Hours of Exercise in the Alps

A vivid chronicle of a scientist‑climber’s life in the High Alps, this volume weaves together personal adventure, keen observation and a love of rugged scenery. The author recounts his own climbs, not merely as feats of daring but as gateways to a thousand other “exercises”—from measuring glacial motion to pondering the physics of ice—offering listeners a rich blend of narrative and natural philosophy.

Interlaced with these memoirs are compelling historical sketches, including the daring first assault on the Matterhorn and a tragic expedition that claimed a beloved guide. Practical notes on glacier behavior, safety on the peaks, and occasional side trips to distant shores provide a broader context, while striking illustrations bring the alpine grandeur to life. Listeners will find a thoughtful meditation on why mountains captivate us, paired with the exhilaration of real‑world mountain life.