipment will be provided by Thibaut (harness, helmet, rope, quickdraws, lanyards, Reverso, etc.)
Equipment to bring
- Your climbing shoes: you will need to bring your own climbing shoes
The Marie team
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- You pay a 30% deposit today to reserve your stay.
- The balance (the remaining 70%) must be paid no later than 30 days before departure.
- ✅ Of an amount greater than €300.
- ✅ Whose departure is in more than 30 days.