Beginner Mountaineering Course (ALPI 1)

Beginner mountaineering course in the Spanish Pyrenees

Learn the foundations of winter mountaineering with PirineoSur on a two-day ALPI 1 course near Jaca. The programme focuses on movement on snow, ice-axe and crampon techniques, snow anchors and basic rope work in the Aragón and Tena valleys.

No previous mountaineering experience is required. You need enough stamina for a full day walking in the mountains and no problems with vertigo. The course also suits hikers moving into winter terrain and people with some experience who want to develop their foundations.

What will you learn?

• Basic movement on snow and ice, with and without an ice axe and crampons.
• Self-arrest, snow anchors, belaying and introductory rope techniques.
• Terrain reading, hazard identification and basic mountain risk management.
• Avalanche rescue practice using a transceiver, probe and strategic shovelling.
• Accident response and introductory self-rescue skills.

The aim is to build basic skills for winter mountain terrain and straightforward snow couloirs. Qualified professionals teach prevention and rescue techniques using appropriate technical equipment; the route and teaching are adapted to the group and conditions.

Location, dates and group size

The usual area is the Aragón valley around Candanchú, with the Tena valley used according to snow conditions. There are two full practical days, normally over a weekend, in groups of 1 to 10 participants.

2026/27 dates: December: 5–6, 7–8, 12–13, 19–20, 26–27. January: 2–3, 9–10, 23–24, 30–31. February: 6–7, 20–21, 27–28. March: 13–14, 20–21, 25–26, 27–28. The season runs from December to April. You can join a group on your own; ask about availability.

Prices and equipment

• 1 participant: €550.
• Group of 2: €295 per person.
• Group of 3: €225 per person.
• Group of 4–10: €175 per person.

Prices include VAT and the listed technical equipment. Ice axe, crampons, helmet, harness and avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe are available if needed. Initial assistance and civil liability insurance, technical advice and photographs/video are included. Accommodation, meals and transport are not included.

Bring waterproof mountain boots, layered winter clothing and the personal items listed below. Rigid or semi-rigid boots are preferable. Read the detailed programme and requirements, then contact PirineoSur to choose dates, check availability and receive booking and payment instructions.