Teaming up with a new climbing partner Fabio Mastroianni we headed across the panoramic to traverse the Entreves ridge on the Italian side of the Massive. I met Fabio driving him to and from the airport and then having bumped into him on the Tacul last week we thought it was best to go and do a nice easy route together before taking on anything serious. This route was perfect for Fabio as he was returning back to his homeland with some Italian drinks to finish!

The traverse goes from right to left along the top of the ridge.

The route starts a mere 40-minute walk from the cable car station, this did mean it was very busy, sort of an Italian Cosmiques! The whole traverse is done in big boots but without crampons, as it is 100% rock. The route is graded PD and has a couple of tricky rock moves in the middle just below the first summit. With a couple of down climbs thrown in it is a good beginner alpine rock traverse and even though it was very crowded we both had a great day finished off with a beer and a grappa!

Starting up the ridge.

Just before the first down climb, Probably the most difficult section of the route.

The first and hardest down climb.

The ridge leading to the summit, you can see the crowds of people ahead!

Stopping for some lunch after the summit, only a 20 min traverse from here to finish.

Just relaxing in the sun!

The view from the Torino enjoying a beer and Grappa!

Going back across the Vallee Blanche towards the Midi at the end of a nice day in Italy!