Philipp Micheli

Between Rock and Trust

In Tramin, many things are cultivated: vineyards, apple orchards – and a certain calmness capable of softening the noise of everyday life. And then there is Philipp Micheli, who collects something that cannot be bottled here: mountain experiences.

Philipp is a certified mountain and ski guide. One of those people who radiate calm while others are still wondering whether turning back might actually be the better idea.

And yet, his story begins quite simply. Philipp grew up in the wine village of Tramin. Today he is 33 years old and, as he says himself, “I’ve been in the mountains for as long as I can remember.” After training courses, travels, and countless days spent between rock and snow, he always returned here. Today, Tramin is once again the center of his life. Perhaps precisely because both worlds are possible here: the quietness of the village – and the closeness of the mountains.

Philipp sees himself as a versatile mountain guide. He accompanies people climbing, ski touring, and mountaineering – from classic Dolomite routes to multi-day ski touring adventures.

What drives him is simple – and perhaps that is exactly what makes him so authentic: sharing beautiful moments in the mountains and meeting interesting people. But above all, one thing matters most to him: the mountain experience – and returning home safely.

For Philipp, safety means above all attentiveness. He explains the equipment, observes every movement of his guests, and steps in before uncertainty turns into fear. Small technical tips, calm guidance, and trust in one’s own abilities all become part of the experience. “When I lead the way, I demonstrate the movements clearly and prepare the group for the more technical sections of the route.” It is never about pushing someone beyond their limits. Rather, it is about guiding people step by step toward something they may not have believed possible at first.

Letting Yourself Embrace the Height

For many people, it is especially the exposure that feels challenging. The sensation of suddenly standing high above the valley, with rock beneath your hands and empty space below your feet. Philipp says:

“You mustn’t let the exposure overwhelm you – you have to focus on the movement.”

Step by step.

Hold by hold.

And sometimes, when you stop for a moment in a safe place, something unexpected happens:

Fear becomes smaller.

And wonder becomes greater.

“And at that point, you can even begin to enjoy the exposure.”

Making Experiences Possible

Perhaps that is exactly why Philipp chose this profession. Not because of summit photos. But because of people. “It’s beautiful to give people experiences they may never have had before.” Often, these are precisely the moments people remember for a very long time.

For Philipp, via ferratas in particular offer a special way into the mountains: athletic, direct, and intense – somewhere between hiking and climbing. Without complicated technique, but with enough challenge to allow people to go beyond themselves.

Every Wednesday Different

In collaboration with the Tramin Tourist Association, Philipp leads guided via ferrata tours every Wednesday until the end of June and again from September onward.

He plans each route in advance – adapting it to the season, the conditions, and the character of the tour. Because no mountain day is ever the same. And neither is any group.

Sometimes the path leads through narrow gorges, other times along exposed walls with wide views over the valley. But one thing always remains at the center: making sure everyone feels comfortable – and returns with a good feeling inside.

Between Motivation and Honesty

In the mountains, the same phrases are often heard: “We’re almost there.” Philipp laughs when he says it. Not because it is always true. But because motivation is sometimes just as important as physical endurance.
One thing, however, is very important to him: people should never compare themselves to mountain guides. “You shouldn’t forget that some people spend 200 days a year in the mountains.”
It’s not about being exceptionally strong. It’s about remaining open. To movement, to height, and to new experiences.

And because via ferratas may feel like freedom, but also require attention and structure, the rules are clear and simple: a maximum of six participants, gloves, sturdy boots, weatherproof clothing, water – and via ferrata equipment no older than ten years. At first, this may perhaps seem strict. But it creates exactly what truly matters in the mountains: safety, trust, and peace of mind.

Those who usually discover Tramin through wine and pleasure experience it differently with Philipp: suddenly, the valley is no longer around us, but beneath us. And often, it is precisely at that moment that people fall silent – not out of fear, but out of wonder.

What Remains

Those who spend time in the mountains with Philipp Micheli usually take home far more than just a summit photo.
Perhaps a small personal achievement. Perhaps greater trust in themselves.

Or simply that moment when you stop, look down – and suddenly realize that fear and freedom are sometimes much closer to one another than we think.

And perhaps that is exactly what the mountains are truly about. Not always having to climb higher.

But getting a little closer to yourself.

(Interview  Erica Furini)
May 2026