Mountaineering: A Beginner's Guide

What is mountaineering?  

The quest to reach the highest summits with minimal equipment has been around for thousands of years. Religious devotees and scientists alike have long yearned to see what lies at the top. However, it wasn’t until the late 1700s that it became a purely athletic discipline.  Michel-Gabriel Paccard reached the summit of Mount Blanc in 1786, tempted by the challenge and the offer of a cash prize. Mountaineering (or alpinisme in French, named for the Alps) spread across the continent and throughout the world. 

By the 20th century, ambitious climbers were scaling mountains like the Rockies, the Andes, and the Himalayas. Tried and tested techniques were developed, and equipment became less expensive and more widely available, making mountaineering accessible to the general public.
Today, the Alpine adventure has gone mainstream, and sessions are available as part of ski holiday packages or as add-ons.  

Thinking about adding mountaineering to your ski holiday? Let’s take a look at how you can prepare for your ascent to the summit. 

Prerequisites for mountaineering 

Mountaineering requires a good level of overall fitness, as sessions often last all day. It works the entire body (legs for hiking, arms for climbing vertical surfaces, etc.), so it’s best to be prepared. Those who do not work out regularly should start a regular program of walking or jogging 2-3 months before departure. Long treks require lots of endurance. Keep in mind that mountaineering is not recommended for children. (Older children and teens may be allowed on mountaineering sessions if accompanied by an adult.) 

There are specific skills to master of course, such as using an axe, a belaying device, and a harness, but these can be learned with the assistance of a guide. And beginners can start off on easier routes with fewer obstacles. 

A great deal of focus and strategy is also involved—you’ll sometimes have to choose the best route at the spur of the moment, given your resources and your abilities. So, the ability to improvise, go with the flow, and not get flustered is essential. It’s a great exercise for the body and mind! 

If that sounds like you, why not book a session?  

A typical mountaineering session  

Introductory sessions are essential for new climbers. Misuse of equipment can put novices in danger, so it’s best to get detailed instructions from an expert before you set off on more difficult routes. When you’re ready, why not opt for a multi-day course or a trip? You’ll cover much more ground, and venturing into unknown territory is all part of the thrill!  

But let’s start at the beginning.  

Introduction to mountaineering (day-long sessions) 

Introductory sessions are essential for first timers to learn the ropes (literally!) and the proper safety precautions to take. But this is not a boring circuit for beginners. Participants will reach the top of a summit and use all sorts of techniques—climbing vertical cliff faces and rappelling back down as a grand finale! 

Average cost: 80-100€ per person per day 

Mountaineering courses (multi-day sessions) 

For climbers who would like to learn or improve their technique quickly, multi-day courses are available. Courses are given in small groups, so participants will get plenty of personal attention. Equipment and lodging are often included, but make sure to check with your provider. 

Average cost: 250-450€ per person for 3 days 

Mountaineering trips (multi-day sessions) 

Mountaineering expeditions offer the ultimate immersive outdoor experience. You’ll spend several days out in the wilderness, often without returning to civilisation until the end of your trip. It’s an intense but rewarding experience for seasoned climbers. The cost of mountaineering expeditions can vary, depending on what kind of lodging (hotels, base camps, or camping) and meals (basic or gourmet) are included.  

Average cost: From 600-1500€ for 5-7 days 

Note: Reserve well in advance! These mountain experiences are more and more in-demand and space in base camps is limited. 

Equipment and clothing for mountaineering  

Keep in mind that mountaineering is an extreme sport practiced at cold temperatures and high altitudes. It’s essential to stay warm and dry and to be outfitted with the right equipment, as you’ll be scaling sheer surfaces and rappelling down. For winter sessions, you’ll need the necessary gear for three main activities: trekking, scaling cliff faces, and ice climbing.  

Let’s take a quick look at a mountaineer’s kit.  

Mountaineering boots and crampons 

Mountaineering boots differ from ordinary hiking and come in three varieties: single, double, and double gaiter. Double boots have a removable outer boot and double gaiter boots have a fixed outer boot. The more extreme the conditions, the more useful an outer boot is. Mountaineering boots come in standard models that are compatible with certain crampons. If you’re going out in wintry conditions, you’ll need a model that made for crampons to grip snow and ice. 

Brands to explore: Petzl, Grivel, Black Diamond  

Belaying system 

A belaying system allows you to be safely tethered as you climb sheer surfaces or rappel down. Components of a belaying system include draws (to connect ropes to anchor points), a belaying device, a harness, carabiners (to connect the rope to the harness), and of course the rope itself. Most of this equipment is available for rental. If you’d like to purchase your own, pay careful attention to maintenance. 

Brands to explore: Kailas, Fusion, Black Diamond, Petzl  

Ice axe 

If you're headed out in winter, you'll be climbing up ice falls, you’ll need an ice axe. Ice axes look a bit like giant ice picks with a hammer-like head and an adze at the top. Adzes, cutting tools that run perpendicular to the handle, are useful for cutting steps. If you purchase your own, opt for durable material like steel, a comfortable grip, and a lightweight design. 

Brands to explore: Petzl, Grivel, Black Diamond   

Clothing for mountaineering   

If you’ve packed your ski wear for your winter holiday, you should already have most of the clothing that you need. Layering is key. Adding or removing layers will allow you to stay warm and comfortable. Then, swap your ski boots for mountaineering boots, add a helmet, and you’ll be good to go.  

Here’s a quick recap of the clothing you’ll need:    

• A base layer: thermal pants or leggings and shirt (avoid cotton, which retains sweat) 

• A mid-layer: an insulation jumper and soft-shell trousers 

• A top layer: a mountaineering jacket, hard-shell trousers, and waterproof shell 

• Add a parka if you’ll be venturing higher than 6000m! 

• Waterproof gloves  

• Warm socks    

• Sunglasses and sun cream   

• A warm hat   

Looking for more details about ski wear? Check out our guide: What to Wear Skiing.    

Where can I go mountaineering in France?   

The French Alps inspired the practice of mountaineering, so opt for an Alpine experience! Open from May in most places, mountaineering is a great adventure year-round! 

Chamonix

Phone number: (+33) 04 50 53 22 08 

Address: Maison de la Montagne 190 place de l’église 74400 Chamonix Mont Blanc FRANCE

Serre Chevalier

Serre Chevalier  is located in the Ecrins National Park, home to some of the best climbing in France. The varied terrain is a climber’s playground. From glaciers to rocky peaks, you’ll get a chance to try a bit of everything. Start with Rateau Ouest—it’s perfect for beginners!

Phone number: (+33) 06 27 06 78 99 

Address: Route de Grenoble 05220 Le Monetier les Bains FRANCE

Alpe d'Huez

Alpe d’Huez offers both easier and more difficult climbs, so the choice is yours! If you’re looking for a good compromise between stunning peaks, bustling towns, and family friendly resorts, this is the destination for you. Imagine yourself looking out from the summit over the ‘island in the sunshine!’ 

Phone number: (+33) 04 76 80 42 55

Address: Chalet ESF Rond-Point des Pistes 38750 Huez FRANCE