The Polluce-Castor traverse represents a mountaineering route of great appeal, combining in a single, rewarding loop route the two twin peaks of Monte Rosa. Polluce and Castor, prestigious peaks and sought-after destinations among the Alpine four-thousanders, offer the opportunity to experience an intense day of snow mountaineering culminating in the conquest of both ‘Twins’.

Program

DAY 1

Meeting in Cuneo or directly in Val d'Ayas. The first day is dedicated to reaching the Rifugio Guide Val d'Ayas (or Lambronecca) located at the foot of the Great Verra Glacier at 3,425m. It is advisable to use a Jeep service that takes you from St. Jacques to Piano Superiore di Verra, avoiding the long dirt road. In about 3 hours of walking you reach the refuge where you spend the night.

DAY 2

Departure from Rifugio Val d'Ayas, ascending the Great Verra Glacier toward the South Ridge of Polluce. Here begins the climb to the first 4000m peak of the day, the ascent is facilitated by a section equipped with chains. You quickly reach the Madonna of Polluce and after a few minutes, through an airy and spectacular snowy ridge, the summit at 4,089m. You then descend via the ascent route and after a short break you climb eastward toward the striking and imposing west face of Castor. The climb is steep, with sections up to 45° in the final part. Once on the ridge, an exhilarating view opens up, with the last meters along the skyline to reach the summit of Castor at 4,225m. From here begins the descent toward Felikhorn and then toward Rifugio Quintino Sella. From the refuge, descent on a marked trail to Colle Bettaforca and then with the help of the cable car or jeep you return to St. Jacques.

Necessary materials

Mountaineering equipment

• mountain boots, preferably with crampons or semi-crampons
• telescopic trekking poles
• harness
• helmet
• crampons
• ice axe

Harness, helmet, crampons and ice axe can be rented.

High mountain clothing

• thermal first layer
• technical sweatshirt or fleece
• down jacket or padded jacket
• Goretex jacket or similar windproof jacket
• mountaineering trousers
• warm gloves
• spare gloves
• cap or buff

Essential accessories

• sleeping bag sheet (mandatory in all high mountain refuges)
• category 3 or 4 sunglasses
• thermos or thermal flask
• sunscreen
• headlamp
• energy bars and basic medicines

Rates per person for private/pre-formed groups

Tariffe a persona per gruppi privati/precostituiti:

• 750€ - 1 persona
• 450€ - 2 persone