The Italian Ridge from the Carrel Hut
The morning of our planned ascent was disappointing to say the least - thick clag accompanied by thunder and lightning. The guided parties in the hut had decided to descend and the early starters were seen to be retreating. So it was a "no brainer", to use an expression not available in 1979. Despite our efforts of the previous day we decided there was no option but to make our way back to Zermatt.
Two hours later, having committed ourselves to the descent, the sky cleared and it turned into a perfect day for climbing the Matterhorn.
The Italian Ridge from the Carrel Hut
The morning of our planned ascent was disappointing to say the least - thick clag accompanied by thunder and lightning. The guided parties in the hut had decided to descend and the early starters were seen to be retreating. So it was a "no brainer", to use an expression not available in 1979. Despite our efforts of the previous day we decided there was no option but to make our way back to Zermatt.
Two hours later, having committed ourselves to the descent, the sky cleared and it turned into a perfect day for climbing the Matterhorn.