Experiencing an Expedition Training in the Pyrenees: An Unveiled Account
In the heart of the Pyrenees, a group of mountaineering enthusiasts embarked on a specialised course designed to hone their skills for safe and effective winter travel in mountainous terrain. Known for its ruggedness and seasonal snow coverage, the Pyrenees provided an ideal training ground for this Winter Skills Expedition.
The expedition, scheduled for 19-26 January 2026, focused on fundamental skills necessary for winter mountain travel, such as navigation in winter conditions, winter travel techniques, and snow safety and avalanche awareness. Led by 360 Expeditions, the course aimed to ensure participants gained practical experience and confidence for winter mountaineering or trekking.
The group began their descent on Friday morning, shedding their jackets due to the beautiful weather, and reached the Nordic ski path. Monday morning saw a supervised re-pack by Rolfe, but one pack of mini cards was missing. As the snow began to fall, the group wound their way up a Nordic Skiing path, preparing for the challenges ahead.
Throughout the week, the group practiced a variety of skills. They learned to use anchors, snow profiles, prusiking, and Avalanche Transceiver usage on Wednesday morning. The group also had the opportunity to learn ice climbing next to a 40m frozen waterfall near the Renclusa Refuge. However, one member, Rolfe, attempted to find an alternative route but ended up waist-deep in snow.
The group faced several challenges, including a large pack belonging to one member causing concern about carrying it, and a missing pack of mini cards. One member, Rolfe, also struggled with making a relatively simple task look difficult. Despite these setbacks, the group persevered, climbing, abseiling, and jumaring up and down all afternoon.
The group's journey took them to various locations, including a refuge in the Aneto region, which boasted electricity, water, and a bar. Lunch was taken in a car park, and snow shoes were fitted. The group reached the top of the Pyrenees in the late afternoon and enjoyed a stunning sunset.
However, the group's progress was slowed by knee-deep snow on the final rise, losing minutes and then hours. The Bridge of Mohammed was not crossed due to its icy condition. Despite these obstacles, the group's determination never wavered, and they continued to learn and grow.
The Winter Skills Expedition in the Pyrenees is more than just a holiday. It is a learning and practicing program, designed to equip participants with the essential skills necessary for winter mountaineering. For those seeking to conquer the winter mountains, this expedition offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain the knowledge and confidence needed to do so safely and effectively.
- Despite the beautiful weather, they shed their jackets as they descended, reaching the Nordic ski path on Friday morning.
- The group practiced various skills throughout the week, including using anchors, prusiking, and Avalanche Transceiver usage.
- Ice climbing was learning next to a 40m frozen waterfall near the Renclusa Refuge, though Rolfe faced some challenges in finding alternative routes.
- In the Aneto region, the group found a refuge boasting electricity, water, and a bar, where lunch was taken.
- The group's journey took them to the peak of the Pyrenees in the late afternoon, where they enjoyed a breathtaking sunset, despite being slowed by knee-deep snow on the final rise.
- This Winter Skills Expedition in the Pyrenees is not just a holiday; it is a learning and practicing program, designed for those seeking to conquer the winter mountains.
- For mountaineering enthusiasts, this expedition offers an exceptional chance to gain the knowledge and confidence required for safe and effective winter mountaineering.
