The Haute Route (Chamonix - Zermatt) is a unique high level glacier tour through the highest mountains of the Alps which was first completed in the summer of 1861 by members of the Alpine Club. One hundred and forty years later (August 2001), a Malvern College CCF party completed the same route in a single nine-day progression.

The party of 8, including 4 cadets, assembled in Chamonix on July 31st after spending the previous day travelling from various locations in the UK. August 1st was a hot day during which the party completed some valuable glacier training on the Glacier de Pelerins high above the Chamonix valley. On this occasion the party also witnessed - at very close quarters - the helicopter evacuation of a climbing party from the impressive spires of the Aiguille du Midi.

The following nine consecutive days were a kaleidoscope of pre-dawn breakfasts; long periods of walking on ice whilst roped to two companions; majestic mountain panoramas; yawning crevasses - crossed with a tight rope; snowstorms, white-out and zero visibility; nights of fitful sleep - caused by altitude and snoring companions. All of these aspects of the trip were held together by the tremendous friendship and camaraderie among the party members.

This was a very special mountaineering experience. Completion of the Haute Route is itself a tremendous achievement, but to accomplish it in a single nine-day progression is exceptional. Our party was fortunate in having ground conditions and weather that enabled this to be achieved. The total distance covered was in the region of 100km, and the height gained was in excess of 7000 metres.