Olan, Alpine summit in Écrins National Park, France
Olan is an alpine summit in Ecrins National Park with three distinct peaks, the highest reaching 3,564 meters (11,693 feet) above sea level. The mountain overlooks three major valleys and features steep rock faces with several established climbing routes of varying difficulty.
The first ascent took place in July 1875 when guides Gabriel and Josef Spechtenhauser led British climber Richard Pendlebury to the summit. This early climb marked the beginning of the mountain's place in alpine mountaineering history.
The climbing routes on this peak, including the Teddy Bear Pillar and Couzy-Desmaison route, draw mountaineers from around the world who seek challenging ascents. These paths have become part of the shared language of alpine climbing in this region.
Font-Turbat refuge offers shelter and serves as the main base for climbers tackling the north face routes. Most visitors need solid mountaineering experience and should plan their approach during stable weather windows.
The rock structure displays a distinctive formation with a granite base topped by a visible gneiss cap on the northwest face. This unusual geological composition makes the mountain instantly recognizable to experienced mountaineers and climbers.
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