Climbing in Alicante, Spain
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Hello! I will be traveling from the US to Spain and be in the Alicante area in late May. I've ordered the Costa Blanca guide, but it hasn't arrived yet. Was wondering if any folks have any insight on which areas/crags might be worth a visit (Benidorm, Calpe, Alicante, Murcia, Xalo, Gandia), and any ideas on where the best place to land for accommodations might be. We will likely just have 3 days to climb, and we will be sport climbing. Up to 5.11 range, so mostly moderate. We are heading to a wedding in Alicante afterwards, but will have a car. Trying to decide whether or not to pack camping gear, or just look for cheap lodging so we can travel a little lighter. Am doing some online research, but would super appreciate any insight from folks that have been to or are familiar with the area. Thanks much! |
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There is so much climbing in the costa Blanca area it's mind boggling. I went there last November and had a blast. We stayed at the Orange house hostel in Finestrat. It's owned by Rich Mayfield, a British climber and one of the very active route developers in the area. The hostel caters towards climbers, has several accommodation options including camping, the staff are all climbers, know the local crags and speak English. The rockfax guide is very useful but there are so many routes being put up all the time it just can't keep pace. Beware of the easier routes at the older crags as those can be desperately polished. You'll need a car for sure to get around but you'll have a great time no matter what. It will likely be getting pretty warm by that time so you'll want to be seeking shade and/or some of the DWS routes. Feel free to PM me if you want additional info. |
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Check out Sella. Close to Alicante, and offers really good techy sport climbing in a very pretty canyon. |
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Thanks much for the ideas! Will check out the Orange House Hostel and look into Sella. Getting pretty jazzed :) |
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Check this site casaroc.com/ |