This much sort after version of the Haute Route makes the entire traverse between Chamonix and Zermatt on foot, by taking the intricate Grand Lui variation via the St Bernard monastory.
The tour takes at least a day longer than the standard routes and requires higher levels of fitness and ski ability in order to deal with the increased length and difficulties.
We offer this itinerary as a private guiding special - with dates by arrangement from mid March into late April. Prices are as per our private guiding rates, up to a maximum of 3 skiers per guide.
Starting Point The famous ski capital of Chamonix. The resort can be reached easily by road, or via airport transfer from Geneva.
Sample ItinerarySubject to snow and weather conditions, we aim to follow the Grand Lui route as follows:
Day 0
PM meet in Chamonix - discuss plans, sort food and kit, overnight in valley.
Day 1
Catch the first lift up the Grand Montets before traversing the Col du Chardonnet and on to the Aig. Dorees bivouac hut.
Day 2
An early start to traverse the Col de la Grande Lui and then ski the huge 1900m descent down to La Fouly.
Day 3
A steady traverse over the Fenetre de Ferret to the famous Grand St Bernard monastory where we stop for the night.
Day 4
Descend to Bourg St Bernard, before making the intricate traverse around Mt Velan to the Valsorrey hut.
Day 5
The committing climb over the Plateau du Couloir before descending the Mt Durand Glacier to the Chanrion hut.
Day 6
Ascent of the Otemma Glacier, or if conditions allow - a traverse of the Pigne d'Arolla to the Vignettes hut.
Day 7
There are few days to compare. In 30km of skiing we cross 3 cols, 7 glaciers and climb 1100m, before descending down past the Matterhorn to Zermatt.
Day 8
Spare day in case of poor weather. (Having a day in hand greatly increases our chances of completing the route).
Food and AccommodationThis is tour is run on a private guiding basis, so food and accommodation (for yourself and the guide) must be paid for as we go along.
Fitness The Grand Lui variation to the Haute Route is a demanding tour, which requires high levels of fitness (see fitness level 4) - so we advise you to prepare well in advance with regular cardiovascular training and big days out in the hills, preferably on skis.
Skiing Ability You need to have completed at least a couple of week long ski tours in recent seasons and be a good off piste skier in all conditions (see: ski ability level 4). The route involves regular 8-10 hour days with 1000m+ of ascent a day.
Equipment We will supply you with a full kit list. You are responsible for bringing personal clothing, a rucsac and ski mountaineering skis, boots and kit (local hire is available). We are delighted to be working on this tour with Back Country UK, who provide excellent service and advice as a leading retailer of ski mountaineering equipment in the UK.
