Ice Climbing Course in the Alps

This is an ice climbing course aimed at learning the fundamentals of ice climbing with a view to being able to tackle a multi pitch ice climbing route on your last day.

For the first day you will focus on ice climbing technique and climb in small groups of maximum 6 per guide using top ropes. On the last two days you will climb with maximum 3 per guide and attempt a multi pitch route.

It is suitable for beginners and intermediate climbers who want to hone their techniques. No ice climbing or rock climbing experience is required but will be an advantage. A sporty and adventurous spirit is recommended!!

This is the perfect activity break for a micro-adventure in the Alps to learn new skills and have some real fun and a challenge!

You will need to have made your own way to Gap. There are various different ways to get to Gap (including an overnight sleeper train from Paris), so please do ask for our help when you book and we can help you plan your journey here. If you need to travel the day before and require a hotel night, please just ask and we can arrange this for you.

We will collect you at 8h30 from Gap, ready for a day in the mountains ice climbing! 

The first part of the morning will be dedicated to checking everyones personal equipment and kitting you out with the technical items you will need for the course. Once everyone is sorted, your guide will take you up into the mountains for an ice climbing initiation focussing on balance, and basic ice climbing techniques. 

Learn how to master your ice axe swing and hook the ice in the most efficient way and practice crampon positions to get a safe and secure footing in the ice.

You will also start your journey of understanding ice and the many different types!

We will break for lunch today and eat in a local restaurant - perfect for warming up those fingers and toes before heading out again into the frozen wonderland! (lunch at your charge)

We will go to a different ice climbing venue today, with flexibility to do some short pitches if possible and maybe even an easy multi pitch route.

You will be maximum 3 to a guide so will have the possibility to do some multi pitch climbing and split into groups of similar ability so everyone can climb and progress at their level.

 Now you have mastered your own personal ice climbing skills it is time to start thinking about your climbing partner and making it safe!

Today will be focused on ice screw placements, belaying techniques and setting up safe belays and ice anchors to secure your climbing partner.

You will also continue to ice climb and perfect your ice climbing skills as part of today.

Depending on the weather and whether we decide to go for a longer multi pitch route or not, lunch will either be a picnic or we will take a proper lunch stop in a local restaurant (lunch at your charge)!

You will be checking out of the Auberge today so need to pack up your bags and all your belongings to take with you. 

Today is the big day where all your skills will come together and you will be able to tackle a longer multi pitch Alpine ice climbing route. The guide will choose a route suitable for your level and you'll set off for a day of adventure with a picnic and flask in your back back!

You will be maximum 3 to a guide and your guide will be assuring your safety whilst allowing you to put into practice your own ice climbing, belaying and safety skills with your climbing partners.

A fabulous finale for an intensive ice climbing course in the Alps!

The guide will drive you back to Gap this evening for 18hrs in time for an evening transport. If you wish to stay an extra night in Gap and travel back the next day this can be arranged - please just ask when you book.