The Miroir d'Argentine is a 400-metre limestone slab in Switzerland near Solalex, adjacent to the peaks of Diablerets and Gran Muveran.
Direct Route (5 pitches, grade 5a)
A straight-line ascent featuring crack climbing, chimneying, lay backing, overhangs and slabs. The lower pitches required a lot of squirming and thrusting through wide cracks, while the upper section offered 5 incredible pitches on bulges and finger cracks with immaculate rock. The climb was completed before dark.
Voie Normal Route
Climbing with partner Matt, I initially veered off-route into more difficult terrain. After correcting course and managing rope tangles, we encountered thunderstorms. Recognising the danger of being caught on a wet limestone face 300m up in a storm, we switched to the Direct route for the summit push. We reached safety just before heavy rain began.
Remix (5c+)
Despite hangovers from the previous night's celebrations, Matt and I completed this sustained 5b/c route featuring a big bulge in the middle. Climbing of the highest quality with crack lines, bulges, overhangs and a crux featuring a steep roof pull. The final pitches traversed the best quality slabs with minimal holds, where bolts were sportingly spaced over 5m apart.