The Haute Route, (or The High Route or Mountaineers' Route) is the name given to a route undertaken on foot or by ski touring between Chamonix, France and Zermatt, Switzerland.

First charted as a summer mountaineering route by members of the Alpine Club in the mid 19th century, the route takes around 12 days running the 180 km from the Chamonix valley, home of Mont Blanc to Zermatt, home of the Matterhorn.

It's a long way to travel, especially for two novice trekees, but we're doing it for an extremely worthwhile cause that our school Lady Eleanor Holles is supporting and sure the incentive of earning money to help children affected by the travesty of war will spur us on through the Swiss Alps to our final destination. Any amount of money you can spare, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated. We haven't set a target amount but are relying on the generosity of our fellow plebians to help us raise as much money as possible. Thankyou!

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor us: War Child gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

Well, we made it arriving weary but elated at Zermatt on 24th September 12 days and 180 km after we left Chamonix. We encountered drenching rain, snow storms and clear blue autumn skies along the way and survived the altitude just! There are too many stories to recount but most of all we shall remember the majestic mountains and glaciers and the fellow travellers we met along the Haute Route particularly Karen and Rees with whom we shared a hazardous col crossing after a freak snowfall obliterated our path. Thanks to all those who have sponsored us and for those who haven't there's still time!