The Alpinism capital of Europe, home to the biggest skiing in the Alps.
Chamonix and Courmayeur, on opposite sides of Mont Blanc, represent the birthplace of alpinism and the epicenter of mountaineering history. A ski trip to these mountain valleys is a necessary pilgrimage for any serious skier. Extreme ski technique was invented on the slopes of Chamonix by living legend Sylvain Saudan, who still skis daily. With classic runs including the Vallée Blanche, the Pas de Chèvre, and the Col du Plan, and the famous Aiguille du Midi tram rising 2,800m from Chamonix in 20 minutes, it’s no wonder that this is the most hyped location in the Alps.
The Chamonix Valley is one of the mountain world’s most impressive spectacles. Impossibly steep, with needle-like “Aiguilles” lining the ridgelines. Even more impressive is the ambitious lift system that access these mountains; one trip on the Aiguille du Midi tram and you’ll never see a ski lift the same way again. You’ll be skiing in the high alpine, so harnesses and other crevasse-rescue gear are a must. The glacial skiing, classic steep faces and long ski-touring potential are second to none, which makes Chamonix the epicenter of ski alpinism. If you want to test your skills on the steep stuff, our UIAGM guides are ready to bust out the ropes and get you right into it. The Glacier Ronde, the Couloir Cosmiques and a dozen other classics beckon. Rest assured, there are also dozens of less-extreme options that are just as spectacular.
The Courmayeur side is not as busy, and being Italy, la dolce vita prevails. The skiing is just as fantastic, and depending on your tastes, you might say the food is even better. Between the main resort of Courmayeur and the high-alpine Heilbronner trams, there is something for every skiers’ desire. Spring snow in the steep couloirs on the Italian side are what we love Courmayeur for, followed by long sunny lunches on a deck with a view of your line. With the option of ski-touring from some of Mont Blanc’s satellite areas, and even a day of heliskiing under Mont Blanc or in in Valgrisenche, a trip to Chamonix and Courmayeur is an adventure every skier deserves.
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Highlights
Epic Europe is a luxury experiential adventure travel operator based in the Swiss Alps.
Epic Europe specializes in private bespoke itineraries for small groups. Experiencing the best of each region, from interacting with the local people and enjoying authentic regional food and wine, as well as time-honored traditions and festivals, to recreating in the alpine landscape, and truly understanding why the Alps are the birthplace of adventure travel. From custom ski, hiking, or cycling trips to building in city tours, cultural itineraries, or gastronomic discovery, these award-winning, multi-dimensional trips are tailored to our clients' wishes every time, and are not packaged tours. From Switzerland, Italy, and France's Alps, to world-class cultural cities and larger towns, Epic Europe can design a tailored adventure that fulfills your every need.
Would you like more information, or to have us create a tailored trip for you? We would be glad to begin the design process for your ultimate experience in the Alps.
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