Velino Central Face

This is the South-facing side. In winter, a route to the right of main rock wall and up the centre snow field, leads to a high, narrow gulley, needing roping, then out onto a ridgeline. Most usual route, which I take, goes direct up the left of the central face on a huge, huge snowfield to the semi ridge, which is steep. Then through a great S-gulley, also steep. Leading to a nice ramp with a "face" peering at you. Next, a corner move and when iced, a perilous traverse under the rockband, and another again exposed ramp - short but v.steep. The final ridgeline is spectacular, and dicey when iced. The fall line from the ridge is like looking down the Eiger North. Take crampons, even though I don't. You could easily slide to the bottom, or take a drop. From the summit, there is a safe escape down and over to Monte Sévice, though it's very bitter on this side and possible to get lost in cloud. At times I had to return this way, as I couldn't reverse the semi-technical line without crampons. At one time when iced and compacted, I did, and it was the greatest challenge of my life. After 14 ascents, I know it pretty well. But then, you can never know when the mood of a mountain will change. I experienced all its many moods. And what great experiences I've had. Enjoy the spirituous Griffin Eagles. Ray