Tour du Mont Blanc trips are trekking soon! We thought we’d start introducing our TMB guides early! Today, we’re starting with Manou!
What’s your name?
My name is Emmanuel Roux
Do you have any nicknames?
Manou
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I’ve done the TMB more than 100 times!
What are your hobbies?
Skiing, climbing, reading books and going camping with my wife.
How long have you been a guide?
I have been a guide since I was 26 years old
Why did you decide to become a guide?
I originally intended to become a mountain guide, but I was injured in an avalanche, so I switched to a more gentle and safe type of mountain.
What’s your favourite thing about guiding treks?
One of my favourite aspects of leading treks is jumping into or swimming in the mountain's small streams of icy water.
What’s the craziest thing that’s happened on a trek?
In Norway's small island of Lofoten, I once had to use ropes to save a sheep.
We should ask him to tell us this story! – AA Team
What do you think is a quality that every good guide needs?
One ought to keep their group close, always lend a hand to those in need, and avoid pressing anyone too hard.
Tell us something fun about your treks!
When we drink too much GRAPA in Italy after the traditional GROLA, I have the best times ever, haha!
Anything else you want us to know about you?
I first travelled to the United States with my French crepe maker when I was around 18 years old to learn English. Since we all spoke English at the time, I started to appreciate the ability to communicate with people from around the globe.
Lastly, what tip can you give our trekkers heading your way?
Long before you even get to Chamonix, you start getting ready for the Tour du Mont Blanc. Start considering taking more walks and increasing your daily step count. Although the Tour du Mont Blanc is not regarded as a challenging trek, in my experience, the more fit the visitors are, the more they enjoy it.