Base Camp of the Engadine

For him, the Bernina Range is simply home. And then there is of course his love for his girlfriend, who drew him to Pontresina. Either way, he has not once regretted it – quite the contrary. "Bringing a guest to the summit is just cool. It is a lasting experience." Gian Luck sums up his enthusiasm for the climbing profession; he never takes risks, "Because a good mountain guide is an old mountain guide." For about 200 days of each year, he takes guests to the Piz Bernina and Piz Palü – the two most famous peaks in the Engadine. Many arrive as guests and leave as friends. A mountain adventure binds people together. 

If you want to get a taste, you can rent everything on site, from hiking boots to full climbing equipment. And the hotels also play a crucial part, offering special lunch packages for tours. Luck suggests a one-day ice training course for sporty beginners: students familiarise themselves with climbing gear such as crampons, ropes, and the necessary techniques. In the evening, it's off to the Diavolezza so that you are ready to climb the Piz Palü the next morning. For people with tour experience, the Biancograt holds great appeal. And for professionals, Gian Luck recommends the more demanding alternatives "Bumiller" and "Ostpfeiler". Both are technically difficult and steeper than the normal route.