VALLÉE BLANCHE
VALLÉE BLANCHE
The Vallée Blanche is a renowned 20 km off-piste descent on the Mer de Glace glacier, linking Courmayeur to Chamonix. Set in the heart of the Mont Blanc Massif, it offers breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience.
ONE OF THE LONGEST DESCENTS IN THE ALPS
About 20km and more than 2500 vertical meters of pure off piste.
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BREATHTAKING VIEWS
Ski among the crevasses and seracs of the Mer de Glace, beneath the Mont Blanc Massif’s most iconic granite spires.
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SUITABLE FOR SNOWBOARDERS
You have to be able to safely get across all kinds of terrain (traverses, flat stretches, etc)
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Try the thrill of skiing on a glacier and reaching Chamonix aboard the iconic red Montenvers train!
FITNESS LEVEL 2/5
DATES ON DEMAND JANUARY-APRIL
GUIDING RATIO 1:6 MAXIMUM
1 DAY TOUR
FROM €500
Technical Information:
A good skiing technique is required (ability to ski on red slopes) as well as some basic off-piste experience.
SCHEDULE
The Vallée Blanche descent can be done starting from either Courmayeur or Chamonix. From Courmayeur, there’s no need for crampons or roping up to access the glacier, while from Chamonix, you'll need to do so to descend an easy but exposed snow ridge that leads from the Aiguille du Midi cable car to the glacier. Access from the French side not only offers the classic descent but also a wider variety of routes (such as Gros Rognon, Petit Envers du Plan, Grand Envers) suitable for expert skiers. Additionally, starting from France means you won't be tied to the bus schedule for the return.
Regardless of the starting point, the program begins with a morning meeting for a briefing and equipment check. We will then take the cable car (Skyway from Courmayeur or Aiguille du Midi from Chamonix). After a brief visit to the panoramic terraces, we’ll begin the descent onto the glacier. Once we have our skis on, the real descent begins: an off-piste route winding through crevasses and imposing seracs, requiring safe and controlled skiing. When we reach the Requin Refuge, nestled between the rocks and the glacier, we’ll take a short break. Alternatively, we’ll continue descending to the "Salle à Manger," a flat and safe area where we’ll stop for a packed lunch. After the break, we’ll continue the final stretch of the descent to the Montenvers cable car. After visiting the iconic ice cave, we’ll take the cable car up to the red train station, which will take us to Chamonix in about 30 minutes. From there, we’ll return to Courmayeur by car, taxi, or bus.
NOTE: The meeting time and location will be confirmed at the time of booking.
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
SKI EQUIPMENT: It is possible to do this descent with regular piste equipment, although it is recommended to use ski mountaineering or off-piste gear. You will need: skis or snowboard, boots, ski poles (telescopic ones are ideal, even for snowboarders), and a helmet. Skins are not necessary as there are no uphill sections.
The avalanche safety kit (beacon, shovel, and probe) is mandatory. If you don't have one, you can easily rent it. Click HERE..
TECHNICAL GEAR: Harness, lanyard with carabiner, 12-point crampons with anti-balling plate compatible with your boots. This items are included in the fee.
CLOTHING: Technical base layers, spare t-shirt, fleece, Gore-Tex or similar jacket, down jacket, Sholler or similar pants, two pairs of gloves (one light and one heavy), hat, sun hat with a visor, gaiters.
OTHER: Energy snacks, camera, sunglasses (min. cat 3), sun protection, and ski goggles (in case of bad weather), 30/40L backpack..
NOTE: If you have any doubts about your gear or need to make any purchases for the climb, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’ll be happy to help you choose the best equipment for your needs.
COST
GROUP FROM 1 TO 4 PEOLE: € 500
GROUP FROM 5 TO 6 PEOLE: € 600
INCLUDED OR NOT
INCLUDED IN THE PRICE: Instruction and support from the guide, use of shared equipment.
NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE: Travel expenses to the location, lift costs, hut or other accommodation with half board both for the participants and the guide (costs will be shared among participants), technical equipment, extras, and anything not listed under "included in the price."
Is any of your technical gear missing? You can rent it! Click HERE.
RESERVATION
To confirm your reservation, a deposit is required.