The Company of the guides of Chamonix

Winter 2010 >> The Vallée Blanche >> The classic one

The Vallee Blanche is a wild ski run in the heart of the Mont-Blanc chain. The Vallee Blanche is unique for its variety of scenery and its sheer size and length. It is a high-altitude route, off-piste, ungroomed and on glaciers where caution is necessary. There are several different routes, the choice of which will depend on the condition of the glacier, the weather and the level of experience of the skiers. You will be accompanied by a qualified mountain guide who, from his experience and local knowledge, will choose the appropriate route enabling you to enjoy the magnificant scenery in total security.

The Vallee Blanche is skiable from December to May, depending on the snow conditions.

TECHNICAL LEVEL REQUIRED

Skiers must be able to control their speed, side-slip, ski at a safe speed and follow in tracks.

DURATION: From the departure in Chamonix to the return down into the valley you should allow 4 to 6 hours depending upon conditions and the route taken.

You are advised to bring along a snack or, if you prefer, it may be possible to stop at the Requin refuge (which is half-way down the Vallee Blanche) for lunch.

RESERVATIONS
You are advised to book well in advance (especially for week-ends). Your reservation will be guaranteed on payment of a 30 % deposit, payable to the Compagnie des Guides or with a credit card number. In case of cancellation due to bad weather your deposit will be refunded in full.

RENDEZ-VOUS:The evening before your outing, either by telephone or at “la Compagnie des Guides”, to speak with your guide.

MATERIEL & CLOTHINGNormal ski equipment is fine, however have your bindings checked. Your guide will provide the necessary safety equipment.
Clothing must be warm and wind-proof. You will also need gloves, a hat and sunglasses (a ruck-sack is useful to allow you to carry a picnic and of course your camera!).

RATES 2009 :
- Private group of up to 4 people : 285 € + 16 € each additional person (up to max. of 8)
The number maximum of people per guide depends of the glacier's conditions.
Actuely (begining of January, a guide take a maximum of 6 persons.
- Collective group: 76 € per person (min 3)

Prices do not include lifts.
In collective group kids must be, at least, 15 years old.