Ecrins Ice might be Europe's finest winter ice destination if not world's best. Located in the Ecrins National Park in France, there are dozens of various ice crags to be found there and especially Fournel and Freissinieres valley is full of pure ice climbs at every grade imaginable. Without a doubt, Freissinieres has become one of the world's most important ice climbing venues and Ice Climbing Ecrins known as the I.C.E. is one of the most important events of the site; for more than twenty years this festival has annually attracted hundreds of ice climbers from Europe and overseas.
Since its beginnings, the I.C.E. aims to bring ice climbers of all levels together to discover new climbing areas and have a good time on the ice. Since technology has rapidly developed over the past years, the event is also a great opportunity to try out the latest equipment the climbing industry has to offer. The event was created by, at that time 19 years old local climbing guide Gerard Pailheret, who has gained a reputation as a highly regarded mountain guide, a pioneer in the ascent of frozen waterfalls by whom a street at L'Argentière-la-Bessée was even named.
November 4, 2023 – Val Verzasca, Switzerland – The Verzasca Dam, an engineering marvel nestled in the picturesque Val Verzasca of Switzerland that stands 220 meters tall, became the stage for the climbing elite. Red Bull Dual Ascent, now in its
second edition, attracted 24 of the world's best…
Over recent years the event has attracted up to 1000 climbers which speaks really for itself; fantastic organization, facilities and of course the amazing ice on offer surrounded by scenic views makes for an unforgettable experience whether you are a beginner or pro; the I.C.E. is the unmissable event for all who are passionate and curious about mountaineering, and specifically ice climbing, dry tooling, ski touring and freeriding. Free initiation supervised by mountain guides, loan and testing gear, free massages from physios, even Celtic games, there is something for everyone from beginners to internationally known ice climbers at the festival.
So mark your calendars, 14th - 17th January 2016 at l’Argentière-la-Bessée is where you want to be: a moment where meetings, exchanges, initiation, training, performance, emotions and celebration come together. Sharpen your skis and ice axes!
Adam Ondra dominated the bouldering scene again and won a gold medal in the second World Cup competition in Salt Lake City. He took second place in the qualification and proceeded to the finals from the same position. This time, he was surprised by the victory and admits that a little luck was…
Adam Ondra completed today's finals in Meiringen, Switzerland, and won a gold medal in the first competition of this year's World Cup. He kept first place in bouldering continuously from the qualification until the very exciting finals. He was satisfied with his excellent form and appreciated a…
