The ascent of 'Große Platte' (Grade 7) in the rugged Totes Gebirge was an unforgettable alpine experience. True to its name, the route presented us with a vast, steep slab, demanding precise footwork and a cool head. Each meter climbed on the smooth, seemingly featureless rock felt like a triumph, pushing our balance and technique to their limits. The exposure grew with every pitch, revealing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Reaching the summit after overcoming the route's challenging cruxes was a moment of immense satisfaction. The descent involved several long abseils, carefully retracing our path down the imposing wall, before the walk back to the valley.