Short Ascent – Long Descents

The proven concept “short ascents – long descents” reinvented? Not quite, but it’s simply a good idea!

On this trip we go where the snow in the Alps is best! From an affordable but cosy hotel we head out every day using lifts, cable cars and skins to reach exciting freeride tours. Hopefully great snow and long descents await us — with the least possible ascent (maximum 1–3 hours per day).

• Short ascents on foot or with skins from the ski area
• Long, partly exotic descents
• Adventure skiing
• cozy & affordable hotel

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Requirements:
Technique: solid, descent-oriented skiing technique
Fitness: stamina for long descents and motivation for shorter ascents (short is always relative!)
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In 2026 we are heading to Courmayeur!

Courmayeur / Mont Blanc

Courmayeur at the foot of Mont Blanc is a paradise for freeriders and everyone who wants to feel the fascination of big mountains. Wide slopes, steep couloirs and endless variations invite you to experience the freedom off the pistes. The cable car takes you directly into the high-alpine terrain — always accompanied by views of the mighty peaks of the Mont Blanc massif. Whether deep powder or challenging terrain: Courmayeur combines alpine character with Italian joie de vivre and makes every descent an unforgettable experience.

Freeride adventures with experienced mountain guides

Together with our mountain guides we explore hidden gulches, wide slopes and steep descents — always searching for the best snow and maximum safety. These unique areas invite unforgettable adventures off the beaten track.

Courmayeur

Courmayeur is a charming mountain village with narrow streets, cosy cafés and Italian flair. From the village the cable car opens up the extensive terrain on Mont Blanc. This incredible backdrop offers countless options for freeriders looking for adventure: wide powder slopes, hidden tree runs and long routes down to the valley. Anyone who loves big mountains will find alpine variety in an impressive setting here.

Chamonix

Directly on the north side of the Mont Blanc massif lies Chamonix. The world-famous mountaineering town also offers beautiful and spectacular descents. Thanks to the cable cars, the two sides can be easily combined, so it’s worth grabbing the baguette on the French side in the morning.

Experience the best of Courmayeur:

• Travel time: About 5 hours from central Switzerland – through the tunnel from Chamonix to Courmayeur

• Snow reliability: The high mountains of the Western Alps intercept the big storms, so it is not uncommon for large amounts of snow to fall in the Mont Blanc massif. With the Helbronner cable car we reach up to 3,466 m above sea level, so we should find snow.

• Lift facilities: There are various options from Courmayeur. The south side takes you into spectacular high-alpine terrain. A little further from the village you can access Mont Chétif, which offers many playful runs. There is also plenty of room for day trips & ski safaris: e.g. to Pila, La Thuile, Cervinia or Chamonix

• Off the beaten track: Countless options give us the chance to find some peace away from the classics.

Costs

Since the skiing experience is our priority, “additional costs” are kept as small as possible.

• All fees and expenses for the mountain guides are included in the price.
• We will not stay in a five-star hotel. Small but nice is the motto here.
• Breakfast is included. For dinner we go to local pizzerias and similar. Additional lunch provisions on the go will be added if needed.
• Ski tickets required are not included in the price.
• Travel expenses are settled directly with the driver according to recommendations. Carpooling will be coordinated.

Philosophy

The proven concept “short ascents – long descents” remains the core of our program — unbeatable for everyone who loves great descents!

Our principles:

• Ascent aids: Lifts, cable cars, skins, buses, trains – we use whatever gets us to the goal most efficiently.
• Goal: The best descents, not the summits.
• Difficulty: Varied tours for experienced freeriders and/or ski tourers.
• Accommodation: Affordable and cosy so you can focus on what matters – skiing.
• Coaching: Tips & tricks on ski technique, avalanche assessment and more during the tours.
• Training: Regular training blocks for companion rescue are part of the program.

Arrival & departure

• Duration: 5 hours from central Switzerland to Courmayeur
• Group travel: We travel in private cars or with a shared bus. Coordination of carpooling will be done in advance.

Flexibility and group size

• Flexibility: We adapt the program if the snow conditions are poor.
• Groups: Two groups with different levels and programs so everyone gets what they want.
• Group size: Ideal is 4–6 participants per guide.

Mountain guides

• Dani Perret
• Julian Fürsinger