Contamine

ZOOM ++

Great cassic trad route, long, always interesting and well-protected. The face receives the sun and is fairly sheltered from the wind. Climbing is therefore possible from mid-spring onwards, and is best combined with a magnificent ski to Chamonix down the Vallée Blanche (or, for those coming from Italy, a tiring ascent back up to Col Flambeau).

ACCESS

Pointe Lachenal is located about half-way between Aiguille du Midi and Punta Helbronner.

DESCENT

Abseil down “Le Bon Filon” to the left; the penultimate abseil leads diagonally right to a small terrace (and the Contamine belay), from which a final abseil leads back to the start of the route.

GEAR

A set of of nuts and friends up to size 3. The route is equipped with numerous in-situ pegs and there are many variations on the lower, easier section of the route.