Mountaineering
Mountaineering: pick what suits you. Options for beginners, families or groups, in the finest settings there are.
Adventure level
High to expert
Duration
One day to several days
Group
1–8 people
Season
All year, depending on the route
What is mountaineering?
Mountaineering is a demanding mountain pursuit: you climb peaks and follow natural lines using particular techniques for movement and safety.
It draws on route-finding, climbing, stamina and the ability to adapt to whatever the mountain is doing.
Routes can go over rock, snow or ice, depending on the season and the grade.
It builds a deep tie to the mountains, along with discipline, self-belief and the habit of pushing past your own limits.
How does it work?
Planning the ascent
The guide goes over the route, the forecast and what the group can handle.
Getting the gear ready
Everyone checks over the technical gear the route calls for.
Mountain briefing
You go over how to move, how to stay safe and how to find your way.
The ascent
The group follows the chosen route, with the guide leading throughout.
Reaching the objective
You reach the high point of the route and take in the view.
Who is mountaineering for?
Mountain enthusiasts
For anyone who wants to reach striking routes and ascents worth remembering.
Guided beginners
The introductory routes let you pick up the basics alongside an instructor.
Seasoned adventurers
For people after technical challenges and hard routes.
Team building
It helps teams build trust, communication and staying power.
Mountaineering — adventure level
First steps in the mountains
Introductory routes for learning the basic technique, route-finding and how to move on the mountain.
Intermediate mountaineering
Ascents that ask for stamina, safety technique and some mountain experience.
Mountaineering — advanced
Technical routes with hard sections, exposure and changeable alpine conditions.
Serious mountaineering
Complex ascents for experienced mountaineers with strong technical and physical preparation.
At a glance
Duration
From a few hours to several days, depending on the route and the objective.
When
All year round, with different routes for the warm season and for winter.
Minimum age
Usually 14 and up for introductory routes, depending on the grade and how prepared you are.
Experience needed
Not required on introductory routes with a specialist guide.
Instructor
A mountain guide or specialist instructor is included on organised trips.
Locations
Mountain massifs, alpine ridges, glacial valleys and high routes.
Gear included
Safety helmet
Protection against knocks and falling stones.
Alpine harness
Used for protection on technical and exposed ground.
Alpine rope
Used for safety and for getting through the hard sections.
Crampons
Needed for moving on snow and ice.
Ice axe
A tool for moving and for stopping yourself on alpine ground.
Alpine hardware
Karabiners, belay devices and whatever else the route needs.
What to bring yourself
Mountain boots, technical clothing and protection against wind and weather.
Safety in mountaineering
Mountaineering calls for a careful read of the conditions and strict adherence to the technical safety procedures.
Mountaineering — frequently asked questions
Mountaineering means climbing mountains and summits using particular movement techniques and specialist equipment.
Experience is not required for introductory routes, but they must be done with a specialist guide.
Yes. Mountaineering asks for stamina, since routes can be long and hard going.
Yes. There are winter routes, which call for gear made for snow and ice.
Depending on the route: the helmet, harness, rope, crampons, ice axe and other technical gear.
It depends on the route and the organiser. Introductory trips can be arranged for teenagers too.