Giuliano Stenghel’s New Book Explores Mountaineering Routes Near Lake Garda

And seven. The other evening, in the Sighele Middle School Auditorium crowded with friends, mountaineers, and enthusiasts, Giuliano Stenghel presented his new book, the seventh since the pioneer one, “Lasciami Volare.” It is titled “Il grido del gabbiano” and published by La Grafica di Mori. This time, the mountaineer’s emotions—the sensation of emptiness, of the rock under the hands, of the intelligent and technical pursuit of overcoming a difficulty—whether big or small, it largely comes down to mental strength more than muscle—these feelings are intertwined in the description, which is indeed technical, of the routes accessible on the amphitheater of mountains overlooking Lake Garda. There are hundreds, from simple excursions to climbs that challenge limits: all united by the common denominator of the vast blue expanse of Garda in the background, its greens and blues, the wind, the sails, the villages, sunrises and sunsets, abandoned huts, and silence. To give an example, from Campione, the Witches’ Leap can be crossed either by ascending the gorge of the San Michele stream, rated as a hiking route, or via the Serenella route, VI+ and A3, opened by Stenghel with Luca Campagna and Mariano Rizzi in 1992.

The routes on the Ledense Alps and Mount Baldo

The routes on the Ledense Alps, on Rocchetta, and in Campione are all included; on Mount Baldo, there are some, but little, possibly overlooked. The book is a joint effort; with Stenghel, Luciano Camerini, a deep connoisseur of the Adamello group and author of the volume on the Brescia Prealps and Ledense in the prestigious “Monti d’Italia” series by Cai. However, dozens of climbers have contributed with reports, sketches, observations on the difficulties, and suggestions.

A priceless guide and how to contribute

Therefore, a valuable guide: as Giuliano Stenghel said during the presentation, it could have been sold. Instead, true to the tradition of the Serenella Association, this book is also given away for free upon request. Inside, folded before the last page of the cover, is a bank account slip made out to the Serenella Association. Those who wish can contribute, in any amount and in their own way, to support the activities of the organization that helps children around the world.