Adventure Climbing

NSAC AC Summer 2026: registrations will open on the 1st of Januari 2026.

This year we again offer an Adventure Climbing course. The main purpose of this course is to be able to safely and efficiently move in vertical alpine terrain. This will allow you to independently climb longer alpine multi pitch routes on your own gear. We will only organize one course week for 6-8 participants.

What will you learn or improve?

  • How to use trad gear (cams, nuts, etc.) while climbing multiple alpine pitches.
  • How to jam and crack climb.
  • How to build anchors using trad gear.
  • How to climb efficiently with trad gear (mental focus, techniques, and tactics).
  • How to finish a route if you get stuck (basic aid climbing techniques).
  • How to properly haul a backpack (basic hauling techniques).
  • How to read maps and guidebooks, plan your day, and manage approach and descent routes.

We will also dedicate time to the more theoretical side of traditional climbing, such as forces within the system and fall factors. Additionally, there will be opportunities during the course to focus on the individual learning goals of the participants.

Location & Dates

Preparation Weekend: Prior to the course, there will be a mandatory preparation weekend with all participants, the date of which will be communicated later.

Course Date: TBD

Price

The costs for AC are €960. This includes expenses for instructors, lifts, half board for the course week and the kick-off day, but without travel expenses and tour food.

(See here for the general terms and conditions.)

Required skills

  • Active SAC member
  • Have multipitch certificate and followed C1
  • Being able to easily onsight 6a+ outdoor in Belgium 80% of the time
  • Minimally Single pitch experience with Trad Climbing.

NSAC Instructor : Noël Diepens
Guide : Nicolas Bartalucci

Selection of Participants

The selection is based on the information provided during registration:

  • Meeting the required skill levels
  • Route list (Logbook)
  • Motivation
  • Additional experience and skills

This year, a pre-selection will be conducted prior to the kick-off. The NSAC will verify that you meet the entry requirements as well as the two fitness requirements for high-volume climbing days:

  1. Running/Cycling: The participant can run 7.5 km within 45 minutes OR cycle 50 km within 2 hours. You may choose between these two options.
  2. Hiking: The participant is capable of hiking 20 km with a 10 kg backpack. The target time for completion is within 5 hours.

Fitness requirements will be verified using Strava recordings. Please note: these Strava recordings must not be older than January 1, 2026, and must be submitted no later than February 28, 2026, 23:59 (further information regarding submission will follow after registration).

Registration

Registration opens again on January 1, 2026.