Saas-Fee 4000ers: A High-Alpine Summit Course

Day 1:  Arrival in Saas Fee and Hike to the Almagellerhütte

We meet at the Chamex office in the morning before driving to Saas-Almagell. From there, a gentle hike of around 3–4 hours takes us up to the Almagellerhütte, where we settle in for the night.
Accommodation: Almagellerhütte

Day 2: Dri Horlini Climb (3,056 m) & Technical Skills Training

Morning: Ascent of Dri Horlini 
Begin the day with a climb of this classic alpine training peak, ideal for practicing movement on rock in alpine boots. The route offers excellent terrain for rope work, basic scrambling, and team coordination in a high-mountain environment.
Afternoon: Mountaineering Techniques Workshop
After the climb, return to a suitable training area to focus on key alpine techniques, including rope handling, belaying, short-roping, and movement on mixed terrain. Emphasis will be placed on efficient and safe progression as a rope team in varied alpine conditions.
Accommodation : Night in Almagellerhutte

Day 3: Weissmies Ascent (4,017 m) via SE Ridge & Descent to Saas-Grund

Early Morning: Alpine start for the ascent of Weissmies via the scenic and moderately technical Southeast Ridge. This classic route offers stunning views and varied terrain, including glacier travel and sections of easy rock scrambling. Ideal for consolidating rope techniques and high-altitude movement skills.
Midday: Summit and return via the same route, followed by a descent to the Hohsaas lift station or directly down to Saas-Grund, depending on conditions and team energy.
Accommodation: Hotel in Saas Grund

Day 4: Ascent of Allalinhorn (4,027 m)

Morning: Ride the Metro Alpin to Mittelallalin (3,457 m) for an early start. From there, ascend the normal route via the Fee Glacier, a classic high-altitude climb that offers excellent terrain for practicing glacier travel, crampon technique, and rope team movement.
Summit: Reach the summit of Allalinhorn (4,027 m)—a superb 4000er with panoramic views over the Mischabel and Monte Rosa ranges.
Accommodation: Hotel in Saas Grund

Day 5: Ascent of Lagginhorn (4,010 m) & Overnight at Weissmieshütte

Early Morning: Begin the ascent of Lagginhorn (4,010 m) via the West Ridge (normal route). This climb features a mix of rocky scrambling and exposed ridge sections, providing an excellent opportunity to refine movement on dry alpine rock in high-altitude conditions.
Summit: Reach the summit of Lagginhorn, enjoying spectacular views over the Saastal and surrounding 4000m peaks. Focus on efficient rope techniques, route finding, and partner awareness on exposed ridgelines.
Afternoon: Descend back to the valley or Hohsaas area, then hike up to the Weissmieshütte (2,726 m) for a well-earned dinner and overnight stay. This sets the stage for the final day’s objective. Accommodation: Weissmieshütte

Day 6: Ascent of the Jegihorn (3,206 m) & Return to Chamonix

Morning: Final climb of the week—ascent of the Jegihorn. This peak offers an excellent alpine finale, with options including a classic scramble or the via ferrata (one of the highest in Europe), depending on group ability and preference. The route provides expansive views of the Saas Valley and surrounding 4000m peaks.
Late Morning to Early Afternoon: Descent to the valley and return to Chamonix. Time for a short debrief, equipment return, and farewell drinks if desired.

Physical Fitness:

Good physical fitness is essential for this course. You will be climbing four 4000m peaks over six days, so thorough preparation and training are strongly recommended.

Technical Skills:

Prior experience using crampons and an ice axe is required. If you haven’t climbed before, we recommend starting with our 3-day First Steps to Mountaineering course.

Acclimatisation:

If possible, spend some time above 3000m before the course. This will help you feel more comfortable and strong from day one.