At 100 years old: Wiesbaden mountaineer conquers the peaks of the Alps!

At 100 years old: Wiesbaden mountaineer conquers the peaks of the Alps!

Could you simply ignore age when you're as lively and active as Marianne Berndsen? The 100-year-old mountaineer from Wiesbaden has climbed many a peak in her long life. She can put over 150 three-thousanders and three four-thousanders on her list. In doing so, she impressively proves that mountaineering is not just a sporting activity, but a philosophy of life Wiesbaden is alive reported.

Marianne, who has been a member of the German Alpine Club since 1948, has traveled the Alps for over five decades. It is interesting that she once climbed the Großglockner without water and resorted to snow along the way to quench her thirst. Her skills as a mountaineer are beyond question. She mastered many routes with ropes and via ferrata sets, even before via ferratas became popular. She sees mountaineering as a kind of art of living, even if she does not ignore the tragedy surrounding Laura Dahlmeier and is aware of the risks of mountaineering.

Experiences and equipment

Like mountaineering itself, having the right equipment requires a certain level of preparation. Loud Alpine Club Sure-footedness, a head for heights and good orientation skills are essential. Because the path to the summit can be rocky and challenging. Obstacles such as narrow paths, pathless terrain or climbing areas of up to II degree are not uncommon in mountaineering.

But what is the basic equipment for a mountaineer? A sturdy, ankle-high mountain boot, weather-appropriate clothing and an alpine backpack are worth their weight in gold. Anyone traveling on ice and snow needs crampons, while mountain ropes provide additional safety. In an emergency, things like a first aid kit and a headlamp should not be missing. Marianne Berndsen knows from her own experience how important careful preparation is, as her only serious accident was a fall on a hiking trail that cost her a leg.

Mountaineering as part of life

Skiing in the picturesque Alta Badia in South Tyrol is one of her other passions. Not to forget the art and culture that she collects in the form of exhibition catalogs. As a native of Sonnenberg, she can also be found regularly at the Rheingau Wine Festival, where she has been going for almost 50 years. Her participation in the opening night this year shows that age is still not a limit for her, but just a number.

Marianne Berndsen and her late husband, who was once chairman of the German Alpine Club, gained a lot of experience in the mountains together and raised a son. Mount Everest did not appeal to her, as she appreciated the other mountains better, including Breitorn. She often went on hut tours alone and met like-minded people there. She not only collected peaks, but also indelible memories and thousands of slides, which she kept in photo albums.

Whether in the valley or high up, Marion Berndsen remains an inspiration for all mountaineers and nature enthusiasts. Especially considering the challenges that mountaineering can bring. Surefootedness and proper equipment are absolutely necessary in order to feel comfortable and safe in the mountains Kletterinsel.de confirmed.