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La Manzaneda

International > Europe > Spain > Asturias

Description

Sunny crags with decent exposure and a very accessible range of routes and grades. There is essentially no rain-cover at the crag but with only a little bit of sun, the rock dries up quickly.

Due to its proximity to Oviedo, the crag can be busy on weekends, but don't let that deter you from going. There is moderate space at the base of the climbs. Climbs range from IV+ to 8b and are very well protected.

The crag is divided into four sections: La Cantera, Central, La Ruda, and Arnea. If you climb 5.10 consistently, then Central and La Ruda are for you. Arnea has a separate approach from the three other sections and is signficantly more difficult.

La Cantera has 8 slab routes ranging from IV+ to 6c+.
Central is the largest and most consistently difficult section with 20 routes ranging from V+ to 7b.
La Ruda has a trickier approach and 10 shorter lines between V+ and 7a+

Arnea is not located at the same crag as the other three sections but it is accessed by the same city of La Manzaneda. Arnea, like other crags in Asturias, is closed between Feb 15 and June 30 because of bird nesting on the cliff. Most climbs at Arnea are slightly overhanging on small sharp crimps and polished footholds. 22 lines between V+ and 8b.

Getting There

Once in the small parking lot at the top of the town, walk up the hill following the road until you reach the former quarry. The approach to Manzaneda starts to the right of the quarry. Walk no more than five minutes to reach the first section of the crag. Be careful on the path because there are many prickers and thorn bushes on the sides of the trail.

The approach to Arnea is significantly more difficult. Instead of turning right to enter the former quarry, continue up the hill on the paved road. This is the only road in the town that continues up the hill. Walk for about 3 minutes until you reach the soccer field on your right. The parking for Arnea is just past the soccer field on the right side of the road. The approach to the crag is on the left side of the road. It is marked by a large white sign that explains the restriction on climbing in the spring. This trail is often muddy and is fairly overgrown but it is easy to follow. It will take 7-10 minutes to reach the crag.

Photos [Hide ALL Photos]

Beautiful view of La Manzaneda from La Cantera
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Photo by Simon Post
[Hide Photo] Beautiful view of La Manzaneda from La Cantera Photo by Simon Post
James Bond resting on the slab.
[Hide Photo] James Bond resting on the slab.
View of the valley from the Manzaneda crag
[Hide Photo] View of the valley from the Manzaneda crag
James Bond working on Erotismo (5.11c)
[Hide Photo] James Bond working on Erotismo (5.11c)