Day 1: Our journey begins with a meeting at the Staffal ticket office in Gressoney at 2:30 PM. Here, we’ll undergo an essential equipment check and receive the necessary technical gear. The adventure kicks off with a scenic ascent via cable car to Colle della Bettaforca, standing proudly at 2700 meters. From this point, we immerse ourselves in the breathtaking alpine landscape during a 3 to 3.5-hour trek, finally reaching the Quintino Sella Refuge at 3585 meters. As the day concludes, we share a hearty dinner and settle in for the night, surrounded by the calmness of the high-altitude refuge.

Day 2: With the first light of dawn, we set out for the summit of Punta Castore at 4226 meters, a journey of approximately 3.5 hours. After capturing the ritual photos to immortalize the moment, we return to Quintino Sella Refuge for a well-deserved lunch. The afternoon is dedicated to a comprehensive course, delving into rescue maneuvers, setting up a hoist for crevasse rescues, mastering roped team tying methods, and perfecting the art of progression on snowy ridges and glaciers. The day concludes with a satisfying dinner and another night at the Quintino Sella Refuge.

Day 3: Our adventure continues with the traverse of the Naso del Lyskamm at 4100 meters, tracing the tracks of the renowned Trofeo Mezzalama. We pass the base of the imposing south face of Lyskamm, reaching the summit of Balmenhorn at 4167 meters, crowned by the Christ of the Peaks. A light packed lunch provides sustenance for our journey towards Capanna Margherita, the highest refuge in Europe, where we spend the night surrounded by the majesty of the mountains.

Day 4: We awaken to witness the sunrise casting its golden glow on the peaks before ascending Punta Zumstein at 4561 meters. The descent begins, taking us across the Colle del Lys, reaching the Vincent Pyramid at 4215 meters, and eventually arriving at Rifugio Città di Mantova for a leisurely lunch. Our descent continues to Punta Indren, where lifts await to carry us back to Staffal. With memories etched in our minds and the accomplishment of this alpine odyssey, we estimate our return around 4:30 PM.

Challenge Level: F to PD – Involves ice hiking with segments traversing the ridge.

Physical fitness is essential.
This four-day program has been designed as a rigorous challenge, aiming to thoroughly test and enhance your mountaineering skills. Throughout the expedition, participants will face a series of demanding scenarios that require a high level of proficiency in various mountaineering techniques. From conquering peaks exceeding 4000 meters to refining crampon techniques, mastering self-rescue maneuvers, and safely leading a roped party on glaciers, each day presents unique challenges that will push participants to their limits. This program is tailored for those who have a deep passion for mountaineering and aspire to tackle beautiful and formidable ascents. It is not just an adventure; it’s an opportunity to elevate and refine your mountaineering expertise under challenging conditions.