Ice climbing: an unusual activity to discover!

In the resort of Champagny en Vanoise, at an altitude of 1,500 metres, stands an impressive sculpture. Three 24-metre-high arms, completely iced over, reproduce the (almost) real conditions of ice climbing. Made of wood and steel, the winter temperatures allow the ice to form... and cool the holidaymakers! The framework, although metal, gives the impression of seeing a frozen waterfall in the middle of nature, as the technique used to form the ice is so close to nature.

Between the Ice Tower and the Olympic bobsleigh run, the ingenuity of La Plagne's workers seems endless. There's plenty to keep winter sports fans and non-skiers alike entertained, with a plethora of activities, each more original and unique than the last.

The Ice Tower is an excellent training spot for professionals, but it's also a great starting point for travellers looking for a variety of activities. Once they've donned all the equipment provided by the organisers, apprentice climbers, whether beginners or a little more experienced, are ready to take the plunge; a little strength in the arms and off you go! Accompanied by a guide for two hours, this is an opportunity for them to learn the basic techniques of this type of climbing, and a host of new sensations...

More experienced climbers can access the structure independently, with their own equipment, for a daily fee or by subscription. The three arms are therefore used by all levels of climber, a place where knowledge can be shared in the heart of the La Plagne mountains. The simplest ramps lean at 80°C and are perfectly suited to budding climbers. The more skilled climbers can take on overhangs and dry-tooling walls (climbing with ice axes on resin holds) to toughen up their skills.

Unique in Europe, the Tour hosts numerous professional competitions. In 2015, it even hosted a crucial stage in the Ice Climbing World Cup! All the more reason to delight the curious spectators who come to cheer on the athletes. The combination of speed and height makes for a difficult but impressive event. In January 2023, the World Cup will once again be held in the steel structure of La Plagne. The luckiest holidaymakers will have the chance to attend one of the competitions held there each season. Champagny-en-Vanoise has also been chosen to host the European Ice Climbing Cup!