Walking in the mountains delivers unique sensations. But combine these hikes with summit ascents, and you will uncover even more mountain grandeur. Through mountaineering, you can venture into the fascinating high-altitude environment—an extraordinary immersion in a mineral world!
A word of caution: to start mountaineering, it is strongly recommended to be in good physical shape, paired with suitable clothing and gear for your objectives. You don't need to be an elite athlete. However, for your first mountaineering outings, teaming up with a high-mountain guide is recommended to master fundamental mountaineering techniques.
Ready to get started in mountaineering? Now you just have to pick a summit—but where to start? We’ve picked 6 of the best suited peaks across the Alps and Pyrenees. Make your choice!
Dômes de Miage (3,673 m) - Mont White Massif (Alps)
To get started in mountaineering, the wild side of Mont White, the Dômes de Miage, is ideal. The most classic beginner route starts via the Col des Dômes at 3,524 metres, passing by the Refuge des Conscrits (2,602 m) to reach the Aiguille de la Bérangère. You will explore a wild, remote area well away from the crowds. This magnificent route presents no major difficulties, aside from a notable feeling of exposure.
Starting mountaineering with the Dôme des Écrins (4,015 m) - Écrins Massif (Alps)
This ascent between Isère and Hautes-Alpes is accessible to beginner mountaineers. However, it does require prior training. A lack of knowledge about the environment and alpine weather can hinder your ascent.
Your route starts at Pré de Madame Carle at 1,870 metres, passing via the Glacier White refuge. An overnight stay at altitude is required before pushing for the Dôme des Écrins. You'll be blown away by the stunning panoramas of Mont White and Monte Rosa. The crevasses and sheer drops are breathtaking. This route to start mountaineering presents no major technical difficulties.
Aiguille du Tour (3,542 m) - Mont White Massif (Alps)
If you want to put all the basic mountaineering techniques into practice, this ascent is for you! You'll tackle rocky, snowy, and icy terrain. Teaming up with a high-mountain guide is recommended for invaluable on-trail advice.
This route is ideal for getting started in high-mountain mountaineering. It is straightforward and without major technical difficulty. Starting from the Albert 1er refuge, you'll head towards the Swiss Trient glacier and the French Tour glacier. Part of the Mont White Massif, the Aiguille du Tour route takes you across crevasses and cols.
To get started in mountaineering the right way, check out our guide to the best waterproof mountaineering jackets.
Roche Faurio (3,730 m) - Écrins Massif (Alps)
The Roche Faurio route offers a varied itinerary, perfect for an introduction to high-mountain mountaineering. You'll encounter snow, ice, and rock on this magnificent peak right in the heart of the Écrins Massif. To start mountaineering, this route sets off from Pré de Madame Carle up to the Glacier White refuge at 2,542 m. After a night at the Écrins refuge, you'll reach the summit of Roche Faurio at 3,730 m, boasting a splendid panoramic view of the Mont White Massif.
Vignemale (3,298 m) - Vignemale Massif (Pyrenees)
Vignemale is a major Pyrenean summit, ideal for getting started in mountaineering. Various peaks surround it (Petit Vignemale, Montferrat, etc.). Its position is strategic, situated on the edge of the Pyrenees National Park and the Biosphere Reserve. Your ascent can start from various villages (such as Torla or Gavarnie). You will follow a large section of the GR 10 and climb the 1,700 metres of the Ossoue glacier. You will have the privilege of discovering one of the most beautiful mountains in the Pyrenees. There are no particular difficulties to report in good weather conditions.
Aneto Peak (3,404 m) - Maladeta Massif (Pyrenees)
Mountain lovers and beginner mountaineers, set out to conquer the highest, most renowned peak in the Pyrenees range. This essential hiking route on Spanish soil in Aragon is not overly technical, but demanding, requiring solid physical fitness. When in doubt, hire a guide. Certain sections can be exposed and intimidating for beginners.
Begin your ascent from the Besurta car park up to the Rencluse refuge (2,140 m). The famous "Mahomet's Pass" (Pas de Mahomet) may give you a few thrills, but it's well worth the effort! Breathtaking panoramas await throughout, such as the Pic de Crabère. Then you stand on Aneto Peak at 3,404 metres, the epicentre of the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park.
Looking for total scenery and a true personal challenge? Mountaineering is the answer. Getting started in mountaineering is accessible to almost anyone with a decent fitness level. The 6 ascent ideas above are perfect to get you launched. Just remember to head out with a mountain professional for your first trips. Magnificent high-altitude discoveries await!
