Ice World

If you've tried Scotland but don't like walking, or Alpine summers always seem too hot - then Ice World trips could be the answer to your dreams! There's no end to adventures on ice and our aim is to bring you the very finest with a diverse program of ice climbing holidays. Catering for beginners and connoisseurs alike, low ratios give us the flexibility to tailor each itinerary to your personal requirements.
Dates All Alpine trips run Sunday evening to Saturday morning, with 5 days climbing. Canada and Lofoten trips offer 6 days climbing per week.

Ice Fall Intro

5 Days 2:1 Introductory/Intermediate £900 Dates 18-24 Jan

The perfect opportunity to learn all the skills and techniques needed for winter icefall climbing. Applying our philosophy of learning through doing, we climb classic ice routes right from day one. Topics covered include climbing technique, placing ice screws for runners and belays, single-handed screw placement, leash systems, and retreat etc. For those with suitable experience, we offer lead coaching during the course. Previous experience using ice axes and crampons, plus basic rope-work is essential. However, the more climbing experience you have, the further we can go!

Cogne

5 Days 2:1 Intermediate/Advanced £675 Dates 4-10 Jan

Five superb days private guiding with Twid Turner, in the Ice climbing capital of Italy. The famous classics of the valley could be yours, and Twids local knowledge will also help you find the hidden gems that visitors rarely climb! The fee includes guides fee and expenses only, based on a 1:2 ratio. You need to provide a vehicle for the week and we have negotiated a special deal at the Hotel La Barme of just 42 Euro pppn half board in twin rooms/60 Euro for single rooms.

Chamonix

5 Days 2:1 Intermediate/Advanced £950 Dates 11-17 Jan

A great week of dedicated icefall climbing in the Chamonix valley. Cham in winter is a beautiful spot, boasting excellent ice climbing and unbeatable scenery. Through the week you will visit several classic venues in and around the valley, as well as travelling to neighbouring regions where conditions are particularly good. Approaches are generally short, leaving plenty of energy to enjoy evenings in town or even a spot of winter alpinism at the Grand Montets or Aiguille du Midi.

Couloir Climbing

5 Days 2:1 Intermediate/Advanced £950 Dates 21-27 March 4-10 April

The Mont Blanc range has the highest concentration of winter couloir climbs anywhere in the world, many of which are readily accessible with snowshoes or skis. On this unique trip, you can sample the delights of long technical ice routes in a high alpine environment. This is a challenging week, best suited to keen winter climbers and alpinists who have already climbed Scottish III/IV. Mountain huts may be used to maximise climbing time.

Kandersteg

5 Days 2:1 Intermediate/Advanced £995 Dates Dec 2004

Word is out about the amazing climbs found tucked away in this picturesque corner of Switzerland. The area boasts some of the most dramatic icefalls in Europe, and for those with mixed leanings, the area sports some excellent modern dry tooling venues.

La Grave

5 Days 2:1 Intermediate/Advanced £995 Dates Jan 2005

A one-week special in the ice climbing Mecca of France. It's possible to check out the conditions from the hotel window, as the icefalls are so close to town! Later in the week, we take the opportunity to travel to other top venues around the region.

Lofoten Islands

6 Days 2:1 Intermediate/Advanced £1195 Dates Feb/March 2005

Imagine a place with 50 Skye ridges jumping straight out of the sea, more ice than Canada, and oh yes, in 6 weeks climbing we haven't met a single other party on the hill. Exclusive to Alpine Guides, we give you the chance to take part in developing one of the most incredible winter climbing regions on Earth. Situated off the west coast of Arctic Norway, the Lofoten Islands offer thousands of unclimbed ice lines of all grades, with mountain routes and mixed climbing too. Clients are welcome to join us for either or both of our two weeks stay. Self-catering accommodation is in cosy Norwegian cabins, food and car hire is included in the price. Flights to the region cost approx £500 and we are happy to assist with your booking.

Canada

6 Days 2:1 Intermediate/Advanced Price TBC March 2005