Walking in the mountains offers unique sensations. But if you combine those hikes with summit ascents, you will discover even more of the splendour of the mountains. Through mountaineering, you can venture into the fascinating world of high altitude — an immersion in an extraordinary mineral landscape!
Bear in mind, however, that it is strongly recommended when getting started in mountaineering to be in good physical shape and to have equipment and clothing suited to the objectives you set yourself. You do not need to be a top-level athlete. Nevertheless, during your first mountaineering experiences, it is advisable to seek out a high-mountain guide in order to acquire the basic mountaineering techniques.
The desire to get started in mountaineering is very real — all that's left is choosing the summit. But how do you know which one? We have selected the 6 most suitable summits in the Alps and the Pyrenees. Make your choice!
Les Dômes de Miage (3,673 m) - Mont-Blanc Massif (Alps)
For getting started in mountaineering, the wild face of Mont-Blanc — the Dômes de Miage — is ideal. The most classic itinerary for beginners is to start from the Col des Dômes at 3,524 metres, passing through the Conscrits refuge (2,602 m), to reach the Aiguille de la Bérangère. You will discover a wild, remote area, well away from the crowds. This magnificent route presents no particular difficulties, save for a sense of exposure.
Getting started in mountaineering with Le Dôme des Écrins (4,015 m) - Massif des Écrins (Alps)
This ascent between Isère and the Hautes-Alpes is accessible to beginner mountaineers. However, it does require prior training. Unfamiliarity with the environment and the climate can be an obstacle to your ascent.
Your route begins at Pré Carle at 1,870 metres, passing through the Glacier Blanc refuge. A night at altitude will be needed before reaching the Dôme des Écrins. You will be dazzled by the beauty of the panoramas over Mont-Blanc and Mont Rose. The crevasses and vertiginous faces will take your breath away. This route for getting started in mountaineering presents no major technical difficulties.
L'Aiguille du Tour (3,542 m) - Mont-Blanc Massif (Alps)
If you want to put all the basic mountaineering techniques into practice, this ascent is for you! You will cover rocky, snow-covered and icy terrain. Accompaniment by a high-mountain guide is recommended, as their advice will be invaluable.
This itinerary is well-suited for getting started in high-altitude mountaineering. It is straightforward and without major difficulty. You will set off from the Albert 1er refuge to encounter the Swiss Trient glacier and the French Tour glacier. The Aiguille du Tour is part of the Mont-Blanc massif. This route will take you across crevasses and cols.
To get off to a good start in mountaineering, check out our guide to the best waterproof mountaineering jackets.
La Roche Faurio (3,730 m) - Massif des Écrins (Alps)
The ascent of the Roche Faurio route offers a varied itinerary that is ideal as an introduction to high-altitude mountaineering. You will encounter snow, ice and rock. It is a magnificent summit. You will be immersed right in the heart of the Écrins massif. This itinerary for getting started in mountaineering begins at the Pré de Madame Carle, then leads you to the Glacier Blanc refuge at 2,542 m. You will spend the night at the Écrins refuge. You will then reach the summit of Roche Faurio at 3,730 m, offering a splendid panorama over the Mont-Blanc massif.
Le Vignemale (3,298 m) - Massif du Vignemale (Pyrenees)
The Vignemale is a major Pyrenean summit and a great option for getting started in mountaineering. Several peaks surround it (Petit Vignemale, Monferrat…). Its position is strategic, situated on the edge of the Parc National des Pyrénées and the Reserva de la Biosfera. Your ascent can start from several villages (Torla or Gavarnie, for example). 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 if weather conditions are favourable.
Pic d'Aneto (3,404 m) - Massif de la Maladeta (Pyrenees)
Mountain lovers and beginners in mountaineering, set out to discover the most renowned and highest summit in the Pyrenees range. This unmissable hiking route on Spanish soil in Aragon is not technically difficult, but it is demanding and requires good physical preparation. If in doubt, do not hesitate to call on a guide. Some sections can be tricky and daunting for beginners.
You will begin your ascent at the Besurta car park and make your way to the Rencluse refuge (2,140 m). The Pas de Mahomet may give you a few frights, but it is well worth it! Breathtaking panoramas will greet you along the way — Pic de Crabère, for example. Here you are at the Pic d'Aneto, at 3,404 metres, at the epicentre of the Posets-Maladeta natural park.
Looking for a total change of scenery and a chance to push your limits? Look no further! Mountaineering could be the answer. Getting started in mountaineering is within reach for almost everyone, provided your physical condition allows it. The 6 ascent options above are ideal for taking the plunge. Do remember to have a mountain professional accompany you when starting out. Extraordinary and breathtaking discoveries await you!
