Mont Blanc

The highest peak in western Europe • 4,807 meters • France

Climbing the Alpine way in western Europe is different from the experience in Nepal. The challenge may appear to be lesser, in that the altitude is much lower, there is no Death Zone. But you are also more independent, and have less support. There are no porters or sherpas. There are no fixed ropes - you have to bring your own ropes and find secure attachments for them. 

I reached Mont Blanc in cold weather and realized that I did not have enough layers. The experience was marred by shivering cold and slight frostnip in the tips of my fingers. But it was another famous peak where I successfully reached the summit.