Path through the fish
From the depths of winter in the Dolomites to the warmth of Mediterranean hospitality
Path through the fish
From the depths of winter in the Dolomites to the warmth of Mediterranean hospitality
Crossing the Three Peaks in the snow, shade and cold had taken a lot of energy out of Simon Wahli and me. We recovered over several days and soon realized that we didn't feel the need to go home yet. felt the need to go home yet. After so much snow and ice, we were in the mood for a pure rock tour. And so we decided to climb the "Path through the fish" (7b+) on the Marmolada. climb. Of course, winter conditions prevailed here too, but luckily I had a helpful friend who would create the best conditions for us: Andrea Milani.
I had met the Italian mountain guide by chance. We had a mutual friend who unfortunately passed away. So I contacted him and asked him what the conditions on the wall were like. were on the wall. He reconnoitred the wall as part of a ski tour he had organized for clients and sent us photos. He also came with us to the hut and helped us carry the equipment up. We climbed the first 6 pitches the day before to deposit our rucksack. Again, we had to carry ice axes and heavy shoes for the exit.
Simon and I took it in turns to lead climb and we climbed the easier lengths simultaneously. We were doing very well mentally and we were also able to climb the key pitch in onsight mode. climbing mode. And because it was going so well, I loosened up a bit and as we were continuing in 7a, I didn't study the topo so closely. I had underestimated the labyrinth of routes in this big wall somewhat underestimated. Despite making good progress, you should always remain careful. And so I climbed 4m up the 16th pitch. I was able to complete the onsight ascent with courage, determination and a small weak point in the rock.
After 9 hours we reached the summit, where we met Andrea Milani after a short abseil. He had brought our ski equipment, tea and chocolate. Simon and I were happy and impressed impressed by Andrea's warmth and support. We drove together to Malga Ciapela and treated ourselves to a pizza.
Yes, and after this wonderful and successful experience, Simon and I decided that we had had enough and it was time to go home. It was March 4th and we had taken 3 more weeks off. off work. But if you just keep going, tours lose a bit of their value. Suddenly they're just a number and you're restlessly running from one project to the next. It's important to be grateful that everything went well and to gather new strength and ideas for new ventures.
