In a nutshell
Discover, learn and progress.
Come and discover ice climbing in Haute-Maurienne, one of the best playgrounds in the Alps ! From Val Cenis to Bonneval sur Arc, there are plenty of sites suitable for beginners, and the consistently cold climate on the north side of the valley guarantees ice all winter long.
Roadbook
Day 1
Welcome and equipment check. We lend you crampons, ice axes, harness and helmet.
We spend the day at Les Barmettes, in Bessans, a perfect place for beginners with many equipped routes.
On this first day, we’ll teach you the basics of belaying and safety, as well as the use of gear (crampons and ice axes), essential skills for your future as a glaciarist !
Day 2
Cascade de Saint Landry.
After an hour’s walk, we arrive at the foot of one of Bonneval sur Arc’s major sites, where a number of routes varying in difficulty and size will enable us to show you how to climb a waterfall several rope pitches long, but also and above all to focus on technique.
Climbing an icefall is less brutal than you might imagine, and with a little practice in using ice axes and crampons, and in body positioning, it suddenly becomes a lot easier… and fun!
For the 3
We’re taking it up a notch !
Always with technique and safety in mind, we’re off for one last ice climb together. Depending on your level, we may climb the famous Rébruyant waterfall in the Avérole valley, or the Châtel in Val-Cenis.
Whether you are beginner or experienced, your guide will adapt by selecting sites suited to your level and experience.
You will learn everything you need, whether it’s about equipment, safety, rope techniques, and more.
The goal is to prioritize your progress, no matter your starting level.
The only thing you absolutely must bring with you: your motivation to climb these ice structures, as fleeting as they are magnificent!
Dates 2027
- Open group: From December 11 to 13, 2026, and from January 8 to 10, 2027
- Private group: Other dates are possible upon request. Contact us to organize your stay.
Price*
680€ /person for 3 days
*A minimum of 3 participants is required to maintain the activity. Below this number, we reserve the right to propose an adjustment to the outing, to cancel, or to suggest a postponement of the activity.
Incuded
• Supervision: UIAGM guide for 3 days of ice climbing.
• Transport in the valley.
• Half-board in shared room at Val Cenis (2 nights).
• Collective and safety equipment: ice axes, crampons, harness, helmet, ropes, and climbing gear.
• Access to the private site of Les Barmettes.
Not included
• Insurance: Personal and cancellation insurance (to be arranged by yourself).
• Travel: To the meeting point (optional upon request).
• Rental of mountaineering boots (available at Sports Vanoise store in Lanslevillard).
Required level
Good physical condition (ability to walk/climb for several hours).
Previous climbing experience is welcome but not essential.
Your guides
Etienne Voisin
Mountain Guide