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As every climber knows, Spain has several unique features that make it an excellent destination for rock climbing. What about France, then? Or Italy and Croatia? Discover why Spain is considered the world’s best rock-climbing destination by diving deep into three of its most-renowned climbing areas.
#### Guided rock climbing in Mallorca
#### Guided rock climbing in Catalunya
#### Guided rock climbing in Tenerife
For decades, the strongest climbers worldwide had Spain on their bucket list: where all the hardest routes are packed. Think about La Dura Dura, Estado Critico, and La Rambla… eventually, they deeply connected with the climbing culture and a community of strong climbers, developing a vibrant, international, and welcoming environment. Luckily, these vibes are still there! By traveling to Spain for rock climbing, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with fellow climbers, share experiences, and benefit from the collective knowledge and support of the climbing community. Many climbing areas in Spain have well-established infrastructure, including campsites, climbing shops, guide services, and climbing festivals, further enhancing the overall climbing experience. We’ll list the best of them in each chapter of this article.
Spain’s wide range of climbing areas and climbing routes score points. From limestone cliffs and sea cliffs to granite walls and volcanic crags, Spain offers something for every rock climber's preference, ability, and taste, especially if you’ve just started moving the first steps into the climbing world. Some popular climbing areas include Siurana, Montserrat, El Chorro, Rodellar, and Margalef.
Expect these vibes if you're planning to go climbing in Monserrat © Esteban Lahoz
Let’s not forget about the most critical factor, though… Favorable weather conditions! That’s something you can’t predict, and since you have few options but to plan your holiday… unstable weather might be a problem! Forget this if you’re heading to Spain, mainly Catalonia, Andalusia, and Aragon. With a Mediterranean climate, mild winters, and long climbing seasons, Spain provides ample opportunities for outdoor climbing throughout the year. Climbers can enjoy longer days and pleasant temperatures, which enhance the overall climbing experience.
These factors combine to make Spain the best destination for rock climbers worldwide. With its variety of climbing areas, favorable weather conditions, extensive route options, welcoming climbing community, and captivating landscapes, Spain promises an unforgettable rock-climbing experience.
There’s only one thing missing: to decide where to go climbing! Let’s not forget that Spain is the fourth largest country in Europe, including the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, the Canary Islands off the northwest coast of Africa, and several smaller islands and territories. That’s why we wanted to scout, select and list 5 of Spain’s best rock-climbing areas to provide general information about the destination itself, some information about the best sport-climbing and DWS crags, logistics, and options for guided rock climbing.
Deep Water Soloing in Mallorca be like… © Chris Burkard
Planning a trip to Mallorca, the stunning Mediterranean island in Spain, is an exciting endeavor. To ensure a smooth and memorable climbing experience, being well-prepared is essential. Whether captivated by the island's breathtaking Deep Water Soloing cliffs or sport-climbing crags, here are some essential tips before embarking on your Mallorca adventure.
Mallorca experiences a peak tourist season during the summer, so consider visiting during the quieter shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October). This will allow you to enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodations.
When planning a climbing adventure in Mallorca, it's essential to pack the right gear to ensure your safety and maximize your experience on the island's breathtaking cliffs. We’ll take for granted you always pack your essentials like sunscreen, a hat, appropriate clothing, and plenty of water to stay hydrated while climbing in Mallorca's sunny and warm climate ;).
Depending on the climbing activity you want to practice, there are a few pieces of gear you don’t want to forget at home, such as:
You won't climb on Chris Sharma's projects but… Mallorca offers high-quality cliffs for every level! © Chris Burkard
With its rugged cliffs, limestone formations, and breathtaking landscapes, Mallorca boasts some of the best climbing spots in the world. Here are a few must-visit destinations for climbing enthusiasts:
Exploring the stunning island of Mallorca is made convenient and accessible through its efficient public transportation system. That said, if you’re explicitly traveling for climbing, the best option is renting a car and being autonomous: most crags are challenging to reach only by public transportation. If you don’t have this option, you’re traveling alone, or climbing is just a random activity you want to experience while exploring the island, here are the best ways to get around Mallorca:
Buses and trains in Mallorca generally operate on a fixed schedule, and departure times are usually available at the stations or online. During the peak tourist season, services tend to be more frequent, ensuring more accessible access to various destinations. You should check the schedules and plan your trips to maximize your time on the island. Mallorca has implemented an integrated ticketing system called the Tarjeta Intermodal. This smart card allows seamless transfers between different modes of public transportation, including buses, trains, and the metro. With the Tarjeta Intermodal, you can enjoy discounted fares and the convenience of using a single ticket for multiple journeys. Consider purchasing the "Mallorca Pass" or the "Palma Pass" if you plan to explore multiple attractions and use public transportation frequently. These passes offer unlimited travel on buses, trains, and the metro and discounted entry to popular tourist sites and attractions.
Boat tours are the best way to understand and experience Mallorca's DWS potential © Chris Burkard
If you plan to enjoy the island for some sport-climbing or chill DWS, you don't need much more than a car. Suppose you plan a more serious trip to explore Mallorca's finest Deep Water Soloing spots. In that case, we recommend renting a boat or contacting local businesses like Rock & Water Mallorca.
If you're new to rock climbing or prefer the guidance of professionals, Mallorca offers a variety of guided rock climbing experiences. These guided tours ensure your safety and provide valuable instruction and local knowledge to enhance your climbing adventure.
Several local businesses with Certified Guides are available for Climbing, DWS, and Canyoning. We highly recommend Rock & Water Mallorca, a reputable guiding company specializing in outdoor adventures, with whom we organize our trip to Mallorca Climbing Dream Island, helping hundreds of climbers experience an unforgettable climbing holiday in Mallorca. Rock & Water’s experienced guides are certified and passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for climbing. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber, they offer tailored experiences to match your skill level and goals. They provide all the necessary equipment and focus on safety while providing an enjoyable and educational climbing experience. With a variety of routes and locations to choose from, Rock & Water Mallorca ensures a memorable and fulfilling rock climbing adventure.
An overview of Monserrat's rock walls © Esteban Lahoz
Suppose you're planning a rock climbing trip to Catalonia, considered the best sport-climbing destination worldwide by most climbers. In that case, several important things must be considered to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience. Catalonia, located in northeastern Spain, only 2 hours drive from Barcelona, offers a wealth of climbing opportunities, from the iconic limestone cliffs of Montserrat to the world-class crags of Siurana and Margalef. Here are vital factors to know before planning your rock-climbing trip to Catalonia.
Catalonia's climbing season typically spans autumn to spring, with cooler temperatures and more favorable weather conditions. Summers can be hot, making climbing uncomfortable, so plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your climbing adventure.
Catalonia offers routes for climbers of all skill levels, but it's essential to familiarize yourself with the grading systems and climbing styles used in the region. Catalonia's most common grading system is the French scale (from 5a to 9c), so please make sure you understand the grading conversion if you're accustomed to a different system. Also, Catalonia offers both sport climbing and traditional climbing opportunities, so please be aware of the style of climbing you prefer and choose the best routes.
We suggest you invest in a comprehensive guidebook specific to climbing in Catalonia. Guidebooks provide valuable information about climbing areas, route descriptions, access points, and safety considerations. They are an indispensable resource for planning your climbing trip. Also, you can look for local knowledge through online forums, climbing communities, or connecting with local climbers who can offer insights, tips, and updates about the climbing areas.
Make sure you have the appropriate climbing gear for your trip. This includes harnesses, helmets, ropes, quickdraws, and protective equipment. A special mention for climbing shoes and ropes: depending on the area where you will climb, you may want to wear different types of climbing shoes: opt for a more stiff climbing shoe if you’re climbing on the dead-vertical walls of Siurana like the Scarpa VSR or La Sportiva Testarossa. If you’re heading to Margalef, where the angle of the wall is generally steeper, a softer shoe could be a game-changer. What about the Scarpa Drago or the La Sportiva Solution Comp?
The rope you will be using will impact your experience: we suggest getting at least a 70 meters-long rope, or even better, an 80 meters-long one.
Bring adequate chalk supplies, tape, and other personal climbing accessories. Remember that each climbing area around Catalunya will likely have at least one climbing gear shop, where you can find shoes, chalk, knee pads, clothes for rock climbing, and everything in between.
Last but not least, be mindful of the environmental impact of your climbing activities, especially if you’re traveling there during the summer period. It’s been a while since the whole Oliana crag got hit by a massive wildfire. As outdoor lovers, we should do everything we can to pristine the natural environment.
Follow Leave No Trace principles, respect access agreements, and be considerate of local regulations and ethics. Every area guidebook will provide specific information about good habits, regulations, and bans. Help preserve the natural beauty of Catalonia's climbing areas for future generations to enjoy.
Margalef always stands out…especially when the sun sets © Esteban Lahoz
Catalonia boasts diverse climbing areas, each with unique characteristics and challenges. Montserrat is famous for its distinctive conglomerate rock formations and spiritual ambiance. Siurana is renowned for its steep limestone cliffs and challenging sports routes. Margalef offers pockets and tufas on its compact limestone walls, attracting climbers worldwide. You can research the different climbing areas in Catalonia to determine which ones align with your style and preferences. Here are some of our favorite ones.
Margalef and Siurana are two of the most renowned rock climbing destinations in Catalunya, if not in the world, attracting climbers worldwide with their breathtaking landscapes and exceptional climbing opportunities. Here's a glimpse into these iconic climbing spots:
Margalef: Nestled amidst the stunning Montsant Natural Park, Margalef is famous for its compact limestone cliffs, steep overhangs, pockets, and tufas. Climbers flock to Margalef for its abundance of high-quality sport climbing routes, offering a wide range of grades and styles to suit all abilities. The area boasts a variety of sectors, each with its unique characteristics and challenges. Some notable sectors include the steep and challenging Raco de la Finestra sector. Margalef's scenic beauty and diverse and challenging routes make it a must-visit destination for rock climbing enthusiasts.
Siurana: Perched atop a dramatic ridge overlooking the Siurana Reservoir, the village of Siurana offers an awe-inspiring setting for rock climbing. Siurana is renowned for its world-class limestone cliffs, featuring vertical to overhanging walls with small holds and technical movements. The area is primarily known for its exceptional sport climbing routes, catering to intermediate and advanced climbers. Siurana is divided into several sectors, each offering its unique style and difficulty level. The iconic El Pati sector is a favorite among climbers, with its challenging routes set against a picturesque backdrop. Siurana's striking views, superb rock quality, and challenging climbs make it a must-visit destination for climbers seeking an unforgettable experience.
Monserrat: located just a short distance from Barcelona, is a unique and enchanting climbing destination that offers a memorable experience for climbers of all levels. Its distinctive conglomerate rock formations, jagged peaks, and spiritual ambiance create an extraordinary setting for rock climbing. Some of the best climbing spots in Montserrat include Gorros, known for its quality climbs and breathtaking views. It offers a wide range of routes, from easy to challenging, making it suitable for climbers of various skill levels. The conglomerate rock provides unique features such as pockets, crimps, and cracks, adding to the diversity and excitement of the climbing experience. Gorros is a must-visit spot for climbers seeking a combination of great routes and stunning vistas - keep in mind that Gorros is one of the most popular crags in Monserrat, so you can find some crowd at the cliff during the weekends, and the rock-climbing peak tourism season. El Cavall Bernat is an iconic formation in Montserrat, recognized for its striking resemblance to a horse's head. It offers a selection of challenging and classic routes that attract experienced climbers looking for a thrilling ascent. The rock quality is excellent, and the exposed nature of the climbs adds an extra element of excitement. Climbing Cavall Bernat rewards climbers with a physical challenge and awe-inspiring panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Rodellar and the Spanish Pyrenees are renowned for their world-class climbing opportunities, attracting climbers from around the globe with their stunning landscapes and exceptional rock formations. Located in the mountains, this area provides cooler temperatures and is a good option if you travel to Catalunya during the summer. Rodellar is a picturesque village in the Sierra de Guara Natural Park, offering some of the finest limestone cliffs in Spain. Known for its steep and challenging routes, Rodellar is a paradise for sports climbers. The area features stunning vertical walls, impressive overhangs, and breathtaking tufas, providing various routes for climbers of all levels. Some notable sectors in Rodellar include Mascún, Alquezar, and Piscineta, each offering its unique style and difficulty level. The beautiful scenery, high-quality rock, and technical climbs make Rodellar a must-visit destination for climbers seeking an unforgettable experience.
The Spanish Pyrenees are a treasure trove of climbing opportunities, with diverse rock types and stunning alpine landscapes. Several notable climbing areas are scattered throughout the Pyrenees, each with a distinct charm. Riglos, known for its iconic conglomerate rock formations, offers adventurous multi-pitch routes that provide a unique climbing experience. The Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park is another highlight, featuring breathtaking limestone cliffs and majestic peaks. This area offers sports and traditional climbing routes amidst a spectacular natural setting. Other notable climbing spots in the Spanish Pyrenees include Cavaliers, Vilanova de Meia, and Terradets, all offering a variety of routes and challenges for climbers.
Beyond Margalef, Siurana, Montserrat, and Rodellar lies an incredible amount of rock in Catalunya. The area, also known as Costa Daurada, hides 5-star climbing areas like Mont-Ral, La Mussara, and La Riba. Guidebooks specific to the area can provide detailed information on routes, access points, and any specific considerations.
Catalunya offers a well-developed and efficient public transportation system, making it convenient for travelers to explore the region's vibrant cities, picturesque towns, and breathtaking landscapes. Again, we recommend being autonomous in your There's what you need to know about public transportation:
If you want to enhance your rock climbing experience and explore Catalunya's best routes, guided rock climbing tours are a fantastic option. Whether you’re a solo traveler or traveling with a small group of friends, Rockbusters is the best option. They organize intensive and performance-oriented Beginner, Advanced, performance coaching classes and a Europe Trip. That’s the best way to enjoy some quality routes alongside professional climbers such as Paxi Usobiaga and Klemen Becan.
Climbing in Tenerife © Tenerife Climbing House
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is renowned for its abundant sunshine, expansive coastline stretching over 400km, charming historic ports, luxurious resorts, and delectable cuisine. While the island has gained popularity as a holiday destination in recent years, it still harbors hidden gems for adventurous souls seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. Among them are stunning nature reserves and truly exceptional rock-climbing locations. In terms of rock-climbing potential, nature has been very erratic in Tenerife. The island’s unique volcanic basalt has been molded into incredible shapes, meaning every climbing area boasts something magical.
Escape the chilly winters of continental Europe and bask in Tenerife's year-round sunshine, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers. In the summer, a pleasant sea breeze keeps temperatures from sweltering, ensuring a comfortable climate. Moreover, It’s always possible to find areas in the sun—or shade—and most of the crags come in and out of the sun throughout the day.
The island's compact size allows convenient access to its many attractions, most just a 45-minute drive away. Picture starting your day with a rejuvenating hike through lush forests, followed by a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear ocean waters, and culminating in a delectable seafood feast with breathtaking views of the snow-capped slopes of Mount Teide. Tenerife offers an array of experiences within easy reach, making it a paradise for those seeking diverse and memorable adventures.
Remember that many of the best crags on Tenerife are clustered around Arico, in the Southeast of the island. In this picturesque area, you'll discover Tenerife Climbing House, a charming bed and breakfast tailored to the needs of climbers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Since Tenerife offers many climbing opportunities - from steep sport climbing to bouldering, deep water soloing, and trad climbing, we recommend planning your holiday carefully. You’ll find tons of information online; remember, you can purchase the local climbing guidebook or stop by Tenerife Climbing House for some rest while conversing with Elena and Erik, the owners of the B&B, passionate climbers, and local climbing developers. That’s also where Mapo Tapo organizes its Tenerife Climb & Chill trips!
Arico crag rises in this beautiful canyon, where you'll find share and a cool breeze even during the hottest period of the year © Tenerife Climbing House
Many of the best crags on Tenerife are clustered around Arico, in the Southeast of the island. This is where you’ll find Climbing House Tenerife, a B&B designed with climbers and other outdoorsy people in mind. The crag of Arico itself is well worth a visit - over 250 routes, between IV+ and 8c+, characterized by powerful bouldering moves. Tamadaya, nearby, is an excellent spot for beginners as it offers over 50 well-bolted routes up to 6b+ and a straightforward approach. To get a little more off the beaten track, read our article Rock Climbing in Tenerife: Our Top 5 Spots.
Tenerife offers a convenient and reliable public transportation system that makes exploring the island a breeze. Here's a brief overview of the public transportation options in Tenerife:
It's worth noting that Tenerife's public transportation system is well-integrated, allowing you to easily switch between buses, trams, and taxis if needed. Additionally, TITSA offers discounted cards, such as the Bono Bus, which provides savings on multiple journeys.
Elena is not only a fantastic host a Tenerife Climbing House: she's also an excellent rock climber! © Tenerife Climbing House
Embarking on a guided rock climbing experience in Tenerife is an excellent choice for climbers of all levels, whether you're a beginner seeking guidance or an experienced climber looking to explore the island's premier climbing spots. With the help of knowledgeable guides, you can discover the best routes, improve your skills, and safely navigate the diverse rock formations Tenerife has to offer.
We highly recommend Tenerife Climbing House, a long-time partner of Mapo Tapo. It is a popular bed and breakfast for climbers and offers professionally guided climbing tours thanks to Erik and its colleagues. With experienced and certified guides, they provide tailored climbing experiences that cater to different skill levels and preferences. If you’re traveling with friends, Tenerife Climbing House can create a customized itinerary to suit your needs and offer you a climber-specific accommodation. If you’re a solo traveler, the best option is to step in and ask if someone is planning to go climbing during the next few days, or if you’re planning your trip, you can join a Group climbing trip to Tenerife.
As we conclude our exploration of the best rock-climbing areas in Spain, it becomes evident that this country truly offers some of the finest climbing experiences in Europe. From the stunning cliffs of Mallorca to the rugged beauty of Catalunya and the Canary Islands, Spain presents a diverse range of climbing opportunities for enthusiasts of all levels. If you seek limestone crags, deep-water soloing spots, or granite walls, Spain has it all.
With its rich climbing heritage, world-class routes, and breathtaking landscapes, Spain has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination for climbers from around the globe. The combination of excellent weather, varied terrain, and a vibrant climbing community make it an irresistible choice for those searching for adventure and adrenaline.
So, if you're planning your next climbing trip, include Spain on your list. Explore the diverse climbing areas covered, from Mallorca to Catalunya and Tenerife, and dive into the vibrant climbing culture that awaits you. Whether you're a seasoned climber looking for a challenge or a beginner seeking new horizons, Spain promises unforgettable experiences and lifelong memories.
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