First ascent of Grand Combin

Background. Grand Combin is a glaciated massif in the western Pennine Alps of Valais, with Combin de Grafeneire standing as its highest peak at 4,309 meters. Despite its height, the mountain remained one of the least known Alpine summits for decades. Prior expeditions in 1857 reached only the eastern Aiguille du Croissant, leaving the main summit unclimbed until 1859.

Prior Attempts. Before the 1859 success, four expeditions failed to reach the main summit, stopping at the minor eastern peak known as Aiguille du Croissant. The first such attempt occurred on July 20, 1857, by guides Maurice Fellay and Jouvence Bruchez. These earlier efforts did not achieve the complete ascent of the massif.

The Ascent. The definitive first complete ascent took place on July 30, 1859. Charles Sainte-Claire Deville led the party, accompanied by guides Daniel, Emmanuel, and Gaspard Balleys, as well as Basile Dorsaz. This expedition successfully reached the highest point of the Grand Combin, overcoming the limitations of previous attempts that had only accessed lower eastern summits.