Climbing the Route Rotpunkt at Cheselenfluh in 28° Heat

Today we decided to climb at Cheselenfluh despite the 28°C temperature. Our goal was simple: spend a climbing day with friends, exchanging impressions about different climbing techniques, and just enjoying the rock.

First Impressions: Not cooler Than the Valley

When we arrived, the sun was hitting us harder than we wished – a full 28 degrees. But luckily, a fresh breeze accompanied us throughout the day. That wind made all the difference and helped us actually finish the climb. Without it, we might have bailed after pitch 3.

We adjusted our final gear, put on our shorts, and started the 45-minute approach to the base of the route.

The Route: Rotpunt (7 Pitches, up to 6c)

PItch 1: 6b+

Introduction pitch. Mostly good friction rock, well-bolted for the grade.

Pitch 2: 5c

Classic local rock. Horizontal erosion holds, bolts a bit further apart due to low difficulty.

Pitch 3: 6b+

Magnificent pitch for rock quality. Less polished holds, movement that requires good reading skills. Slightly psycho finish. Warning: walk about 10 meters left before finding the first bolt, and watch for loose rock.

Pitch 4: 5a

Pretty typical for the area: unstable rock. Move very carefully and stay alert for holds that might break.

Pitch 5: 6c

Very short and intense pitch. Unlike previous pitches, the rock here is blunt with no obvious holds. Well-bolted.

Pitch 6: 6a

Very long and pleasant pitch. Ends in a kind of dihedral.

Pitch 7: 6b

Athletic pitch that crosses 2 roofs with good holds. Perfect way to end a climbing day with friends.

The Heat Factor: Real Talk

Climbing in 28 degrees meant:

Painful feet – shoes felt two sizes smaller by pitch 3
Sweaty hands – more chalk than usual
The sun hit us more than we wished – barely any shade on most pitches
But the fresh breeze saved us – without it, we would have been cooked

Water tip: Double your usual intake. Bring at least 2-3 liters per person.

Conclusion: Is It Worth It?

Although the rock at Cheselenfluh leaves a lot to be desired (it's very brittle, which adds constant tension, especially on the middle pitches), it's undoubtedly the great work of a legend like Walter Britschgi that keeps us coming back to this place again and again.

And let's not forget the atmosphere and the view of this noble valley – even through sweat-stung eyes, with a welcome breeze keeping us alive.

Useful Info

Access: The sector is easy to reach by car and public transport, Although check the Postauto website for clarification about the itinerary and season, the buses are running from Lucerne. It is quite difficult to understand the timetable PDF.
Experience needed: Although there are lower-grade routes, solid multi-pitch experience is recommended
Best season: Avoid very hot days – but if you go when it's hot, pray for wind
Water recommendation: Minimum 2-3 liters per person

Would you be interested in climbing these routes?

Check out our Tours. And you – have you climbed at Cheselenfluh in stupid heat? Did you get lucky with a breeze too? Leave your story in the comments!