Workshop: Roped Up to the Summit in Ailefroide
Set in the heart of the hamlet of Ailefroide, in the Écrins Massif, this retreat offers an immersive high-mountain experience where team spirit is built amid glaciers, rocky peaks, and iconic mountain huts. From roped-up glacier traverses to an introduction to rock climbing and group activities, this trip will introduce you to an exceptional natural environment.
Seminar Program
Day 1
- Arrival in Ailefroide
- A cozy dinner at the chalet-hotel or on the terrace
Day 2
- Guided Hike to the Glacier Blanc Shelter
- Lunch at the mountain hut overlooking the Pelvoux massif
- Cramponing and Rope Walking on the Glacier Blanc
- Return to Ailefroide and dinner on the terrace
Day 3
- Breakfast
- Navigating rocky terrain with a series of questions and group challenges
- Introduction to Rock Climbing or Team-Building Activity
- Lunch in Ailefroide
- End of the trip and departure
Activities
Hike to the Glacier Blanc Shelter & glacier trek
Led by a high-mountain guide, the ascent from Pré de Madame Carle offers a gradual introduction to the glacial environment. After climbing to the Glacier Blanc refuge, participants learn roped-up climbing techniques and get their first taste of using crampons on the glacier. The teams move through the glacial environment while roped together, learning vigilance, coordination, and mutual trust.
Navigating Rocky Terrain & Games
In Ailefroide, teams navigate a natural terrain strewn with obstacles, punctuated by challenges and questions about the mountains, wildlife, and the local area. It’s an activity that combines critical thinking, cooperation, and orienteering.
The day concludes with dinner at the Chalet Hôtel d’Ailefroide, an iconic historic establishment in the hamlet that first opened its doors in the early 20th century. The restaurant serves traditional mountain cuisine in the large garden of the Ecrins National Park.
Rock Climbing in Écrins – Half-Day (All Levels)
The Ailefroide climbing area offers numerous climbing routes for all skill levels. This activity lets you experience the mountains in a different way, in a unique atmosphere that’s a bit challenging—yet always safe. A true metaphor for our company!
Under the guidance of state-certified instructors, participants work in pairs to learn the basics of rock climbing or hone their skills—for more experienced climbers. All safety equipment is provided.
→ Up to 10 participants.
Lunch at the Engilberge Hotel
The seminar concludes with lunch on the terrace atthe Hotel Engilberge. This family-run hotel features local specialties, such as trout from the fishpond and blueberry pie, prepared according to the hotel’s traditional recipes.
Additional (optional) activities
, Challenge des Écrins (2 to 4 hours)
In teams of 6 to 8 people, participants explore on their own through various geolocation-based activities using digital tablets. These games allow participants to discover the park’s many treasures while fostering team spirit.
Accommodation
The trip is hosted at Gîte Leï Mendi, located in Ailefroide, in the heart of the Écrins National Park. This cozy lodge, popular with hikers and climbers, offers a simple and authentic setting surrounded by nature. It serves as an ideal base for mountain activities, right next to climbing sites and hiking trails.
Budget
Starting at €590 per person (based on 12 participants)
included
- Accommodations at Gîte Leï Mendi
- Ascent and guidance at the Glacier Blanc Shelter
- Cramponing and Glacier Travel
- Rock Climbing Activities and/or the Écrins Challenge
- Lunches and dinners included in the itinerary
- Guided by high-mountain guides
Not included
- Optional Activities and Custom Team-Building Activities
- Personal Expenses
- Services not listed in the program
- Travel Assistance, Repatriation, Baggage, and Trip Cancellation Insurance
Seminar—the place to be!
Combining high-mountain hiking, glacier trekking, and team challenges, this seminar in Ailefroide offers an immersive and engaging experience. It’s the perfect format for building team cohesion in an accessible yet challenging environment, in the heart of the Écrins.
Ready to plan your trip? Our team is here to help—feel free to contact us!
→ Pays des Écrins Tourist Office
04 92 23 36 12
contact@paysdesecrins.com or partenariats@paysdesecrins.com