From Gripped Magazine · Dave Barnes · · 1m 10s
Verdon Gorge Adds New Seven-Pitch Route
Italian climber Iris Bielli completes first free ascent of Fragili Equilibri, a seven-pitch 5.14a route in France’s Verdon Gorge.
In brief
Italian climber Iris Bielli completes first free ascent of Fragili Equilibri, a seven-pitch 5.14a route in France’s Verdon Gorge. Iris Bielli freed the first ascent of Fragili Equilibri, a seven-pitch 5.14a route on France’s Verdon Gorge wall, with a technical crux pitch. Originally reported by Gripped Magazine.
New Route Completion
Italian climber Iris Bielli completed the first free ascent of Fragili Equilibri, a seven-pitch route on France’s Verdon Gorge wall.
Route Details
Fragili Equilibri features a 15-metre crux of barely defined crack and sloping tufa, with technical passages through water pockets and tiny crimps.
Team Creation
Luca Ducoli and Leo Gheza established Fragili Equilibri over six days in November 2025, with Daniele LoRusso assisting during the first two days.
Crux Pitch Challenge
The crux pitch requires precision and good body positioning to link sequences of moves across contrasting features.
“It requires precision and good body positioning to link the sequences of moves”
Climber's Perspective
Iris Bielli described the route as alternating between overhanging tufa sections and technical passages featuring water pockets and tiny crimps.
“The route is truly spectacular. It alternates between overhanging sections on tufa and more technical passages featuring water pockets, small holes, and tiny crimps”
Route Significance
Fragili Equilibri adds a new seven-pitch challenge to Verdon Gorge’s limestone climbing area with careful consideration of existing routes.
In short
Iris Bielli freed the first ascent of Fragili Equilibri, a seven-pitch 5.14a route on France’s Verdon Gorge wall, with a technical crux pitch.
