We find ourselves day by day in need of non-virtual gestures and expectations, ones that cleanse us from routine and bring us back to real life. We seek confrontation with what we’ve come from, revisiting it and adapting it to our time. While we’re aware of this deep connection with our origins, it’s equally true that 200 years of neglect have made us orphans of practical skills and knowledge. Today, we must learn what was once everyday for our grandparents. We must reclaim manual dexterity, practical sense, powers of observation, intuition, coordination, and awareness that the virtual world has progressively taken away from us. Choose a mountaineering course and regain what you’ve lost.
Going to the mountains is a wonderful activity, but it must be done right
Often, when we think about a high-altitude hike, we’re drawn in by the exciting photos and videos we see on social media, showcasing magnificent landscapes, blue skies, and vistas of ethereal snow. But we must remember that behind those images lies commitment and the need to overcome challenges, not always extreme but nonetheless beyond our city comfort zone, spending at least a third of our day in front of a blue-tinted screen.
Proper preparation is essential, as with any other activity. Relying solely on luck can be dangerous. Going unprepared can have serious consequences. Especially when approaching the mountains with the goal of rediscovered pleasure, it’s important not to put ourselves in risky situations due to avoidable mistakes we fail to recognize.
Choosing one of the mountaineering courses on Monte Rosa is important for many reasons:
1. Safety: mountaineering can be a dangerous activity without the necessary skills. A course provides fundamental knowledge to safely tackle the challenges encountered in the mountains.
2. Prepartion: being well-prepared before embarking on high-altitude hikes is essential. A mountaineering course teaches you what to bring without overpacking and without forgetting anything vital for your safety.
3. Terrain and weather assessment: learning to assess weather and snow conditions is crucial for planning safe hikes. Knowing potential hazards and how to react in case of an accident helps you avoid risky situations.
4. Equipment Use: a mountaineering course teaches you how to correctly use specific equipment, such as crampons and ropes, and provides you with the skills needed to move in the mountains effortlessly and safely.
5. Responsible Fun: while the goal is to have fun, it’s important to do so responsibly and knowledgeably. A course gives you the basics to be able to enjoy the mountain environment.
In summary, taking a mountaineering course prepares you to safely and consciously tackle the challenges of the mountain environment, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience without unnecessary risks.
Which course to choose
If you are a beginner:
If it’s your first experience at 4000 meters, a day climb can be an excellent way to test your altitude tolerance and understand if mountaineering is your cup of tea. You’ll have the opportunity to learn the use of crampons and ropes and acquire the basics of this beautiful ‘craft’.
During a day hike to Piramide Vincent, you’ll be guided through the wonderful world of mountaineering and provided with necessary basic information. Available dates are June 1st and 15th. The cost per person is €190.
If you want to gain experience and become self-sufficient above 3500 m:
If your passion is the mountains and you want to prepare yourself to take the step towards 4000 m by acquiring the necessary skills to independently undertake the first steps, this course is for you.
The course will take place on June 13-15 and July 11-13. The cost per person is €620. If conditions permit and the group feels ready, you may even reach the Capanna Margherita hut. Without a doubt, you will return home with all the necessary skills to go further.
If you already have experience in high-altitude mountaineering and want to take the next step:
If you have experience in mountaineering and are looking for an advanced course, this is the one for you. We will delve into safety techniques, ice axe usage, and crevasse rescue. Additionally, together we will tackle the Nose of Lyskamm to challenge you on steep slopes in an exceptionally stunning glacial environment. The course will take place between July 18th and 21st. The cost per person is €1100.
If you’re aiming for the highest peak:
You’ve dreamed of conquering Punta Dufour and you’re ready to tackle this challenge with determination and confidence. Thanks to the week-long course we’ve prepared, you’ll have the opportunity to carefully test your skills and prepare yourself to the best of your ability for the ultimate goal. In the end, you’ll return home not only with a deeper understanding of mountaineering but also with the pride of having climbed the highest peak of Monte Rosa, becoming a knowledgeable mountaineer fully prepared for future mountain adventures. The course takes place with well-knit groups on dates to be agreed upon. The cost is €2600 per person.
“And when you’re at the top, there’s nothing left to do but keep going.“
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