I invite you to take part in winter training courses designed to prepare you for independently undertaking mountain activities in winter conditions. In addition to being a certified high mountain guide, I work professionally with avalanche safety as a dog handler in the TOPR mountain rescue service. The courses I organize offer a substantial dose of practical, experience-based knowledge.

Why train?

In the Tatras, as in all similar mountain ranges, winter brings the constant threat of avalanches. This danger is very real — statistically, once an avalanche is triggered, the chance of survival drops to just 50%. Based on my experience as both a rescuer and a guide, I’m convinced that many serious accidents could have been avoided through proper knowledge and preparation.

The knowledge I share during these courses stems from years of practical experience as well as the latest international research and standards in mountain safety. Participating in one of these courses will not only increase your personal safety but could also prove crucial if you ever witness a mountain accident.

How do the courses work?

These trainings are intended for both hikers and ski tourers. I offer two types of three-day courses, conducted from mountain huts in the Tatra Mountains, which include lectures and, most importantly, practical field training:

Winter Mountain Hiking Course
Duration: 3 days
Location: Tatra mountain huts
Topics include: Route planning, equipment and physical preparation, basics of moving in avalanche terrain, use of avalanche safety gear (beacon, probe, shovel), practical training in using crampons and ice axes, emergency procedures and response

Ski Mountaineering Course
Duration: 3 days
Location: Tatra mountain huts
Topics include: Route planning and risk assessment, equipment and fitness preparation, safe travel on skis in avalanche terrain, uphill and downhill techniques in steep terrain, transitioning between climbing and skiing in exposed areas, rope use in ski mountaineering, emergency response in backcountry situations

Prices & Important Information

• Pricing depends on the group size and type of course; details are arranged individually
• Courses are conducted for up to 6 participants
• Each course lasts three days and includes two nights in a mountain hut
• I do not organize open groups — participants must form their own group (e.g., friends or acquaintances)
• The larger the group (up to 6), the lower the per-person cost
• Solo participants are welcome if they are prepared to cover the full cost of the course
• Training dates are set individually based on availability
• Proper insurance is required for all mountain outings in Slovakia
• Other important information is available here

I invite you to join me for professional winter training courses in the Tatra and Alpine mountains with an IVBV-certified guide.