Courses
Chamonix Alpine Skills
Want to get mountain ready? Ever fancied tackling some of the most iconic mountains out there like the Matterhorn, Eiger or Monte Rosa? If so then this is the course for you. Think rope work, belaying, crampons, glaciers and crevasse rescue. A great place to improve on your mountaineering skills.
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Duration
4 Nights
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Start Location
Chamonix, France
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Date(s)
June - September
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Price
From €
Adventure Snapshot
VIEW GALLERY
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+ 6
LEARN MOUNTAINEERING TECHNIQUES IN CHAMONIX
Based in Chamonix, at the foot of Mont Blanc, this course will cover alpine rock climbs and scrambles while learning appropriate rope work and belaying skills. You will also spend time in the high glaciated mountains of the Mont Blanc massif, taking in quality peaks while we learn appropriate crampon, rope and crevasse rescue techniques.
By the end of the trip you will feel confident in the high mountains and ready to tackle your next mountain adventure. Mont Blanc perhaps?
YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
WHO IS THIS FOR?
You will need to come with a good level of fitness as you will be on your feet for most of the day. No mountaineering experience is required as that's what you're here to learn, but some previous hillwalking and general outdoors experience is always useful.
Determination is needed to keep you going throughout the course. While this adventure is open to new mountaineers, please note that doesn’t mean it’s physically easy. The better shape you are in the better experience you will have.
Not sure whether you're ready? No sweat! Drop us a note and we'll be happy to talk it through with you.
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Duration
4 Nights
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Start Location
Chamonix, France
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Date(s)
June - September
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Guide Ratio
1:2
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Ability
Level ALevel A
You’re not quite sure where to start but you’re hungry for an adventure and can’t wait to get going. Bring it on!
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Price
From €
Adventure Overview
LIVE THE ADVENTURE
Chamonix Summer Alpine Skills
01:55A little taster of the Chamonix Alpine Skills course. *Footage is from our Autumn skills course but they share many similarities.
The Cosmiques Arete
04:51As part of the trip we sometimes tackle this gem of a climb. Here Olly and Charlie have a bit fun while doing it.
Adventure Base: Through our clients eyes.
00:53We asked our clients to let us know how their trips went. They decided to show us instead. Below is footage captured by our clients on some of our favourite adventures. Thanks guys.
Meet The Team
01:48Introducing our crack squad of mountain lovers and adventure junkies. We spend most of our days plotting, planning and building some of the very best trips out there for you all to enjoy.
Kit & equipment required for this adventure
Certain items can be rented from Adventure Base such as crampons, ice axe, helmet and harness (You are able to add these to your cart at checkout). We use the latest kit from Black Diamond meaning you'll be using quality equipment and our rental options are cheaper than if you were to rent it from a local shop when you get here. Win! (Note: Your kit might vary sightly from the images below)
Please note this is a guide and you may be required to rent or purchase last minute equipment on arrival dependent on the weather and changes in itinerary. For the full downloadable Alpine Skills kit list please click here.
Rent locally
Ice axe
Straight shaft for general mountaineering
Rent locally
Crampons
12 point steel mountaineering crampons
Rent locally
Helmet
Standard hard plastic climbing specific helmet.
Rent locally
Harness
Standard climbing harness
Sun block
For your nose and lips
Category 4 sunglasses
Must have high level of sun glare reduction and good UV protection.
Goggles
Just in case you hit bad weather
Down Jacket
Lightweight and thin down jacket.
Hardshell Jacket
GORE-TEX® or Similar
Softshell Jacket
Light technical jacket, ideally with a hood.
Thermal Tops
Keep them light and thin.
Lightweight fleece
Something light and thin.
Tech T-Shirts
Highly breathable, lightweight synthetic technical t-shirt.
Hardshell Trousers
GORE-TEX® or similar
Softshell Trousers
Stretch, durable mountaineering trousers.
Thermal Bottoms
Keep them light and thin.
Sleeping bag silk liner
You don’t need a sleeping bag itself, as blankets are provided in the huts
Thermal socks
Good walking socks are required
Mountaineering Gloves
Thick and built for the cold
Lighter gloves
Thinner to be used for mid mountain conditions and glacial walking. Look for a pair with good grip.
Hiking shoes / Trail Shoes
Good grip and ankle support is recommended
Head torch
Don't forget to pack spare batteries. They're essential
Sun Hat
Choose your hat of choice as long as it shields you from the sun.
Warm Hat
Ideally thin and single layered so it can fit under the helmet.
First aid kit
Blister kit, paracetamol, etc
Cash / credit card
For extra costs such as drinks and snacks
"Adventure Base. The name says it all. It is the perfect base for setting in motion, adventures in the mountains, and beyond, that you dream about! I was impressed by the quality of service and professionalism, and how the Adventure Base team makes sure you get the most out of the entire experience.
"There are so many companies who offer the world and when you check them out they don't deliver. Adventure Base deliver what they say and more. The best recommendations will always come through others who have used the same company and I'm so glad I took their advice.
FINER DETAILS
YOUR ADVENTURE PACKAGE
On arrival day you meet with your guides and fellow climbers at the accommodation for a welcome briefing and dinner in the evening. Here you will have an opportunity to ask any last minute questions as well as share your pre-trip excitement with your group.
What's Included?
- 3 days of learning mountaineering skills
- 3 nights accommodation with half board in Chamonix
- 1 night in a mountain hut with half board
- Handpicked Adventure Base guide
- All transport within the itinerary
- All group equipment
What's not Included?
- Airport Transfers (approx. €45)
- Personal equipment
- Personal travel insurance
- Uplifts (approx. €120 total depending on itinerary)
- Personal snacks, lunch and drinks
OUR CHAMONIX ACCOMMODATION
When not climbing the mountain we know the importance of having a comfortable base. That's why we've chosen this mountain lodge with it's super comfortable rooms and warm atmosphere. The perfect spot to rest up in-between your stays in the mountain huts. But don't let that nice linen and warm showers win your favour just yet. Wait until you've experienced a good old mountain hut with its basic, yet charming amenities and friendly hosts. We bet you go home missing the huts more!
VIEW GALLERY
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+ 3
Chamonix
The lodge is an excellent base for our Mont Blanc trip. With stunning views of the mountain, it's well placed and just a few minutes walk from Chamonix centre. Rooms are on a twin share basis with en suite bathrooms. Breakfast is included in your stay and is always plentiful. There is also a bar and restaurant for the evenings, with some lovely outdoor space to relax in after the climb.
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Duration
3 nights
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Internet
Wifi included
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Beds
Twin / triple rooms
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Food
Half Board
Mountain Huts
When heading up the mountain you will be staying in accommodation which boasts views that can't be beaten (Itinerary dependent). They're not going to win any five stars awards for service but will keep you warm, dry and fed. Just don't forget to pack your ear plugs... trust us!
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Duration
1 night
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Internet
Not included
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Beds
Dormitory
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Food
Half Board
WHAT TO EXPECT
HERE'S YOUR ITINERARY
While we try and stick to the tried and tested itinerary below, the mountain and the weather sometimes has other ideas. We will always remain as flexible as possible, which is why we only work with experienced and knowledgeable guides, to make sure we can change any plans if required.
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Day 1:
Arrival Day
Arrive in Chamonix anytime but preferably by the afternoon so that you can arrange kit and equipment you might need to rent or buy. Get to know the guides and other members of the group over a delicious 3 course evening meal at our lodge. Overnight in the lodge.
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Day 2:
Introduction to climbing and abseiling techniques
Rock climbing and abseiling techniques in Chamonix valley. Learn basic rope skills and techniques as well a a general introduction to moving across rocks and uneven terrain. Overnight in the lodge.
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Day 3:
Introduction to glacier skills
Today we head into the high mountain environment. Traverse the glacial Vallee blanche from the Aiguille du Midi to Pt Helbronner. A day looking at glacier travel skills and crevasse rescue. Overnight in the Torino hut with stunning sunset views over Mont Blanc.
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Day 4:
Putting it all to the test
Climb a nearby peak such as the Tour Ronde or traverse the Aiguilles Marbrées or a similar mountaineering route, putting all the skills into practise. Return to Chamonix in the afternoon and finish the course with a well deserved lunch and beer in town. Overnight in the lodge
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Day 5
Depart
Departure after breakfast.
Frequently asked questions about this adventure
MB: What Insurance Do I Need?
Let’s face it, these types of trips don’t come risk free. We’re putting ourselves in amazing environments Read more
Let’s face it, these types of trips don’t come risk free. We’re putting ourselves in amazing environments but also environments that carry an element of risk with them. In order to protect yourself adequately you will need a specialist travel insurance that caters for the types of activities you will be undertaking. It is a condition of our agreement that you are covered by adequate travel insurance for your arrangements. Click here to understand which one is for you.
MB: Is there WiFi in the mountain huts?
Meet your guides for this adventure
Miha
IFMGA Guide
Miha is an IFMGA guide from Slovenia based between the beautiful Julian Alps and Chamonix. He has been climbing for over 20 years all over the world, including expeditions to Nepal, Tibet, India, Pakistan, USA, Mexico and Peru. He summited an 8000er on his first expedition to the Himalaya, did a first ascent on the previously unclimbed Lasher peak in the Himalaya and climbed El Capitan and many routes over the Alps.
Pablo
IFMGA Guide
Pablo is originally from a small mountain village in Spain and came to Chamonix with only one dream to become a mountain guide. Based in Chamonix since 2013, Pablo made the Alps his playground as a guide and as an alpinist and has climbed many of the classic alpine routes. He combines mountain guiding with helicopter rescue work in Spain during the off seasons.
Faust
IFMGA Guide
Born in the Aran Valley, from parents who were ski teachers and mountain guides, the motivation inherited by nature has led him to practice all facets of mountain sports such as climbing, skiing and mountaineering. He has spent his alpine career as part of the FEDME team (Spanish Federation of Mountain and Climbing Sports) and his passion and profession have led him to travel to other continents to carry out his activity.
Fede
IFMGA Guide
"My favorite mountain is the Midi d’Ossau, in the Pyrenees. It is a volcanic and unique mountain, that a stands out from the other peaks around. It is a huge fortress with many different features that provides incredible rock climbing routes, and the most important thing is that is 20 minutes from my house ;)"
Jon
IFMGA Guide
"If asked about my favourite mountain or mountain range, it wouldn't be easy to answer since perfect places to climb, ski or explore can be found all over the world. But, if I had to choose one, I think I'd say the Pyrenees, not very high, but wild and still quite unknown: the mountains where I learnt when I was a child and where I can still live great adventures far from the crowd".
Fabio
IFMGA Guide
Fabio has guided with us for close to ten years now and has summited Mont Blanc more times than we can remember. He's even helped Sir Richard Branson get to the top of Western Europe. When asked what his favourite mountain was his response was 'It's the mountain not known to many, in a remote country that provides opportunity for adventure. That said, I do love Cordillera Blanca (Peru) to guide in, Montserrat (Barcelona) because it's where it all started for me and Main De Fatima (Mali) because it's special to me!"
Lars
IFMGA Guide
Lars is a IFMGA Guide originally from Belgium, with over 20 years of experience climbing and splitboarding in the Mont Blanc massif, the Alps and the greater ranges of the world. Having lived in Chamonix for over a decade he has enjoyed the unique and unlimited climbing possibilities in and around the valley. Lars is also one of the most recognised and experienced splitboard guides leading expeditions to Kamchatka, Greenland, Iceland and more.
Are you ready?
Our adventures are attributed a difficulty level from A to E. This Chamonix Alpine Skills trip is rated Level A, for beginners and newcomers We recommend you only book a trip that reflects your ability.
Level A
For beginners and newcomers
- You’re not quite sure where to start but you’re hungry for an adventure
- Little / no prior experience
- Shorter time duration
- No technical skills required but keen to learn
- Basic level of fitness
Think you've got this?
This trip is at this level
Level B
For those with some prior experience
- You have some previous experience in the outdoors, whether that’s hiking, skiing or climbing, and are keen to build on that
- You will either be starting to venture into more technical terrain or slightly more challenging environments
- Some basic skills
- Moderate fitness
More your level?
Level C
For accomplished adventurers
- You enjoy challenging yourself physically and mentally
- You’re comfortable on multi-day adventures and you call yourself an avid adventurer
- You're not quite George Mallory but you subscribe to his 'because it is there' attitude
- Strong level of fitness
More your level?
Level D
For the pros
- You're ready to test your skills on the next challenge
- You're comfortable in most types of alpine environments
- Some level of technical skills
- Strong level of fitness
More your level?
Level E
For the experts
- You’ve been on multiple adventures and have built up a solid skillset to tackle most challenges out there
- Good technical skills and knowledge
- Experienced in alpine/mountains environments
- Very high level of fitness
More your level?
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January - March
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Level A
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€995.00
Skills & Climb: Ben Nevis
Tackle Britain's highest peak in the snowy winter months away from the summer crowds. Spend 2 epic days on the west coast of Scotland as you take on the challenge of climbing Ben Nevis in winter conditions, with crampons on your feet and an ice axe in your hand. The perfect introduction for hikers with a good level of fitness who are looking to dive into mountaineering.
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January - March
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Level A
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€585.00
North Wales: Mountaineering Intro
Our two-day Mountaineering Introduction Course is a fun and friendly course to kickstart your mountaineering journey. This course is key to learning the skills you need to scramble in the mountains using a rope on grade 2 and 3 scrambles. The course will be delivered by a qualified Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor (MCI) who will guide you through all the skills you need to scramble on steep terrain.
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Spring and Autumn
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Level A
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€590.00
Prep Peak: Toubkal
Enjoy a cultural rollercoaster ride, from the bustling streets of Marrakech to the wild and quiet Atlas Mountains in just 5 days. Climbing Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa at 4167m, is challenging but suitable for newcomers to trekking mountains. The combination of mountain and culture on this trip is what makes it extra special.
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All Year
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Level B
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€450.00
North Wales: Alpine Prep
Do you dream of climbing in the Alps or the bigger mountains? Are you looking to develop all the skills you need to climb routes like the Matterhorn or the Eiger or do you just want to try out climbing in the mountains and see if you like it or not? Our Alpine Preparation course is ideal for anybody looking to learn the skills you need to climb in the mountains, and will help you develop your Alpine skills for your next big trip.
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Spring and Autumn
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Level B
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€790.00
Chamonix: Winter Alpine Skills
Our popular Alpine Skills course set in November and December, which are wilder, colder, often snowy and far quieter than the busy summer months in the Alps. The focus is on learning essential mountain skills such as crevasse rescue, ice climbing, roping up on glaciers all in a high mountain environment.
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November - December
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Level B
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€995.00
Mags: Haute Route Trek Guided 11 Days
The Haute Route trek is one of the world’s great multi-day treks. The route links two world famous alpine mountains, Mont Blanc in France and the Matterhorn in Switzerland.
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July - September
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Level C
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€3250.00
Italy, Gran Paradiso Splitboard Tour
Splitboard Gran Paradiso (4061m), the highest peak entirely in Italy, and tick off your first 4000m backcountry splitboard descent. That's right, there's a whole lot of downhill for all that uphill effort!
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March - April
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Level C
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€1850.00
Haute Route Ski X The Altitude Centre
The Haute Route ski tour has deservedly earned its reputation for being one of the world's great ski adventures. We've teamed up with the guys at The Altitude Centre to help you prepare for an epic 6 day journey crossing spectacular glaciated terrain from Chamonix to Zermatt.
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March - April
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Level C
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€2250.00
Swiss, Bernese Oberland Ski Tour
The Bernese Oberland ski tour is a stunning link up of high altitude mountain huts and peaks in the wild Bernese Oberland region of the Swiss Alps. The ski terrain in this region is suited for those with previous ski touring experience, who are looking to progress to the next level and discover some high altitude peaks and glaciers. You can expect long ski tour days, comfortable huts and big ski descents.
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March - April
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Level D
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€1850.00
Island Peak
Island Peak at 6,189m is considered one of the world's best adventures for any mountain lovers out there. Part trek, part mountaineering, this is a trip for those looking to add a little more adrenalin to the Everest Base Camp Trek. Book this trip and receive a free sleeping bag and duffle bag for your adventure.
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Spring & Autumn
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Level D
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€4250.00
Mera Peak
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Spring & Autumn
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Level D
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€4350.00
Eiger
The Eiger is one of the most sought after summits in the Alps and a formidable challenge for any keen mountaineer. Located in the Bernese Alps in Switzerland, this is a major Alpine classic steeped in historic tales of heroic climbing. On this trip we climb via the Mittellegi ridge. Got what it takes?
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June - September
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Level E
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€4299.00
READY TO LEARN SOME SKILLS?
We hope you've found all the information you need above, but if not don't hesitate to get in touch. If you're ready to book, follow the link below.
Deposit/Book Now