This retreat involves moderate-to-strenuous hiking and trekking, along with comfort at high-altitude viewpoints and platforms. Outings may cover up to 10 miles round trip with 2,500-3,000 feet of elevation gain, sometimes over difficult and uneven terrain. At other times, we'll take gondolas to elevations around 12,000 feet above sea level to shoot from viewpoints and platforms. A baseline level of cardiovascular fitness is important coming into the retreat. If you have concerns, reach out and we can discuss modifications. All outings are optional.

We'll provide a full camera gear list after registration, breaking down everything required or recommended. Participants typically bring one or two camera bodies (mirrorless or DSLR), several lenses, and a tripod. We recommend covering your cameras, lenses, and other valuable equipment under your own personal insurance policy, including theft, damage, and loss protection. These items are not covered by the trip provider.

We'll provide a full packing list after registration, including hiking gear such as comfortable boots, layers, sun protection, puffy jackets, and rain jackets. We'll be hiking in the Alps in September across a range of elevations. Days can be warm, but nights get cold, especially at altitude, and weather can be unpredictable, so come prepared for a range of conditions. Synthetic layers, such as wool or fleece, are better than cotton. All lodging, including the chalet and the alpine hut, is fully equipped, so no overnight or sleeping gear is needed.

Your Chamonix Retreat includes most meals, those prepared by your hosts as well as meals out at restaurants, aside from a small number noted separately. You'll be asked to share any dietary restrictions before the retreat so we can accommodate your needs. We can accommodate most dietary restrictions as long as they're noted on the Guest Form. Certain settings, like alpine huts, may not be able to accommodate every diet, so a suitable meal may need to be arranged in advance and brought along. Please note that if you select a specific diet, a special meal will be prepared just for you, and that's what you'll be served; substitutions on short notice may not be possible.

Because this retreat is physically active, proof of international medical coverage is required for all guests. Your primary insurance may already include international medical coverage, so it's worth checking. You'll provide your policy information on the Guest Form after your deposit. Travel insurance is also strongly suggested in case you need to cancel for any reason and wouldn't otherwise be eligible for a refund; see our cancellation policy for details. If purchased within 7 days of your deposit, travel insurance can often cover a full refund if you're unable to join, and many policies also include emergency air transport. Medical coverage is required; travel insurance is optional but recommended. Reach out if you'd like suggestions.

Absolutely. Most participants join solo, which tends to lead to great connections within the group. Solo participants who register for a shared room will be matched with a compatible roommate based on your form responses. You may also upgrade to a private room for an additional fee. If you and a friend or family member are both registering and would like to share a room, let us know in your Guest Form (following registration/signup) and we'll make sure you're placed together.

Geneva International Airport (GVA) is closest to the chalet and is the airport for our arranged private shuttle at a designated day and time. Flying into a different airport (Paris, Zurich, or elsewhere) means arranging your own transport to Chamonix. We recommend GVA for the simplest logistics.

Yes. You're welcome to arrive early or stay later to explore the Chamonix Valley, the Alps, or beyond. We're happy to help arrange additional nights at the chalet (subject to availability, at an added cost) or recommend other local lodging. Please note that independent travel before or after the retreat may fall outside our arranged Geneva airport transfer, in which case you'd be responsible for arranging and covering your own transport to the private chalet. Reach out to discuss your plans.

A $1,000 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your spot. The remaining balance is split into two payments: 50% due at 150 days before the retreat start date, and the remaining balance due at 90 days before the retreat start date. You're welcome to pay any portion early if you prefer. Please see our cancellation policy for details on refunds and credits at each stage.

Deposits are non-refundable. Please review our full terms and conditions, including the cancellation and refund policy, before booking.