Hi,

I am currently looking for alpine courses/guides in Chamonix and Zermatt for the month of August to get a solid introduction into mountaineering. I have a history in rock climbing (5'10) and competitive swimming at a national level. I was wondering if there are any recommendations for guides from your previous experience?

What other advice can you offer to a beginner who is eager to begin to learn? I have started reading Freedom of the Hills as recommended the Alpinism 101 but have not found any mountaineering/climbing groups in the area. I am working in Paris currently so if you know any groups here that would be great!

Any help would greatly appreciated!

Thanks!