I have always loved the mountains and enjoy sharing my passion for the outdoors with others through activities such as hiking, ski touring, and climbing. During my childhood summers in Cortina, I was lucky enough to have an excellent local priest named Don Valentino introduce me and other children to the area’s leading “via Ferrata” and mountain walks. Starting as a young kid, I eventually became one of the older kids responsible for leading the younger ones. I am particularly fond of long walks and wild camping, having completed most of Dolomite’s high routes and even ventured to remote areas like the “Monti del Sole” for solo winter camping.
When I was 13, I went on my first climbing expedition in the Alps. However, my parents were unaware of my newfound hobby until I had to camp at the base of a wall with two older guys. I began sport climbing in Belluno and was fortunate to climb with many renowned and skilled climbers. I even had the opportunity to climb with almost all the legendary climbers of the 80s and 90s. My parents were concerned about my safety, so they introduced me to a well-known local alpinist named Soro Dorotei. Soro didn’t take long to realize I was already an experienced climber. As his young assistant, I assisted him in his mountaineering courses by bringing up ropes and belaying people.
When I was younger, I wasn’t interested in following rules and structures. Instead, I spent time with skilled climbers in the Dolomite region, led by the charismatic Luigi Dal Pozzo. My schoolmates often teased me for carrying climbing equipment instead of textbooks in my backpack. Later, I moved to Milan to attend university, but my passion for climbing and the outdoors remained strong.
I was fortunate to work as a mountain hut factotum for two summers. For two years, I managed the Torrani hut with Bruno Soraru. It was a remote location where I worked either with Bruno or alone. My primary responsibilities included cooking and taking care of the guests. However, I also frequently provided first aid assistance and aided climbers recovering from climbs on the challenging North West wall. It was an experience that was both challenging and rewarding, and it will always hold a special place in my heart.
During my university time, I was part of a group of young climbers, which I referred to as “the tribe”. We enjoyed wild camping trips in the Alps, discovering new routes, and spending time outdoors. My most memorable climbing experiences include conquering challenging routes in the Dolomites and Mont Blanc area and embarking on the “Grande Cresta” expedition with Alessandro Gogna, the first person to climb the Eiger alone in winter. Additionally, I had the opportunity to manage Ferrino’s high lab camp at the Quintino Sella in Monte Rosa for four weeks, where I tested tents and sleeping bags. I was fortunate enough to be situated at 3600m, allowing me to climb to the top of Castore/Polluce or Lyskams almost daily. This was a period of my life that I truly cherished.
Upon finishing my mandatory military service, I noticed that many of my climbing buddies were more into sports climbing rather than exploring nature. On the other hand, I was drawn to the benefits and stability of a traditional job. As a result, I shifted my focus towards the digital realm, which has become my new playground for adventure.
Over time, my work and family commitments led me to transition from intense mountaineering and climbing to more manageable outdoor activities. When I relocated to the UK for work, I discovered a passion for mountain biking while indulging in ski-touring in the Alps. While living in Winchester, I introduced many people to the wonders of the Alps, and some of them still remember how I inspired them to embrace outdoor pursuits such as hiking, mountain biking, ski-touring, climbing, and fell running. After leaving the corporate world in 2016, I spent much time reflecting on my identity.
Thanks to my friend Kurt, I had the opportunity to attend an International Telemark festival in Livigno. During the festival, I met many people who shared similar interests and beliefs, including Giuliano, who sparked a chain of events still unfolding. Through this experience, I gained clarity about my identity and aspirations, leading me to become a mountain bike guide for British Cycling and later a qualified Mountain Leader.
In 2020, I noticed that many more people were looking for a wider range of outdoor activities, so I began working towards multiple qualifications including the UK Mountain Leadership Award, which I achieved in July 2023.
I am currently preparing for the International Mountain Leadership Award and the Rock Climbing Instructor Award.
With the support from my qualifications and friends met during this journey, I am eager to offer a unique and enjoyable experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Let’s get outdoor out of our comfort zone together. Through my work as an outdoor professional, I aim to introduce more individuals to the beauty of the great outdoors.
