An introduction to Multi-Pitch Climbing on the Martinswand
Updated on: 02. Aug 2024
The ‘Climbing with Respect’ event day at the Martinswand near Zirl focused on Multi-Pitch Climbing techniques and nature conservation in the Karwendel Mountains.
In June 2024, the “Climbing with Respect” event took place at several locations in Tirol. At the Martinswand – the popular climbing area in the Inn Valley near Zirl – the focus was on Multi-Pitch Climbing techniques and nature conservation in the Karwendel Mountains. As well as the famous Kaiser-Max Via Ferrata/Iron Way, you’ll find several sport climbing areas here with varying Levels of Difficulty, as well as easy, well-secured multi-pitch routes and alpine climbs in the upper section of the wall. Thanks to its historical significance, proximity to Innsbruck and ease of access, the Martinswand is one of the most visited climbing areas in Tirol.
At 9.30 sharp, we sorted our climbing gear into teams and headed to the ‘Dschungelbuch’ sport climbing area. Mountain Guide Robert (organised by theSAAC) had the latest updates on Multi-Pitch Climbing in his bag: from equipment knowledge to abseiling techniques and rope handling, right through to various belay techniques, he brought us up to speed over the course of the morning. Afterwards, it was time for a snack from Bio vom Berg – fresh yoghurt, mountain cheese, apples, Schüttelbrot and spritzer made with apple juice recharged our batteries for the afternoon.
In the afternoon, we focused on the animal inhabitants of the nature park. Iris, a digital ranger at the Karwendel Mountains Nature Park, invited us to observe the inhabitants of the skies. Through a pair of giant binoculars, we spotted Alpine swifts, jackdaws and even two eagles. And then a special sighting drew our attention away from the skies and onto the wall: a baby chamois!
Afterwards, we wanted to do our bit to give something back and keep the Martinswand clean. Armed with bin bags and litter pickers, we walked along the base of the cliff – and came across all sorts of rubbish: cigarette ends, toilet paper, bits of plastic. It’s almost shameful, because not only does all this take an age to break down, but it also pollutes water and can poison animals. The Code of Conduct for environmentally conscious climbing is set out in the ‘Climbing with Respect’ guidelines. Thanks to the SAAC for organising Mountain Guide Robert, who impressed us with his expertise, good humour and astonishing command of foreign languages. By the end, one thing was clear: we are merely guests in nature – and ‘leave nothing but memories’ should be our mantra.
Text & photos: Hanna Hörmann
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