Thursday 27th June 2019

 “The biggest adventure you can take us to live the life of your dreams”,                                                                   Oprah Winfrey 

Mount Elbrus is the highest mountain in Russia and is also the highest mountain in the Caucasus Range in southern Russia near the border with Georgia. 

Mt Elbrus lies on the geographical dividing line between Europe and Asia, but most geographers consider it to be the highest mountain in Europe.   Many people think Mount Blanc is the highest mountain in Europe, but Elbrus is in fact the highest mountain on the European continent. 

Mount Blanc sits at 4,807m (15,771ft) compared to Elbrus at 5,642m (18,510ft).  Elbrus is also considered much colder in temperature than Mont Blanc.

Elbrus is one of the Seven Summits.  The Seven Summits are the highest mountains of each of the seven continents.  Summiting all of them is regarded as a mountaineering challenge, first postulated as such in the 1980’s by Richard Bass. Photo taken of internet

Elbrus is considered an inactive volcano and is perpetually snow-covered with an icecap and 22 glaciers.  So bearing this in mind and with an elevation of 5642 metres, Mount Elbrus is a fine ascent which requires mountaineering skills, although altitude and unpredictable weather make for a challenging and adventurous trip.

To successfully climb the mountain a good level of aerobic fitness and leg strength is required.  The climb is also cold, meaning energy will be lost quickly.  Even someone in good physical shape can fail to summit Mount Elbrus. Photo taken of internet Climbing Elbrus takes roughly a week, including acclimatisation hikes.  Summit day is a lengthy one with over 1,900 metres of altitude to be gained, taking about 12-14 hours.  So in preparation for the climb we have tried to develop endurance and stamina, undertaking many practice climbs and hikes which are the best options as well as hitting the gym.  Also getting comfortable with my backpack and carrying weight has been another focus. And the biggy – preparing mentally!   At some point on Mount Elbrus I know I will likely find myself in a difficult situation that is way outside my comfort zone.  Whether it be cold weather, strong winds, a long summit day, along with the whole physical challenge! So the plan is to head to Russia for 16 days, starting TOMORROW!