Paradiso

- ski tour in Italy's first national park and a 4000m peak

This tour makes a journey in Italy's first National Park, and includes a ski descent of Gran Paradiso, the only 4000m peak totally in Italy. The deep valleys and high summits of the Gran Paradiso are a long way from any ski lifts and have a serious feel. However, the extra uphill effort is rewarded by great ski touring, superb views of the south side on Mont Blanc, and plenty of pasta in the huts.

The trip duration is 7 days including arrival and departure. There are 5 days of guided skiing (there is also an option for an extra day skiing for those who would like to start with a warm up day).

Programme

The programme is subject to change depending upon weather and conditions.

Day 1  Meet in Chamonix at 7pm for a briefing on the week's activities (details of the rendezvous will be confirmed on booking). Night in hotel.

Day 2 Drive through the Mont Blanc tunnel into Italy and the village of Valnontey (near to Cogne). From here it is a 3.5 hour ascent to the Vittorio Sella hut (2584m).

Day 3  A long day (approx 8hrs) taking in a traverse of the Grand Serra (3552m) and descending to the Chabod refuge (2750m).

Day 4 The classic traverse of the Gran Paradiso (4061m). A long glacial ascent on skis (4-6 hrs) leads to the final rock ridge which we climb on foot. Descend back to the Vittorio Emanuele hut (2732m).

Day 5 Traverse across to the base of Ciarforon (3640m) and make a gentle descent passing under the Becca di Monciair (3544m). There is an option to make an ascent of the Colli Grand-Etret (3150) from here, or continue directly on down the Vallon di Selva to the village of Pont. Night in Eaux Rousses.

Day 6  Ascend to the Colle di Entrelor (3002m), and if conditions permit climb the Cima Di Percia Nord (3212m). Back to the col and a long, gentle descent down to Rhemes Notre-Dame in the Val de Rhemes. Drive back through the Mont Blanc tunnel to Chamonix. Night in hotel.

Day 7 Course departs
 

The group will be up to 6 skiers with 1 guide.