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Mountaineer on a rocky ridge in the Pyrenees, with a reservoir and the mountain range behind

Guided course

Introduction to mountaineering course in the Pyrenees

Progression, basic use of technical equipment and first safety skills in the mountains, with a qualified leader.

  • LevelBeginner
  • DurationFull day
  • GroupSmall group or private
5.0· 76 Google reviews
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Course summary

Introduction to mountaineering course in the Pyrenees

The foundations for moving through mountain terrain with good judgement: progression over different types of terrain, basic use of technical equipment and first notions of safety, with an AEGM / UIMLA-qualified mountain leader. It is the first level of our mountaineering pathway.

Mountaineer on a rocky ridge in the Pyrenees, with a reservoir and the mountain range behind
  • AreaVal d'Aran, Pyrenees
  • DurationFull day
  • GuideJavier Gil
  • GroupSmall group or private
  • LevelBeginner

Before you sign up

Is it for you?

You'll love it if…

  • You already walk in the mountains but have never used an ice axe or crampons
  • You want to step up to more technical terrain safely
  • You are preparing for a future ascent that needs technical equipment

It may not be the course for you if…

  • You already want group management or rescue skills (see the improvement course)
  • You have no habit of walking in the mountains
Javier Gil
AEGM / UIMLA-qualified mountain leader · Ecotour Experiences

Who will be with you on this course

Javier Gil

Javier always starts on easy ground, even if the group is keen to head straight for the snow: he wants to see how each person walks, how they carry their rucksack and how they react to sustained elevation gain before introducing an ice axe or crampons.

The aim of the course is not to complete a summit, but for you to leave able to read mountain terrain with your own judgement: when a section is safe, when more care is needed and when it is better not to continue.

Course highlights

Why take this course

Course content

What you'll learn

  • Progression over different types of terrain: path, easy rock and snow, depending on the season
  • Basic use of the ice axe and crampons: how to walk with them and simple self-arrest
  • Elementary reading of terrain conditions and risk
  • First notions of planning a mountain outing

Before you come

What to bring. Stiff or semi-stiff mountain boots, walking poles, technical mountain clothing in layers. Technical equipment (ice axe, crampons) can be provided on request.

Prerequisites. None, although it helps to be used to walking in the mountains.

Included

  • AEGM / UIMLA-qualified mountain leader throughout the day.

    Mountain leader
  • The outing is tailored to the group before you start.

    Planning

Not included

  • To the meeting point.

    Transport
  • Unless a loan is agreed.

    Individual technical equipment
  • Your own, for the day.

    Food and drink

Frequently asked questions

What people ask us

01Do I need my own equipment (ice axe, crampons)?

We let you know when we confirm. In many cases the basic technical equipment can be provided.

02What level of fitness do I need?

A basic one, with a willingness to learn. No previous experience in technical mountaineering is needed.

03Does it include a night in a refuge?

No, it is a day format. If you are looking for an overnight stay, see the advanced bushcraft course.

04Does it run at any time of year?

It depends on snow and terrain conditions. The leader chooses the best date according to the aim of the course.

05Who leads the course?

A qualified Ecotour mountain leader.

06How many people are in a group?

A small or private group. The number is agreed when the date is confirmed.

Reviews

What our travellers say about us

Excellent5.0
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