#MOUNTINSPIREPEOPLE
LINES. SHAPES. AESTHETICS. In their respective professions as a technical draftsperson and an architect, both climbers deal with complex structures and innovative forms. The urge to create by developing new climbing routes is far more than just a logical consequence. It is an inner drive, an authentic expression of their personality. A conversation about their evolution, the creative process on the rock, and their deep connection to nature.
Background: Marinus Höflinger and Florian Maier both grew up in Reit im Winkl. After extended travels, university studies, and various stints abroad, they returned home to the Chiemgau. By bolting new routes and reviving crags long thought forgotten, they have done far more than just leave a mark. Instead, they have made a bold exclamation point in the border region between Bavaria, Tyrol, and Salzburg.
There are people who don't see landscapes as a random collection of objects. Instead, they think in structures, lines, and possibilities. This perspective allows them to interact playfully with nature—a vision nurtured since childhood. Family mountain tours, outings with the Alpine Club, and their own early adventures forged a bond with the mountains that remains unbroken to this day.
Their close friendship truly took shape only in recent years, after Marinus returned to Reit im Winkl as an architect. Although they have known each other since early childhood, each discovered the mountains independently. There was plenty of common ground, but the timing hadn’t been right yet. Marinus co-founded the Freeski-Crew with friends, a collective still well-known across Innsbruck, the Inntal valley, and the Chiemgau today. Later, he was drawn to more remote regions and higher peaks like Peak Lenin. There, alongside many unforgettable moments, he also experienced the harsh reality of high-altitude mountaineering: that fortune and tragedy are often separated by mere coincidence.
"I want to create something. Others should benefit from what I do. When freeriding, we drew fleeting lines in the snow. Videos were made—digital copies of our experiences—but nothing lasting. It’s entirely different when establishing new climbing routes: we draw lines, compose sequences of holds, and craft something permanent that our friends can enjoy. On some first ascents, we discover ancient pitons—silent witnesses to the climbing generations before us. That sense of continuity inspires us. It also shows that a deep respect for nature and sport climbing can exist in pure harmony when we find the right lines."
Florian Maier walked a similar path. As a freestyle skier, he expanded his repertoire of movement with every new trick and spin. His natural flow likely has its roots right here. During an extended stay in Canada, his open-minded nature connected him with kindred spirits who shared his passion. Through these shared journeys, he accessed hidden corners he might otherwise never have seen. Community is forged through shared experiences in the wild. Climbing, biking, trail running, wakeboarding, skiing—Florian simply loves being outdoors, though rock climbing is where his greatest ambition lies.
Over many years of pushing each other, Florian and Marinus evolved into true climbing aces, claiming ascents up to grade X. Each new route represents an opportunity to push past personal limits. Through countless climbing sessions, they also developed an instinctive feel for what makes a truly great line:
Is the rock quality solid? What is the approach like? Nature conservation? Where should climbers steer clear? Where are the natural clipping stances? Should the route follow a pure crack, or is it better to place only one foot inside? Are there natural rests? Where is the crux, and does the grade flow consistently throughout?…
Over time, the desire took root to establish their own routes, to draw their own lines in the rock, and to shape Reit im Winkl into a true climbing haven. Driven by creative energy, they began exploring their home turf with even sharper eyes.
Reit im Winkl is home to a wealth of prime crags, some of which were first climbed decades ago. Sleeping beauties in the rock, now being breathed back to life. The seasoned pioneers of yesteryear wholeheartedly support the duo's drive. Pitching in, lending a hand, working together. In countless hours, over a hundred new climbing routes ranging from grade IV to X have been born around Reit im Winkl. Marinus and Florian find their greatest reward when fellow climbers send these lines, discovering new ways to connect with nature. The boundary between art and craft blurs when bolting new routes, with so many subtle variables to balance. Today, Marinus and Florian are indisputably Masters of the Lines whose expertise is sought after on new developments. They shape the canvas they are given, leaving lasting lines in the rock. True fulfillment in their home region of Reit im Winkl—confidently standing shoulder to shoulder with more famous climbing destinations.
Sport climbing is defined by its immediacy. Reaching the anchor safely brings instant gratification—the undeniable knowledge that you’ve sent the route. The long path to get there—countless failed attempts, endless hours of bouldering and training—all fades away in that moment of pure euphoria as the rope runs through the chains and you lower back down to the earth.
For a route developer, two moments stand out above all: your own first ascent of a new line, and the very first repeat by good friends. Twice the effort, but twice the reward. Florian and Marinus have discovered a remarkably positive approach to climbing, which Florian sums up naturally.
"I'm genuinely 100% stoked for anyone who sends a new route or breaks into a new grade. Seeing my climbing partner push beyond their limits sparks fresh energy in me, too. Naturally, you compare yourself and strive to improve. But that only makes it sweeter when you see fellow climbers doing the same and evolving alongside you."
For Florian, climbing remains at heart a dirtbag sport. Unpretentious, grounded, with a love for understatement. As he sees it, the climbing community is heading in a great direction. For Marinus, the most essential thing is that climbers meet each other with respect and leave their egos behind. His personal motto, "THE MOUNTAINS SHALL BRING PEACE TO THE PEOPLE," is something he lives out every single day.
As certified sport climbing instructors, both inspire the next generation of young climbers in Reit im Winkl. Fresh lines meet a hungry new wave of talent. It is yet another testament to the fact that their work on the rock is both deeply fulfilling and purposeful. One can only wish for the entire climbing community to continue experiencing nature with this same pure passion. #mountinspirepeople
#mountinspirepeople
Photo credit: Stefan Götschl