Via ferrata and mountaineering in Vanoise
In summary
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Sports
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Duration2 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationBourg-Saint-Maurice / French Alps
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AgeAccessible to all ages
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CO₂-Emissions17.68 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Embark on a journey to discover the border peaks of Italy, the Galise and the Grande Aiguille Rousse , both reaching nearly 3,500 meters, straddling the French-Italian border and perched above the Prariond refuge, which will be your base camp. For two days, you will explore breathtaking landscapes . Your adventure begins with a superb Via Ferrata near Val d'Isère on the first day, offering splendid views of the surrounding mountains. It's an excellent warm-up to start your trip. The second day will be dedicated to discovering glacial terrain and the world of mountaineering , with the ascent of the summit of the Grande Aiguille Rousse. This 3,400-meter peak is ideal for beginners in mountaineering.
The highlights
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Easy mountaineering course, accessible for beginners
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Discovering the Vanoise National Park
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The comfort of the refuge, recently renovated!
Photos
Sport
Level
Mountaineering
In figures
Mountaineering
- Average duration/day: 7h30
- Average distance/day: 20 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 1075 m
- Average daily descent: 925 m
- Maximum altitude: 3480 m
Management
Program
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Via ferrata of Val d'Isère - Refuge de Prariond
- Transportation Car - 01h - 30km
- Activity Mountaineering
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 19 km
- Positive elevation gain 950 m
- Negative elevation 650 m
- Maximum altitude 3480 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
We'll begin the day with the Roc de Tovière Via Ferrata, which offers spectacular views of the Tignes dam lake, surrounded by the imposing glaciers of the Dôme de la Sache (3,588 m) and Mont Pourri (3,779 m). This via ferrata is made up of several sections, each with increasing levels of difficulty. If you're comfortable, we can complete the entire route for a complete experience. Otherwise, we'll adjust the route according to your comfort and progress. After this exciting vertical adventure, we'll head leisurely to the Prariond refuge, which will serve as our base camp for the rest of the trip. Located at an altitude of 2,300 meters, in the heart of the Vanoise National Park, this recently renovated refuge offers all the necessary comforts for a well-deserved rest.
Day 1 -
Prariond refuge – Grande Aiguille Rousse (3482m) – Prariond refuge
- Activity Mountaineering
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Distance 20 km
- Positive elevation gain 1200 m
- Negative elevation 1200 m
- Maximum altitude 3480 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
For our first day of mountaineering, we'll set off early towards the Isère Glacier. The ascent will be quick, and we'll reach the glacier fairly soon. The route across the glacier is easy, and we'll reach the col between the Petite and Grande Aiguille Rousse by following the Normal Route. Once at the summit of the Grande Aiguille Rousse, we'll enjoy a breathtaking view of the Gran Paradiso (4,061 m) before descending back onto the glacier. Time permitting, we'll have the opportunity to practice rope techniques and participate in some snow and ice climbing instruction on the glacier.
Next, we'll traverse a small rocky ridge that will lead us either to the Col de la Lose or to some magnificent lakes, depending on your preferences and fitness level. The descent will be beautiful, taking us through alpine pastures before arriving at the refuge for the night.
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 climbing another peak in the area.
Day 2
Note
This program may be modified at the guide's discretion if mountain conditions, weather or the physical condition of the participants require it.
Accommodation
Nights spent in mountain huts , in rooms or dormitories depending on availability. Bring your own sleeping bag liner. The hut provides duvets.
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- The supervision by the UIAGM High Mountain Guide from our partner's team
- The equipment for group activities (ropes, carabiners, etc...)
- Half-board treatment at the shelter, as described in the program details
The price does not include
- Personal technical equipment: crampons, ice axe, harness and helmet
- Mountaineering boots
- Lunch, so you can eat what you want
- Race snacks and food
- Drinks
- Travel to the starting point, carpooling available
- Anything not mentioned under " Price includes "
Options
- 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 that 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 date. Consider visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to take into account 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
The equipment for group activities (ropes, carabiners, etc...)
Equipment to bring
- High-quality Gore-Tex mountaineering boots compatible with crampons (available for hire in Bourg Saint Maurice)
- Personal technical equipment: harness, crampons, ice axe and helmet
- 40L backpack.
- Walking sticks
Clothing to bring
First layer against the skin: underwear
- Thermal and breathable T-shirt (merino wool recommended)
- Thermal and breathable tights (merino wool recommended)
- Warm socks
Second layer:
- Warm and breathable technical fleece
- Windproof and waterproof mountaineering trousers
Third layer:
- Thin but warm down or fleece
Final layer:
- High-quality Gore-Tex jacket or similar, waterproof and windproof
Don't forget:
- Warm winter hat
- Neck warmer
- Warm ski gloves
- Headlamp
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle and thermos
- Sunglasses
- Mobile phone