Overview
Grade: D
Total time: 2 hrs
Climbing time: 1 hour
Approach time: 20 mins
Exit time: 10 mins
Show topo 
Length: 800m
Total elevation: 170m
Altitude: 1,181m
Climbing "La Descente aux Enfers et la Montée au Purgatoire (6)" is an experience that truly lives up to its name. This D grade route, while not technically demanding in terms of pure difficulty, presents a mental and physical challenge. The "Descente aux Enfers" (Descent into Hell) portion often involves traversing potentially loose or crumbly rock, demanding careful foot placement and trust in your handholds. The feeling of exposure can be significant, amplifying the psychological aspect. Then comes the "Montée au Purgatoire" (Ascent to Purgatory), which typically requires sustained effort and endurance. While not overly steep, this section can be long and unrelenting, demanding consistent focus and efficient movement. Successfully completing this route is less about brute strength and more about careful planning, mental fortitude, and a healthy dose of self-belief. It's a climb that rewards patience and deliberate execution, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment that belies its relatively moderate grade.
