From Monte Rosa to Mont Blanc, mountaineering on the roof of Europe

The second day is dedicated to the ascent of Pollux , an iconic peak reaching 4,091 meters. At dawn, the climb begins with a rocky step before reaching the fixed cable section at around 3,980 meters. This technical section opens onto the magnificent snow-covered ridge that leads directly to the summit of Pollux. The panoramic view is exceptional, encompassing the entire Monte Rosa massif . This ascent involves approximately 1,050 meters of elevation gain and 700 meters of descent, for a full day of 7 to 8 hours, with return and overnight stay at the Guides d'Ayas refuge (Lambronecca hut, at 3,420 m). Depending on the weather and the participants' fatigue levels, the guide may conduct an ice climbing session in the afternoon to further develop cramponing and rope handling skills.

The program is provided as a guideline and may be modified depending on weather conditions or the group's physical condition. The guide may suggest alternatives, such as an ice climbing school day or the ascent of another peak in the area.

On the third day, the objective is Castor, another major peak of Monte Rosa, reaching 4,228 meters. After an early start, the ascent begins on the Verra Glacier before reaching the base of the northwest face. This glacial slope, ranging from 45 to 50 degrees, is traversed in long zigzags until reaching the thin and elegant summit ridge, which leads to the top of Castor. The descent then continues towards the Quintino Sella refuge, where a break allows for rest and refueling, before reaching the Bettaforca pass to catch the cable car back down to Frachey. In total, this day represents approximately 825 meters of ascent and 1,550 meters of descent, over a duration of 7 to 8 hours.

This mountaineering course on Monte Rosa, including the ascent of Pollux and Castor, is a unique experience that combines the discovery of two peaks over 4,000 meters high with total immersion in the high mountains. It also provides excellent technical and physical preparation for later attempting the ascent of Mont Blanc as part of a comprehensive Mont Blanc course.

Overnight stay in accommodation of your choice.

After two days at altitude, this day will be dedicated to rest before the final ascent of Mont Blanc . You are free to arrange your own accommodation as you see fit.

Meet at 12:30 in Les Houces (Chamonix) or Saint Gervais le Fayet with the mountain guide , to take the Bellevue cable car and then the cog railway. or take the Mont Blanc Tramway directly to the Nid d'Aigle at 2,300 m . From there, a 3-4 hour hike will take you to the Tête Rousse glacier . Dinner and overnight stay at the Tête Rousse refuge, at 3,167 m.

The program is provided as a guideline and may be modified depending on weather conditions or the group's physical condition. The guide may suggest alternatives, such as an ice climbing school day or the ascent of another peak in the area.

The departure from the Tête Rousse refuge will be very early to cross the glacier of the same name and reach the Goûter couloir . The ascent continues over rocky terrain to the Aiguille du Goûter , then to the Goûter refuge for a short break. Next, you will climb the Dôme du Goûter to the Cabane Vallot , before tackling the famous Arête des Bosses , which is more or less technical depending on the conditions. The second slope, technically easier, will be made difficult by fatigue and altitude.

You'll need all your motivation to climb the final ridge leading to the summit of Mont Blanc . At the top, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the Western Alps , take photos, and savor this moment of collective achievement. After the descent, you'll spend the night at the Goûter refuge , at 3,835 meters , enjoying the exceptional view.

Please note : depending on availability, you may sleep at the Goûter refuge or at Tête Rousse . Dinner and overnight stay at the Goûter refuge.

The program is provided as a guideline and may be modified depending on weather conditions or the group's physical condition. The guide may suggest alternatives, such as an ice climbing school day or the ascent of another peak in the area.

Starting from the Gouter refuge , you will descend the Aiguille du Gouter at dawn, taking advantage of the overnight freeze to minimize the risk of rockfall. You will quickly reach the Tête Rousse refuge , then continue your descent along the same path taken 48 hours earlier, towards the Nid d'Aigle .

From there, you will take the Mont Blanc Tramway to reach Les Houches or Saint Gervais Le Fayet , where you can celebrate your successful ascent of the roof of Europe.

The program is provided as a guideline and may be modified depending on weather conditions or the group's physical condition. The guide may suggest alternatives, such as an ice climbing school day or the ascent of another peak in the area.