World class guiding and teaching service

Private Ski Lessons Chamonix & Megève

Tiptop2016 Categories: Allgemein Chamonix Courses Freeride ski Northern Hemisphere Programmes Skischool &Telemark
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December – April

chamonix-private-ski-lessons

Professional private Ski lessons in  Chamonix & Megève ski areas from December until end of April. Learn from the Swiss Ex-world cup ski racer Ella Alpiger and her team.

Chamonix ski lessons

Everything about Chamonix ski resort is big. In the shadow of Mont Blanc, the deep valley has more skiable slopes than seems reasonable. With several ski areas distributed across the huge mountain ranges to north and south, a thriving town in the centre and smaller, charming mountain villages in the valley, there’s something for everyone.

Megève ski lessons

With the Mont Blanc as its backdrop, Megève ski area is in a lovely sunny setting and the village has a beautifully preserved, partly medieval centre. It’s the capital of the mountain way of life, an authentic village in the Savoy Alps that is covered by a carpet of snow every winter.

Teaching for beginners and experts

Many different slopes in all different colors and challenging Offpiste runs are waiting for you to be discovered.
Beginners and Experts are welcome to join the lessons!

We will analyze your skiing on video cameras. Fast technical progress and more enjoyable ski days are the result of that.

Ella Alpiger Snowsports instructor Chamonix Valley

Prices for private ski lessons in Chamonix valley:

Daily Ski and Telemark lessons, Off – piste days and Ski touring intro courses:

Half day (3hrs): 300.00€

  • 09:00-12:00 / 13:00 – 16:00

Full day (6hrs): 550.00€ 

  • 09:00 – 16:00 (with 1 hour lunch break)

Included in the price: Teaching, Video of your progress, pick up at your Hotel

Make a booking with Patagoniatiptop

Ski areas within the Chamonix Valley

chamonix-ski-areas-map

The Chamonix Valley offers 4 different, big ski areas. There is a multitude of slopes for all levels, each ski area having its own merit. Sometimes it’s not easy to choose where to go. Let us help you with this decision.

Brévent – Flégère the ski area out of Chamonix town

chamonix-brévent-flégère-ski-area-map

A south-facing ski area for skiers of every level, with superb gullies, on the edge of the nature reserve Aiguilles Rouges. An unrivalled panorama of the ‘roof’ of Europe and its surrounding summits. Access Brévent from the center of Chamonix or Flégère from Chamonix Les Praz (3km from Chamonix). At the bottom of the Brévent ski area there is a beginners area: the Savoy which can be accessed on foot from the resort center.

Grand Montets out of Argentière

grand-montets-ski-map-chamonix

The north facing ski area for expert skiers. Grand Montets ski area offers long, steep runs and a great off piste ski bowl. It’s the spot after a snow storm and for skiers that like moguls.

Balme – Vallorcine out of Le Tour or Vallorcine

balme-vallorcine-ski-map

The perfect family ski where to enjoy wide open gentle slopes overlooking the entire Chamonix Valley. There is some fantastic tree-skiing and tree-lined pistes on the Vallorcine ski bordering with Switzerland. In Le Tour at the bottom of the ski area there is La Vormaine, a very good beginner area.

Les Houches

les-houches-ski-map

Great for families and intermediate skiers. The ski area of Les Houches / Saint Gervais extends from an altitude of 950m to 1900m. From the summit one has a spectacular 360° view of the Mont-Blanc massive. And with 55 km of slopes meandering through the forests, you will discover the real pleasures of skiing. With the Kandahar slope Les Houches also offers a black slope where Men’s World Cup races are hold.

Unlimited skiing in and around Chamonix

With the Chamonix Unlimited Skipass (more than 3 days) we can also enjoy skiing in Courmayeur (ITA) 15 Min., Verbier (CH) 40 Min. and Evasion Mont Blanc (Megève, St.Gervais, Les Contamines) (FR) 20 Min. by car from Chamonix.

Why not try Ski touring?

Chamonix also offers great ski touring options not only for Experts.

Let us introduce you to our favourite sport with a Ski touring Intro. Learn all about safety, snow and technique. Bring your skiing and skinning to the next level!

Sign in for our Off piste, powder courses

chamonix-private-ski-lessons-powder-day

Explore the snow on the other side of the groomed run! If you have mastered the pistes and want to learn how to ski all trains off piste, come and sign up for our Off piste courses. We will teach you on all different slopes and terrains. Let’s train to get you fit to take a ski trip down the Valle Blanche!

 
Accommodation for ski lessons in Chamonix

Do you want to sleep in down town Chamonix or rather a bit outside in the quite or maybe ski in and ski out? Chamonix has it all, let us find the perfect place for you!

Chamonix skiing, what it’s all about

A must by all ski enthusiasts! The Chamonix Valley is consistently rated as one of the top ten ski areas in the world. The legendary skiing caters for every taste and ability. 90% of the ski area is above 2000m with an excellent snow record and a long season from December to May. It is the home of the legendary 23 kilometre Vallee Blanche and the Kandahar World Cup downhill runs. The lift pass which, covers 750km of groomed skiing includes the elegant resort of Courmayeur in Italy, Verbier in Switzerland, and Evasion Mont Blanc ski area. The Chamonix Valley is approximately 20 kilometres long with the Aiguilles Rouges mountain range on the north side, and the Mont-Blanc mountain range on the south side. 

The town

chamonix-town-with-mont-blanc

Chamonix is an ancient mountain town with a stylish atmosphere and a blend of French charm, varied skiing and modern facilities that few other alpine resorts can match. Our guests return time after time and always discover something new.

The town of Chamonix with its pedestrianised cobbled streets and squares, beautiful buildings has an excellent choice of quality shops, cafes, bars, restaurants, and a Saturday market that should not be missed. Chamonix has an attractive, bustling old town centre. The smaller, quieter ski villages of Argentiere, Les Houches and Vallorcine offer a different style of resort life.

Aiguille du Midi, 3842m

chamonix-private-ski-lessons-aiguille-du-midi

The top station of the Aiguille du Midi cablecar has a spectacular panorama of Chamonix, the Mont Blanc and the Mer De Glace glacier. It’s the access point to high elevation glacier skiing the world famous Vallée Blanche. Majestic Mont-Blanc, one of the world’s natural wonders dominates the area.

How skiing came to France; did you know?

first female skier in the French alps

Skiing had come to Italy via Switzerland since about 1895. The natural thing for France would have been to copy the neighboring Italians. They went to the source instead, they wanted a missionary from Norway and in November 1902 one such providentially dropped in. A junior Norwegian army lieutenant called Herman Schultz that wanted to visit France as a ski instructor in order to get out into the wider world an learn French. Later two more officers where sent to France and they started a ski school to teach the French soldiers. Those soldiers showed a legendary marching ability and could accomplish to march up to 50 or 60 km a day on skis without really being worn out. They sometimes started at 4a.m. and didn’t return until 8p.m.

The ski school was so exhausting, both for teachers and the taught, that it only ran from Monday to Thursday, with the rest of the week free; for the French soldiery at any rate. On Friday and Saturday, the Norwegians were expected to teach the officers and on Sundays, their wives. The Colonel’s lady was particularly keen. The two instructors would support her on each side and she was wearing a hat and veil! …”Suddenly her skis broke trough the crust, and we ran on, but in confusion. It was not a dignified regimental commander’s wife who got her feet, covered in blood, with hat awry and tattered veil. Afternoon tea with her was cancelled. We didn’t see her for 14 days.”

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Chamonix hiking: Hut to Hut short trips, French Alps

Tiptop2016 Categories: Allgemein Chamonix Hiking Hiking & Snowshoeing Northern Hemisphere Programmes
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Lac Blanc mountain Lake in Chamonix

Patagoniatiptop video

Dates Chamonix hiking: June – September
  • Find our two 3-Day trip options below

“Rustic hut charm with incredible views!” 

This two short trips are perfect for hikers that like to enjoy stunning views over the Mont Blanc mountain chain, sleep in two mountain huts and spot some ibex and wildflowers along the way. Your local guide makes sure that you will get to the huts just in time to enjoy a delicious mountain dish and that you don’t have to worry about anything but taking the nicest pictures of the famous mountain scenery.

On the first option you will sleep in dormitories, and on the second option you’ll enjoy the comfort of a double room if available.

1. Aiguille Rouge mountain range
 
Arrival day : Meet in Chamonix

18.00: Information and meeting with the guide in Chamonix.

Day 1: Refuge Bellachat, 2152m

We hike from Chamonix up to the Refuge Bellachat (2152m). The Refuge offers one of the nicest views over the Mont Blanc mountain chain. You might want to enjoy a drink on the terrace that overlooks the whole Mont Blanc valley and wait until the sunset puts the mountains in a pink coat. The family style dinners will soon be served in the cosy mountain hut.

  • 5-6 hrs, 7km,  +1100m, (can be less altitude gain with a transfer to a higher start in the morning, overnight at the Refuge Bellachat
Day 2: Lac Blanc – Refuge Lac Blanc, 2352m

An early breakfast at the mountain hut with the fantastic views towards Mont Blanc. Our trail brings us up to Brevent summit for an even more breathtaking view. We reach Col du Cornu via the Col du Brévent where we walk down to Planpraz. After a picknick lunch we continue along the northern Balcony trail to Flégere. A chair takes us high above tree line. From here, our Refuge for the night is only 1hr away.  Lac Blanc mountain lake is the perfect location to take some stunning pictures of a perfect mountain scenery with the Mont Blanc in the back.

Day 3: Aiguilles Rouges

We eat a good breakfast overlooking the Aguilles Rouges mountain before leaving this beautiful spot. Our way down to Argentière will take us to the Lac Cheserys and either Argentière or the Col du Montets. Those that want to hike a bit longer can join the guide on the Petit Balcon Sud all the way back to Chamonix. Lunch will be served at a typical mountain restaurant. 

  • 3-5 hrs, 10km, – 100m
Map with the Chamonix hiking route in red:

chamonix hut to hut hiking route

Costs per Hiker 
  • 1254.00€ with 2 hikers
  •  795.00€ with 4 hikers 
  •  642.00€ with 6 hikers

Included in the price: Organisation, privat UIMLA-mountainleader for 3 days, 2 nights in dorms at mountain refuges with half board, 2 pack lunches, one lunch at Restaurant, hiking map copy
Not included: personal insurance, drinks

2. Miage Mountain range
 
Day 1: Refuge de Miage, 1559m
 
Meet your guide at 9.00 in the morning in Chamonix and take the local bus to Les Houches. Prarion cable car brings you to a starting location with an exceptional view, right across the Mont-Blanc mountain range. You will walk down to Col de Voza (1653m), cross an impressive suspension bridge over a glacial stream and hike up to your next pass, Col de Tricot (2120m). You will eat picknick along the way and have time to enjoy the wild flowers and views over glaciers and peaks.
A steep trail down brings you to your beautiful final location of the day, the Refuge de Miage.
Overnight at one of the wonderful Chalets at Miage Alpage.
 
  • (8km, -700m, +500m), overnight at Refuge Miage
 
Day 2: Refuge de Miage – Refuge Tré – la Tête (1970m)
 
You will walk up to Chalet du Truc (1800m), a lookout where local farmers produce their cheese and sausages and start walking down trough a lush forest to the Valley of Les Contamines. Now your way starts climbing up little by little to finally arrive at the Tré – la – Tête Refuge at the foot of the Domes du Miage on the West side of Mont Blanc. You might want to enjoy the homemade Blueberry pie on the sunny terrace overlooking the mountains and valleys.
Night and dinner at Refuge Tré-la-Tête
  • (9km, – 300m, + 850m)
 
 
Day 3: Refuge Tré – la – Tête – Les Contamines
 
You stroll down to the Gorge Bon-Nant and can decide if you want to take a longer hike to Jovet Lake or just a loop in the Gorge and back down to Les Conatmines.
Take the local bus back down to St.Gervais les Bains and continue back to Chamonix by train. 
You will be back in Chamonix around 5-6pm.
  • (14km, -1400m, + 800m included Lac Jovet, can be much less up and down)
 
Map with the Chamonix hiking route and the huts in red:
chamonix-hut-to-hut-hiking
Costs per Person
  • 2 hikers: 1290.- € / hiker
  • 4 hikers:  828.- € / hiker
  • 8 hikers:  597.- € / hiker
 
Included in the price: Organisation, privat UIMLA mountain leader guide for 3 days, guides expenses, 2 huts in privat rooms with half board, 3 picknick lunches, Prarion cable car, Bus Chamonix – Les Houches, Bus Les Contamines – St.Gervais les Bains, Train St.Gervais les Bains – Chamonix, hiking map copy
Guide for your Chamonix hiking tour :

Local, certified UIMLA – mountain leader

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hut to hut hiking chamonix

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Trekking tour around Mont Blanc with Hotel nights

Tiptop2016 Categories: Chamonix Hiking Hiking & Snowshoeing Northern Hemisphere Programmes
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Dates: Middle of June to late September

  • 10 – day program, 9 hiking days
  • (We offer this tour also as a 6 days Best of Tour du Mont Blanc, please ask us for the itinerary)

Experience the Majestic Tour du Mont Blanc: A Bucket List Adventure

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the heart of the French, Italian, and Swiss Alps with the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB), one of the world’s most iconic trekking routes. Spanning 105 miles (170 kilometers), this exhilarating hike offers unparalleled views, diverse landscapes, and a deep connection with nature that will leave you in awe.

As you circumnavigate the majestic Mont Blanc massif, the highest peak in Western Europe, you’ll traverse lush valleys, alpine meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and dramatic ridgelines. Each day unveils a new landscape, from charming alpine villages to rugged mountain passes, all while being surrounded by breathtaking panoramas of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and verdant forests.

Our expertly guided TMB trek is designed for fit adventurers, offering a perfect blend of challenge and reward. As you hike through three countries—France, Italy, and Switzerland—you’ll not only be immersed in the awe-inspiring natural beauty but also experience the rich cultural diversity that makes this trek so unique.

Why Choose the Tour du Mont Blanc?

  • Stunning Scenery: Experience some of Europe’s most spectacular mountain landscapes, with jaw-dropping views of Mont Blanc, towering glaciers, and picturesque valleys.
  • Authentic Alpine Villages: Stay in traditional mountain inns and charming villages, where you’ll enjoy authentic local cuisine and the warmth of alpine hospitality.
  • Adventure and Comfort: While the TMB offers a thrilling challenge, it also provides comfortable accommodations and delicious meals to keep you energized and inspired along the way.
  • Cultural Exploration: Trek through three countries—France, Italy, and Switzerland—each offering a unique blend of languages, traditions, and cuisine.
  • Guided Support: Our expert guides, who are passionate about the region, will ensure a safe, seamless, and unforgettable experience, offering insightful commentary along the way.

Our Video:

Detailed Program:

Arriving day:
We pick you up at Geneva airport or you travel independent to Chamonix in the Chamonix Valley. Check-in at the Hotel and get to know your hiking guide that tells you all about the tour.

Dinner and night at the Hotel in Chamonix

Day 2: Les Houches (1007m) to Les Contamines (1167m)
Cable car ride up to Bellevue and ascent to Col de Tricot. A great lunch waits for us after a steep descent to the alpine village Chalets du Miage. We pass the Refuge de Truc where we buy some fresh cheese and sausages and finish the day in Les Contamines.

Night and dinner at Hotel in Les Contamines
• ascent 639m, descent 1200m
• distance 14km

Day 3: Les Contamines (1167m) to Les Chapieux (1554m).
We reach Col de Bonhomme (2329m) 0ver an old Roman bridge and trough alpine cow pastures.  After a picknick lunch we traverse the hillside to the slightly higher Col de Croix de Bonhomme before a descent to the hamlet of Les Chapieux.

Night and dinner at les Chapieux or village du Glacier
• ascent 1270 m, descent 906m
• distance 15 km

Getting into Italy

Day 4: Village du Glacier (1554m) to Courmayeur
We follow the well marked route up to Col de la Seigne (2516m) where we cross the border into Italy. We enjoy views to the impressive Mont Blanc from it south side while stepping over the border line. From the Col we descend slightly down to Val Veny and take a bus to the alpine city of Courmayeur.

Night at Hotel Courmayeur, no organized dinner
• ascent 734 m, descent 741m
• distance 15 km

Hiking in Courmayeur Val Veny

Day 5: Courmayeur (1226m) – Rest day
Today you have a rest day in Courmayeur. There are great shops, cafes and bars. We also suggest a trip up the new cable car to punta Helbronner. Fantastic views of Mont Blanc and the glaciers of the Valle Blanche.

Night in Hotel in Courmayeur, no organized dinner

Day 6: Courmayeur (1226m) to Refugio Ferret
We head up to Bertone Refuge for a coffee. Then along the ridge with some of the finest views of the Mont Blanc range, to the guesthouse Chalet Ferret(2025m). A peaceful mountain guest house next to a mountain stream.

Night and dinner at Chalet Ferret
• ascent 1080m, descent 522m
• distance 18km

Getting into Switzerland

Day 7: Chalet Ferret (2025m) to La Fouly (1610m)
A gentle traverse of the mountainside to the Rifugio Elena for a morning coffee followed by a climb up to the Grand Col Ferret (2537m) where we cross the border into Switzerland. Down through the flower meadows to the small village of La Fouly.

Night and dinner in a Hotel in La Fouly.
• ascent 760m, descent 746m
• distance 14km

Day 8: Champex Lac (1466m) to Trient (1279m)
We take a bus up to Champex Lac and  walk along the Bovine trail up to the Bovinette alpage where you can enjoy a delicious apple pie or a home made soup. Enjoy stunning views down to the Roman town of Martigny and the Rhone valley as you walk to Trient for the night. After the dinner we’ll have a short transfer into France for the night in the Mont Blanc valley at Argentière.

Night and dinner in a Hotel in Argentière

  • • ascent 750m, descent 705m
  • • distance 14 km

Back to France

Day 9: Col de Balme to Argentière (1252m)
The last Col of the tour… The hike over the Col de Balme offers some of the finest views over Mont Bland and all the pointy needles around it. We stop for a delicious homemade Quiche at a mountain guest house before heading back down to Argentière.

Night at Hotel in Argentière, no organized dinner
• ascent 1100m, descent 500m
• distance 13km

Day 10: Argentière (1252m) to Chamonix (1000m)
From the Col des Montets  you walk through the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve  to the famous Lac Blanc which provides a magnificent view of the Mont Blanc Massif. Your last walk down of the tour to La Flegère (1875m) and then a  cable car down back to Chamonix.

Last night in a Hotel in Chamonix and farewell dinner
• ascent 1100m, decent 500m
• distance 12km

Map:

map of the tour du Mont Blanc

Difficulty

This is a challenging route with an accumulated height gain and loss of over 9,000meters. The route crosses from valley to valley via  mountain passes, with long and some steep ascents and descents. This tour is ideal for regular walkers that are physically fit. The terrain on this trail is diverse with country lanes, forest trails, rocky mountain paths, and high mountain meadows. In early season you might have to walk over a few snow patches.

 We can arrange a luggage transfer between accommodations to make the tour easier for you.

Rates for a tour with luxury accommodations, please ask for the price for the tour with nights in huts and local guest houses
  • Hotel tour with private en suite rooms from 4’400.00€ per hiker 
  • Tour with huts and guesthouses: Please ask for the price

Included in the price:
Organization, certified UIMLA-hiking guide for the whole tour, 10 nights in privat rooms with ensuite bathroom in typical village hotels and mountain guest houses, breakfasts, 7 dinners, cable cars, pick up and drop off at Geneva airport, transport to hiking starts 

Not included in the price: lunches, 3 dinners,luggage transfer (we are happy to organize that for you, the cost is  35.00€ per day per luggage of 15kg), meals that are not listed above, personal insurance (accident, travel, annulation etc.), drinks

a picknick along our tour du Mont Blanc Trekking
Lunches

We didn’t include lunches because often hikers have different kind of appetite and food wishes along the trail. There are a view mountain guesthouses where we can stop for delicious lunches and the guides are more than happy to organize a buffet style picknick during the hike. Once in Les Houches the guide will ask you what your food preferences are.

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9 Reasons why you should hike the Tour du Mont Blanc

There is a never-ending battle over which city or region is truly the best “mountain town,” “trail city” or “outdoor heaven.” East versus West, mountain access versus desert singletrack, dense forest versus world-class crags, even the local craft-brew scene comes into the debate. Europe doesn’t have this problem—there’s a clear winner.
Chamonix, France is nestled at around 3,000 feet at the base of the picturesque Mont Blanc Massif and is about as close to a true outdoor heaven as a town can possibly be.
Chamonix’s crowning attraction for adventure-seekers, though, is its location along the Tour du Mont Blanc, a 170 kilometer (105-mile) circuit that observes the massif from all sides through three countries. More of a shrine to the Alps than a simple walk in the mountains, the TMB is the definition of a Bucket List Hike.

So, why should you stick the TMB on top of your list? Here are a few good reasons.
1. The Difficulty

The trail acts as a rite of passage for those addicted to serene alpine environments, climbing to 2,500 meters five times and totaling somewhere around 30,000 feet of total elevation gain. Each section of trail is comprised of a major uphill slog, usually followed by an almost equally brutal descent. It’s certainly no walk in the park, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

2. The Scenery

This one is a no-brainer. With hardly any forest cover, the mountain views are panoramic and never-ending. From almost any point along the trail there are million-dollar views of the massif’s glaciers and of Mont Blanc itself. You’ll want to keep your camera handy!

3. The Food

The TMB gives hikers the option to forego the “just add water” meals and incessant food daydreams that usually characterize a lengthy backpacking trip. Villages with stores and bakeries can be found almost daily, and more than 50 trail refuges offer semi-reasonable prices for hot food. Don’t worry, the physical demands of the hike will erase any guilt you might have about culinary indulgences. When in Europe, right?

4. The Accessibility

Many people shy away from backcountry trips that take longer than 2-3 days, the standard time/distance threshold where the risk goes up and the ability to bail goes way down. One of the most appealing characteristics of the Tour du Mont Blanc is how accessible and well marked the trail is. The path winds around some of the most sought-after terrain in Europe, so people are always nearby and help is readily available if needed. There are plenty of points to get on or off the trail, giving hikers the flexibility to create their own itineraries.

5. The Prestige

The trail is famous for its beauty, but this fame extends far beyond some pretty pictures in a magazine. For over a decade now, Chamonix and the TMB have hosted thousands of trail runners each August for the Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB), which has developed into one of the most prestigious and influential ultra races in the world. Hundreds of the fastest mountain athletes flock to Chamonix weeks before the event to train for what may be their biggest race of the year. The UTMB follows the TMB counterclockwise starting and ending in Chamonix, and the fastest runners finish in under 24 hours.

6. The People

One of the best aspects of any popular hiking destination is the people that you meet on the trail. The fact that the Tour du Mont Blanc is such a global attraction elevates this to a whole new level. On any thru-hike it would not be unusual to hear ten different languages being spoken and to see an incredible age range of people using the trail. The trail is also open to mountain bikes, so it’s common to see cyclists resting on the trail’s high-elevation cols before an exhilarating descent. Swapping trail stories is even more fun when your campfire pals are from all over the world.

7. The History

Most high mountain areas have a history of adventure, and the Mont Blanc Massif is no different. The first ascent of Mont Blanc was in the late 1700’s, not too long after the first circumnavigation of the massif itself roughly along the Tour du Mont Blanc’s path. Some of the trails that comprise today’s TMB route are even older than this, though, because they follow old trade and transportation routes used for many centuries between mountain villages—some dating as far back to the days of the Roman Empire.

8. The Culture

In international travel, getting from Point A to B efficiently can sometimes restrict cultural immersion. Hiking is the perfect way to reverse that. As the trail wanders through quaint and historic hamlets in France, Italy, and Switzerland, hikers are able to gain an intimate look into local life and culture at their own pace without the distractions of modern transportation.

9. The Distance

Hiking over mountainous terrain is tough, especially for the first few days. When a hiker is able to continue working through the soreness and discomfort on a longer trek, a new world of empowered enjoyment can be found. A thru-hike of the TMB takes 9-12 days for most hikers, giving anyone plenty of time to adapt to the terrain and to thrive in the mountains. This is the perfect distance for an international trip that calls for a full-scale adventure in a compact timeline.

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Dolomites hiking traverse, Italy

Tiptop2016 Categories: Allgemein Dolomites Hiking Hiking & Snowshoeing Northern Hemisphere Programmes
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Patagoniatiptop video

Private Dates: June – September

The Dolomites might just be the world’s most beautiful construction, on this both architect Le Corbusier and alpinist Reinhold Messner can agree. See and experience true South Tyrolean beauty whilst pondering the towers of Three Peaks (Drei Zinnen) or basking in the last rays of evening light that redden the mountains around Pederü mountain guest house. Hike along the Dolomites High Mountain trail and enjoy the very tasty, local food in this UNESCO World Heritage site. Our hiking traverse brings us from Cortina d’Ampezzo to Val Gardena and the impressive Sella mountain range and ends at the foot of the impressive Rosengarten towers at Karer pass.

There are great differences between the Himalayas, the Rocky Mountains and the Alps. It is yet not easy to tell them apart, by just giving a quick glance at a picture of the ranges. Generally speaking, mountains have common features, such as rocky summits, trees growing on hillsides, snow remaining in shady couloirs… 

The Dolomites however show very specific characteristics and are impossible to mistake for other massifs. Not only were they made from coral, but their history, flora and fauna make them truly unique. Mountain lovers find the views offered by these spectacular landscapes striking. 

We will discover the pretty mountain villages, 3 different natural parks and 5 mountain Dolomite mountain ranges. We will stay in beautiful Hotels with one night in a traditional mountain Guesthouse.

Picture credit: Keith Wagner, Canada
The Dolomites:

“Born as coral reefs 250 million years ago, today they soar skywards proud and confident as white towers of rock.”

Dolomites hiking Itinerary
Day 1: Cortina d’Ampezzo

We all meet at the Hotel in Cortina at 7pm to get to know your hiking guide, and talk about the itinerary for the week. We enjoy a delicious dinner together.
Night and dinner at Hotel in Cortina 

Day 2: Tre Cime di Lavaredo

10.5km, 4 – 5hrs, + 378m – 378m // 6.5 miles, 1240ft elevation gain, 1240ft loss 
After a short drive past beautiful Misurina lake we start with a gentle hike at the foot of the famous vertical rock needles Tre Cime di Lavaredo. 
Night at Hotel in Cortina, no organized dinner (many options in Cortina)

Day 3: Around Croda di Lago

13,4km, 6hrs,  + 864m – 327m // 8.3 miles, 2834ft gain, 1073ft loss
A short drive brings us to the south side of the Cortina valley from where we hike to the beautiful mountain lake Mondeva located at the foot of the imposing Croda da Lago. Here we stop for a drink at the mountain hut and can later admire the Mondeval alpine pastures from the Forcella Ambrizola Pass. We continue to Forcella Giau and meet our minivan at Passo Giau.
Night at Hotel in Cortina, organized dinner

Into the mountains we go…
Day 4: Malga Ra Stua – Rifugio Seekofel – Pederü 

15 km, 5hrs, + 730m, – 840m // 9.3 miles, 2395ft gain, 2756ft loss
We hike through the Fannes-Sennes nature park today on the Alta Via, a high trail that crosses the Dolomites, and visit the Seekofel hut, one of the oldest mountain huts in the Dolomites. Over green pastures we reach Fodara Vedla to test the best Apfelstrudel in the area. Down a steep military road and we are in Pederü.
Night and dinner at Mountain Guesthouse Pederü

Day 5: Pederü, Lavarella hut, Fanes Alm, Capana Alpina

14,3km, 5hrs, + 635m, – 575m // 8.8 miles, 2083ft gain, 1886 loss
A trail through beautiful alpine pastures in the heart of the Fannes – Sennes Nature park and a sea of rocky limestone formations decorate our way up to Fanes Alm. A short way down a steep valley and we’re in the Alta Badia valley.
Night and dinner at our Mountain Explorers Hotel in the beautiful small town of San Cassiano, Spa

Day 6: San Cassiano – Kolfschung – Crespeina alta via – Wolkenstein (Val Gardena) 

7.4km, 5hrs, + 545m, – 339m // 4.6 miles, 1788ft gain, 1112ft loss
From Kolfschung we take a small cable car up to our hiking start. We hike a panoramic high trail today and finish the hike in the beautiful small town of Wolkenstein in the famous Val Gardena.
Night and dinner at Hotel in Wolkenstein, Spa

Day 7: Wolkenstein – Sassolungo loop (Langkofel / Plattkofel) – Sellajoch 

13km, 5hrs, + / – 540m // 8.1 miles, 1300 gain, 1772ft loss         
This hike leads us around one of the mightiest of the Dolomite mountains. Thanks to this loop path, you can circumnavigate the whole Langkofel / Sassolungo mountain range and enjoy continuously different sceneries and panoramas, always spectacular, while you proceed. We start and finish our hike with cable cars.
Night and dinner at Chalet Hotel in Fassa valley, Spa

Day 8: Rosengarten explorer – Refugio Vajolon  

11km, 6hrs, + 538m, – 290m // 6.8 miles, 1765ft gain, 951ft loss
The Rosengarten towers are very unique and our loop brings us to the Vajolon mountain cabin which is situated right underneath the steep rocky faces of the Rosengarten towers. We might spot some rock climbers on our way back towards the cable car.
Night at Hotel in Fassa valley, organized dinner

Day 9: Panoramic high trail Campiedi – Paolina hut – Fronza hut

10km, 4hrs, + 615m, – 200m // 6.2 miles 2018ft gain, 656ft loss
This relaxing walk is perfect to enjoy the views over the Fassa valley and up to the beautiful Rosengarten towers. A great hike up to a relaxed meal at Paolina hut with lots of time to enjoy the beauty that surrounds us. A chair lift brings us back down to our beautiful Hotel at Karer pass.
Night and farewell dinner at our beautiful Hotel at Karer pass, Spa

Day 10: Departure day 

Bye – Bye hikers Breakfast at the Hotel before your onward journey or your travel back home.
From Karer pass it’s only about a 1.5hr drive to Bolzano.

Map for the Dolomites hiking traverse:

Dolomites hiking tour

Fees  Dolomites hiking traverse:
  • 4982.00 USD per person with 6 guests, single supplement $270.00
    Minimum of 4 persons needed to conduct the tour (ask for prices); tour will be cancelled if less than 4
    Ask for discounts for bigger groups.

Included in the price: 
Accommodation and meal reservations and organization of the trip, UIMLA hiking guide, 9 nights in nice Hotels in private double rooms, 1 night in a cozy mountain guesthouse in private double rooms, private transportation to the hikes and back to the hotels, luggage transfer to all hotels, 8 dinners (as noted), park entries, cable car fees.

Not included in the price: 
1 dinner, lunches and snacks, beverages, personal insurances (accident, travel, cancelation etc.), transport to Cortina and back from Karer pass.

Changes to the itinerary: 

Note: All itineraries are subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control including, weather, road or trail conditions and flight schedules.

Hiking Level for Dolomites hiking traverse:

This is a moderate trek 
8 hiking days with 4 to 7 hours of hiking daily, with 1900ft of average vertical gain each day. Hiking will generally be on well-maintained mountain trails, sometimes including easy off-trail sections. This trip is for active people who don’t mind training to prepare for the hike, or a great multi- day hike for people with trekking experience. 

Accommodation: 

3 nights at Hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo
1 night at the mountain guest house in Fanes Natural Park 
1 night at Hotel in San Cassiano
1 night at Hotel in Wolkenstein
2 nights in Fassa valley
1 Nights at Karer pass

Lunches: 

We didn’t include the lunches because we have had big differences in eating preferences in the past. Some people only want to eat an energy bar, others like more a buffet style picnic or to stop at one of the many great mountain restaurants. Once in Cortina you can let me know your preferences and I can organize a picnic style buffet each day or box lunches for you. Also often there are many great mountain restaurants along the way where we can stop for lunch.

Dinners: 

1 dinner in Cortina d’Ampezzo is not included. The guide will help you find the perfect dinner place for you.

Insurances: 

Travel insurance is not included in your tour.
We strongly recommend that you purchase insurance to cover cancellation, medical expenses, personal accident, personal baggage, money and public liability. 

Climate: 

Alpine weather can change suddenly, involving wide temperature variations. Temperatures also drop with altitude, and snow falls in summer are not rare. You should be prepared for cold and  hot weather, while minimising items you need to pack. 

How to get to Cortina d’Ampezzo:

Venice has the closest airport and is a great location to start the tour. We recommend spending a day or two in this beautiful town prior or after the trip.

Private transportation from Venice airport:
If you like I can organize a private shuttle from the Venice airport to Cortina and back for those who would like to go back to Venice on the last day.  

By train:

If you prefer traveling by train, the main railway line is Venezia S.Lucia – Calalzo di Cadore, then transfer to Cortina by a connected bus service. The next railway station is at Calalzo di Cadore, 21.7 miles away.

By bus:

There is a 2-hours direct bus service from Venice to Cortina called the Cortina Express. It operates daily: http://www.cortinaexpress.it/en/index.htm 

How far is Cortina from … / miles:

100 from Venice
268 from Milan
430 from Rome 
102 from Innsbruck 
820 from Calais
  27 from the Austrian border  
  45 from A27-Belluno motorway   

How to get back from Karer Pass at the end of the tour

I’m happy to arrange a Taxi for you or you can take the public bus to Bozen/Bolzano and than a train to Venice or where ever you like. From Bozen there are trains in all different directions.

Packing list for this Dolomites hiking tour:
Recommended clothing:
(We’re fans of Merino wool clothing for hiking, they dry fast and don’t smell)
  • 1 pair of hiking boots or shoes (high or low is up to you, I always recommend higher ones but the trails are in very good shape)
  • functional underwear
  • hiking socks
  • 1 long sleeve shirt
  • 2-3 T-shirts
  • 1 fleece or soft-shell jacket
  • 1-2 pair synthetic hiking pants or shorts
  • 1 pair long pants
  • 2 – 3 pair hiking socks – wool or wool blend
  • 1 pair shoes for wearing after the hiking in the towns
  • 1 sun hat, 1 warm hat
  • thin Gloves
  • 1 set Gore-tex rain gear
  • 1 thin down jacket
  • Casual outfit for dinners
  • Gaters (for tours in early spring) 
Optional clothing:
  • Swimsuit (many Hotels have a Spa)
Gear:
  • 1 day backpack
  • 1-2 water bottles, thermos bottle
  • Sunglasses
  • Personal toiletries
  • Wollte or similar for hand washing clothes at Hotels
  • 1 pair trekking poles
  • Camera
  • Blister tape
  • Pocket knife
  • Personal medicaments
Read more about our last Dolomites hiking traverse from our friend and travel writer Laura Gosset

Please press on the “make a booking” button to send us an e-mail with your questions!

Book Haute Route Chamonix to Zermatt

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Ski touring Haute Route Chamonix – Zermatt

Tiptop2016 Categories: Allgemein Chamonix Northern Hemisphere Programmes Ski touring
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Dates:
March – April, please choose your date for privat tours

From the French to the Swiss historical alpine capital

This seven day Ski tour on glaciers for the most part, offers exceptional beauty of the landscapes. It traverses the crest of the Western Alps and passes through some of the most stunning mountain scenery in Europe. We start in Chamonix, at the foot of Mont Blanc and ski across the Wallis glaciers of Switzerland. The tour ends with a unique ski descent on the foot of the Matterhorn down to Zermatt.

  • 7 skitouring days
  • 6 nights in typical mountain huts

Daily itinerary

Day 1: Chamonix – Refuge d’Argentière
Chamonix – Refuge d’Argentière
Elevation gain: 700m
Vertical loss: 700m

Day 2: Refuge de Trient
Ref Argentière  – Refuge Trient
Elevation gain: 1100m
Vertical loss: 300m

Day 3: Refuge Prafleuri
Refuge Trient – Refuge Prafleuri
Elevation gain: 900m
Vertical loss: 2700m

Day 4: Cabane de Dix
Refuge Prafleuri  – Cabane de Dix
Elevation gain: 800m
Vertical loss: 660m

Day 5: Cabane des Vignettes
Cabane de Dix – Pigne d’Arolla – Cabane des Vignettes
Elevation gain: 894m
Vertical loss: 728m

Day 6: Cabane Bertol
Cabane des Vignettes – Cabane Bertol
Elevation gain: 1098m
Vertical loss: 853m

Day 7: Cabane Bertol – Zermatt
Cabane Bertol – Zermatt
Elevation gain: 610m
Vertical loss: 2270m

Options:

This spectacular tour can be done in many different ways. Adding more peaks or changing tour route with other huts. Please contact us for more informations.

Map:

map of the haute route Skitour from chamonix to zermatt

Price:
  • 2 Skiers: 3’596.00€ per Skier
  • 4 Skiers: 2’189.00€ per Skier
  • 6 Skiers: 1’720.00€ per Skier 

Included in the price: Organisation, 7 days IFMGA mountain guiding, Private Transport Champex – Verbier on Day 2,  6 nights at huts with half board, 6 pack lunches, tea for the tour
Not included in the price: Drinks, Lift tickets, personal insurance*, personal equipment

*We strongly recommend the purchase of a cancellation, accident, travel insurance.

Level requirements

This trip is for experienced ski tourers who have already done at least one hut-to-hut tour or a multi-day ski tour. You should be able to skin up to 5 hours with up to 1100m vertical gain per day, at a good steady pace.
Efficiency in your skinning technique and confident moving over a steep and exposed terrain should be no problem. You are expected to be comfortable and safe doing kick turns on slopes of over 35 degrees.
Are you an excellent off piste skier, confident and efficient in skiing in all snow conditions without losing control over your skis?  Skiing on slopes of 40 degrees is not a problem of you?
You should be physically fit, ready to hike and ski for up to 8 hours per day without being too tired the next day. You have to be able to move reasonably fast (climb 400m/h).

Haute Route Mont Blanc Extension 

Why not benefit from your fitness and acclimatization and climb Mont Blanc with skis following your completion of the Haute Route? Take a look at our program!

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Kyrgyzstan ski touring adventure

Tiptop2016 Categories: Allgemein Freeride ski Northern Hemisphere Programmes Ski touring
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  • Date 2026: 27th of January – 5th of February
  • Best time for this tour is January / February, please contact us for private tours.

What to expect:

Imagine waking up in a traditional Yurt, in the middle of the snow caped Tien Shan mountains.  You are ready for a day of ski touring with your friends…! Your dream can come true.

We would like to introduce you to a fascinating country. Kyrgyzstan, a country of nomads, in the heart of Central Asia. Largely unexplored mountains offer a wonderful playground.

We take you to yurt camps in snowy summer pastures. That offers us immediate access to endless skiing terrain with mountains up to 3,400-3,600m.

Traditional, cosy yurts will be ready for us swell as a traditional Russian Sauna next to a river with refreshing spring water. All yurts are heated by wood burning stoves.

10-day program / 7 skiing days:
Arrival day:

Arrive early in the morning at the airport in  Bishkek. Meet with the group and join the privat transfer to Karakol  (6hrs). We drive along the north shore of Issyk Kul lake, the second biggest alpine lake in the world. 

  • Night near Karakol in a privat home, dinner cooked by the family
Day 2: Yurt arrival

We skin up to the yurt today, do some avalanche training and get installed for the next 5 days.

Day 3 – 7: 5 complete days of skiing

Yurt based skiing days in Jyrgalan and Aksuuvalley

Day 8: Ski and back down to Karakol

We ski in the morning and go back down to Karakol in the evening.

  • The night is spent in Karakol
Day 9: Travel to Bishkek:

You will have some time to explore Karakol in the morning before we travel to Bishkek. Hot spring visit.

  • Last night and farewell dinner in Bishkek
Day 10: Back home

Flight back home

Prices per skier: 
  •  2795€  (minimum 4 skiers)

Included in the price:
Guiding with an IFMGA mountain guide, organisation, all accommodations as mentioned in the program (Hotel, guest house Yurts), all meals, all transportations from/to Bishkek

Not included in the price:
Flights, personal insurances, alcoholic drinks, personal equipment

Check out our video:

Kyrgyzstan… a fascinating country in central Asia:

A welcoming landlocked oasis located at the heart of Central Asia. It’s surrounded by Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and China. Kyrgyzstan is a  in a remote, always fascinating, sometimes volatile, and oftentimes misunderstood part of the world. With an average elevation of 3,000m (9,840ft) and 30% of its landmass buried under permanent ice and snow. The country’s landscape and people are defined by a ruggedness utterly unique to the highlands of Central Asia. The republic is a little smaller in area than the UK minus Northern Ireland.

Home sweet yurt

Yurts are the archetypal shepherd shelters. Circular homes made of multilayered felt stretched around a collapsable wooden frame. The outer felt layer is coated in waterproof sheep fat, the inner most lined with woven grass matting to block the wind. Long woolen strips secure the walls and poles. The interior is richly decorated with textiles, wall coverings, quilts, cushions, and ornately worked chests. Floors are lined with thicket felt and covered with bright carpets and sometimes yak skin. Look up: the central wheel-like tuneup that supports the roof is none other than the design depicted in the middle of Kyrgyzstan’s national flag.

Kyrgyz People

Native Kyrgyz make up around 70% of the country’s population. The remaining percentage made up mostly of Uzbeks and Russians. Kyrgyzstan gained its independence from the former Soviet Union in 1991. Many Kyrgyz today follow the nomadic traditions of their ancestors, erecting hand-crafted yurts in the high mountain pastures above their villages. There they graze their animals and live for the summer.

The central Tien Shan mountains

This region offers many superlatives of Central Asia. The highest mountains, the coldest temperatures, the longest glaciers and the strangest natural phenomena. It’s a region of ice, snow and unexplored peaks. The world’s fourth longest glacier and an amazing disappearing lake can be found here. You will be discovering the valleys close to Karakol where the temperatures are more pleasant. The Chinese were the first to explore this foreboding mountain zone, but it was not until the middle of the 19th century that European explorers penetrated the region. The snow that falls on this former Soviet state is particularly light and fluffy. This, combined with the country’s mountainous geography, makes it something of a paradise for powder-loving backcountry skiers.

Food

All food is prepared by local chefs. Our breakfast menu is Western-inspired, featuring omelets, frittatas, burritos, pancakes and french toast, and always the option of muesli or porridge. The dinner menu highlights traditional Kyrgyz cuisine.

Getting to Kyrgyzstan by airplane

Bishkek’s Manas airport is the main hub with relatively inexpensive international connections on Turkish and Pegasus (via Istanbul), Flydubai (via Dubai), Ukrainian International (via Kiev) and Aeroflot (via Moscow).

Visa

Around 60 nationalities can stay for 60 days or longer without a visa. Citizens of most major Western and former Soviet countries are included in those.

Language

Kyrgyz is a Turkish language that has the usual characteristics of that language group. Most notably vowel harmony, which is strictly adhered to. As part of the Kyrgyz-Altay group of Turkic languages, it is most closely related to the Altai language and fairly similar to Kazakh. Russian is also an official language and Uzbek is widely spoken in the south.

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