Combeauvieux Rock Climbing

A cragging area set in the forest above the ski area at Clot de la Balme, which is just south of Villard-de-Lans. Nice views of the country side below. The rocks’ location is of course overshadowed by Gerbier and the Grand Moucherolle to the east.

With around 60 routes, from very easy to hard (2 to 8b), mostly single pitch but several short multi-pitch routes, this area has something for climbers at any ability level. The rock here tends to be superb; nicely featured limestone. Cracks, corners, face, pockets, overhangs, roofs, and even the occasional tufa feature with most routes well equipped with newer bolts. Some opportunity for gear placement too. A 60m single rope suffices for most routes here.

The popular season tends to be May through September and into October, weather permitting.

The area is comprised of 4 sectors:

Secteur de la Dalle

Located up above and to the left of Secteur du Triangle, this area has more difficult routes from 6a to 8b.

Secteur du Triangle

The most popular spot with good moderate routes. Grades range from 4a to 6c.

Secteur des Toits

The “roof” sector with routes from 5c to 8a, above and to the right from the Triangle sector.

Secteur de la Terrasse

Comprised of tightly equipped routes perfect for initiation. Located on a (very) short, shady cliff band below the Triangle.