Alpinism: Aiguille du Belv̩d̬re РBaisers Orageux (Aiguilles Rouges)

Last year Anna and I climbed Mariage de la terre et du vent at Aiguille du Belvédère and we enjoyed it. This year we are back there to try another Michel Piola’s route; Baisers Orageux.

Anna at the top of 3rd pitch Baisers Orageux (© P. Gatta)

The route is graded ED-/6c+/300m but despite the grades, we found Baisers Orageux harder than Mariage and not as nice. The four 6c+ pitches on slabby and slippery rock are not very pleasant to climb. Some pitches are committed with the bolts are often above the crux.

Aiguille du Belvédère in the background (© A. Gatta)

Approach: start from the top of the Index chair lift and then walk to Lac Blanc and straight to the face (1h45).

1st pitch, Baisers Orageux (© P. Gatta)

Coordinates of the start: 45°59,282N, 6°52,545E.
The few first meters of the route are common with Mariage de la terre et du vent, but stop at the first anchor.

1st pitch, Baisers Orageux (© P. Gatta)

5th pitch, Baisers Orageux (© P. Gatta)

6th pitch, Baisers Orageux (© P. Gatta)

Baisers Orageux (© P. Gatta)