around the world

We thought it was a 2B. It would have been enough for our experience. But we missed the easiest path, so we took the classical one: a 4B, mixed ice and rock climbing, 70-80 degree slopes and belaying at downclimb. Russian style.

The alarm went off at 3:30. Much too early we thought, we could wait and leave at 5. And so we did. Fortunately, it was again one of those days. Clear skies in paradise.

Getting ready, at 4:40, in front of the tent. Despite the altitude, it wasn’t so cold.

Lyalver. The smallest in the right of the picture.

Sun was already up before coming close to the mountain. We thought it was easier… much easier…

What followed, took us 18 hours to complete. This time, there were real mountains. Climbing, not hiking.

And the beautiful part of it: falling rocks

Weeeee!

Relaxation.

Elbrus, the highest in the back.

Close to the stone ridge. Very hard and steep climbing.

Lucian, breathing and relaxing his legs.

Before the ridge, we took a break. A well deserved one, with frozen Snickers and water

This was the known part. Another half of the day for the unknown…