From mountain photography to ice-climbing try it all at this summer festival in the French Alps

"Although it's late afternoon, people are still heading up the mountain, and there are two clear groups. On one side are the tourists, who are about to be lifted into unfamiliar frozen realms at 3,375 metres (11,072ft), hoping to grab a picture and return. Mixed among them are the weathered faces of mountain experts: hikers confidently heading for a high-altitude hut, or climbers with coils of rope."

"But all is not lost. The aspiring adventurer, no matter what age or background, can begin the journey to competence in the mountains. The annual mountain festival I am attending aims to facilitate that by offering the chance to gain hands-on experience with experts. An ice-climbing lesson. Photograph: Piotr Drozdz"

"I have been up on the glacier with an Italian Alpine guide, who was coaching me in crossing the ice safely. Next to me when I make it to the lemon sorbet is Meta, a musician from Berlin, who has just been rock climbing. I've only ever climbed indoors, she says. But I want to get experience outdoors. This seemed the perfect way to start."

"The Arc'teryx Alpine Academy in Chamonix began 16 years ago with a focus on rock climbing, but has since extended its range. There's now a UK festival too in the Lake District in May. These days, there's tuition in everything f"

A day of hiking across the Col d’Entreves glacier ends with an ice-cream stop below Mont Blanc. People queue for the cable car in two groups: tourists seeking quick views at 3,375 metres and experienced mountain experts heading for huts or climbing routes. The idea is that anyone, regardless of age or background, can start building mountain competence. An annual mountain festival in Chamonix provides hands-on experience with experts, including ice-climbing lessons. A participant learns safe glacier crossing with an Italian Alpine guide, then meets Meta, a Berlin musician who begins outdoor climbing after indoor-only experience. Another participant joins a climbing course and is teamed with Jim Pope. The Arc’teryx Alpine Academy, started in Chamonix 16 years ago, has expanded beyond rock climbing and now includes additional festivals such as one in the Lake District.

Read at www.theguardian.com