Born in 1967 in Ortisei, Dieter Demetz discovered his passion for the vertical world at the young age of 13. His early alpine years were shaped by rope teams with his brother Gregor and his long-time partner Adam Holzknecht. By age 16, he was already leaving his mark on the rock with the first ascent of the "Trinele", followed by numerous Dolomite classics in the upper grades of difficulty. During this same period, in 1985, Dieter joined the Val Gardena Mountain Rescue team.
Before turning his passion into a profession, Dieter worked for 25 years as a "Fassmaler" (ornamental painter) in the traditional Val Gardena arts and crafts sector. In 2008, he transferred this craftsman’s patience and precision to his work as a full-time mountain guide. His expertise also led him into education: since 2012, he has served as an instructor for the Mountain Rescue of South Tyrol (CNSAS), where he significantly shaped training standards as Head of Training from 2014 to 2022.
When Dieter is not on the mountain, he finds balance in music. As an enthusiastic musician, he values rhythm and harmony—qualities that also guide him when leading his guests through the mountains of Val Gardena.
Dieters's favorite tours:
Five Fingers Normal Route, Kasnapoff - 2nd Sella Tower, Odle group
Highlights:
Dieter's Motto:
People who love the mountains reflect the sunlight. The others, who remained in the valley, do not understand their language.
by Stefan Schröder
