Category: Ponoch - Mountain Journeys - Guided Walks

Mountaineering day on Ponoch

19/2/2020

#ponoch-via-ferrata

The huge face of Ponoch

After a day of single pitch lead climbing yesterday, Jo & Michelle were keen for bigger adventures today. So we headed to the mighty Ponoch (Monte Ponoig) to sample the via ferrata there.

Despite the weather looking slightly unsettled, the car park was fairly busy and one other team had the same objective in mind.

We set off at quite a pace, so gained height and the base of the route very rapidly. After a briefing on kit usage and safety procedures, we set off up the 'iron way'. It is steep and unrelenting from the start, but with good technique there is no need for this to feel overly strenuous.
We soon gained ground over the other team, so was nice for all to have plenty of space. Lots of photo time for Michelle.

Our aim had been to then continue from the top to include the brilliant scramble on to the summit plateau. Alas, rain and thick cloud put a dampener on this and we called it a day. Making our way over to the abseil stations. Stacked abseils all the way for added safety, we whizzed back down to base. Lunch under these awesome walls before a gentle walk back to base.
After tea and coffee back at base, it was back out for some late afternoon sunshine. Trail running this time. Just a short one at about 6km, but enough given what we had already achieved.

A grand day out, thanks to Jo & Michelle.

Mark

#outdoor-activities-costa-blanca

About to set off on the Via Ferrata (photo courtesy of Michelle)

#via-ferrata-costa-blanca

A short traverse section part way up

Mountaineering on Ponoch

22/10/2019

#ponoch-via-ferrata-costa-blanca

Moonrise over Ponoch

Many still consider the Costa Blanca to be a mix of seaside resorts and for climbers at least, the home to many excellent sport climbing crags. Both are true, the region is blessed with many good resorts full of wonderful beaches and yes the sport climbing here does seem almost endless. And we are regularly discovering more bolted routes and whole crags under development, so there's lots more to come, meaning lots more to come back for.

But there is more....so much more!

Look away from the roadside bolted crags, turn your heads to the mountains and see a whole new world of possibility. Two of the biggest crags in the region - Ponoch and Puig Campana - actually have their very own guidebooks, and justifiably so, such is the extent of routes.
Whilst we can't claim to know every route on these massive faces, we do know. some of the classic lines on both and importantly, we know how to safely get off these mountains, which isn't as easy as many may think!

Last week we had the pleasure of showing 3 visiting climbers: Janine; Paul; and Emma around the mighty Ponoch. Whilst all were competent sport and trad climbers, they considered a guide being a worthwhile investment for a big day on the Ponoch. And as we start with a Via Ferrata, they also don't need to worry about having their own lanyards, as we provide these. The ferrata section allows for rapid progress up the mountain and we gained the top of this within the hour. A rest followed whilst we discussed the ridge scramble ahead of us. Paul decided to opt out and instead enjoy a good book whilst sunbathing, and why not!
Janine and Emma were super keen for the scramble, so we sorted the rope and set off, initially along a narrow ridge which soon becomes a buttress. The views and situations are truly phenomenal on this route and we took our time in order to fully appreciate this.
Once at the top, a series of abseils followed by a scree run brought us back to Paul and his book. We all then continued down to the next series of abseils to reach the base of the mountain.

As with so many things, once the procedure is know and route logged, this is all straightforward, but for a first time visitor to this mountain, trying to find all these abseils would be quite daunting. Same goes for the big routes on Puig Campana. It's not so much the reaching the top that's difficult, it's returning to base safely. That's where we can help!

A grand day out in the sun, thanks to Janine, Paul, and Emma.

Mark

#via-ferrata-ponoch-costa-blanca

Enjoying the via ferrata section

#mountaineering-costa-blanca-spain

Emma nearing the top of the scramble

Back in the Costa Blanca - 2019 season

12/10/2019

#mountaineering-and-climbing-costa-blanca

Michael enjoy some wild exposure high up on Ponoch

It's been just over a week since arriving back out in Spain and the 'winter' season has already started, with loads going on.

Now I say winter, but recent temperatures have been very summer like, and often over 30C during the middle of the day. We have been starting activities early as a result. The weather is cooling off a little now though, so normal service can be resumed.

Already a couple of adventures on the massive crag of Ponoch, arguably the most impressive face of rock in the region. First of was a solo via ferrata / scramble / run for me. And a few days later back again with Michael, who had previously done the via ferrata but not the scramble. And like many others who venture onto this extensive face, found the descent difficult to locate, so he was keen to know more. And being a seasoned mountaineer, Michael obviously wanted to complete the scramble up to the plateau too, well why not.
We cruised up all of it, taking a little breather before then beginning the descent, this involves 2 abseils, a scree run, some scrambling, and 2 more abseils. So plenty to keep the mind and body occupied.
Even though we had set out early, the heat of the day was taking its toll on us and we were both feeling somewhat sun kissed on the final descent.
Looking back up at that massive crag and following our route up to the plateau confirmed it was very much worth all the sweat (and there was lots)!
Such a brilliant mountaineering day out.

If considering attempting this route, as an absolute minimum a 60m rope is required for the abseils. Standard VF kit. For the scramble it's possible to use direct belays as and when required, so no nuts/cams needed, but bear in mind the rock is very sharp and can quickly take a toll on your lovely sport climbing rope!!

We've also had the pleasure of welcoming Andi, Harriet, and Kerry to the Costa Blanca. Andi has visited a few times already and was keen to show friends how much fun can be had here.

We kicked off with a visit to Cala Testos. Yes it's a beach, but no ordinary beach. There is a technical descent to access this beautiful little cove. After some abseil practice, a swim, some climbing to get back out. We proceeded to a nearby beach bar for welcome refreshments before exploring some of the nearby sea caves.
Next up for the girls was a day by the pool here at Atalaya. A relaxing day before we head out to Sierra de Toix for some climbing.
Starting early we managed to keep in the cool of the shade for a few hours and enjoy the wonderful Limestone routes at Toix far Oeste. By early afternoon it was time for a cool off. So the girls aimed for the nearby beaches of Mascarat.

To round the activities off, we had a walk to the Cova del Dalt and up to Es Crestall. The Cova is hugely impressive and so easy to reach. Back in the UK this would be mobbed with visitors, here it's usually empty, as it was today. Summit views were spectacular too, with Mallarda de Llop and Aitana both clearly visible and some puffy clouds around to add atmosphere.
It was more pool action back at the villa and a night out in nearby Denia for the girls, followed by more night-time pool fun and games. Well why not, it's what holidays are for right.

A big thanks to Andi, Kerry, Harriet, and Michael - it's been a pleasure and a privilege.

Mark

#guided-walks-costa-blanca

Summit of Es Crestall, with Mallada de Llop and Aitana in the background

#walking-holiday-spain

Cala Moraig

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After a hot day in the mountains, this is the perfect welcome home

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Montgo dominates over Jesus Pobre

Mountaineering day - Ponoch - Costa Blanca

25/2/2019

#adventure-days-ponoch

Enjoying superb scrambling high on Ponoch

Yesterday we were back enjoying the amazing atmosphere of Ponoch. This giant of a mountain provides some of the most committing and challenging climbs in the region, with all being long and even the 'easy' climbs weighing it at E1!!

For those not looking for super long rock climbs, there is an alternative, and it's every bit as good. To start we followed the Via Ferrata, this is about 250m of vertical ascent and pretty steep. For many this is enough and the nearby and well equipped abseil stations provide a quick and straightforward way down. But for anyone looking for a bit more adventure, mixed in with route finding fun, there is a grade 3 scramble weaving a way up onto the summit plateau.

We tackled this, picking our way through the rocky terrain, exploring our route options as we go and I was leaving route finding to Jo and Steve, as they'd never been up here before. The crux lies in the upper section and is equipped with a fixed rope, but it does still feel like grade 3 scrambling and the exposure is massive.

Topping out onto the plateau just left us with an easy walk over to the abseil station that links up with the lower abseils. Again, Steve was keen to take charge of the abseils, which was rather nice.

A grand day out with lovely people and even better scenery than I'd remembered.

Thanks to Jo & Steve

Mark

#rock-climbing-course-lake-district

On the initial ridge of the Ponoch scramble

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Nearing the top, with the summit plateau now nearby

Via Valencianos, Ponoch

22/2/2019

#trad-climbing-ponoch-costa-blanca

The huge south face of Ponoch. Home to some of the longest and most demanding climbing in the region

For years now we've had a big climbing route on the mighty Ponoch in our sights, on our wish list. But it kept evading us, the time just wasn't right, until this week.

After some friends climbed the route a couple of weeks back, my enthusiasm suddenly gathered momentum for the route, and for a massive adventure. Thankfully another climbing friend was also very keen on the route and had also had it on his 'to-do' list for some years. A plan was hatched and the excitement began. Whilst we have both climbed big routes before, this certainly felt (to me at least) like a step up from previous adventures on Puig Campana, in fact I'd say it almost makes the Puig Campana feel tame!!

The route we had in mind, Via Valencianos, is a 500 metre E1 / 6a trad climb. There would be some easy pitches, even some walking, but there would also be some tough climbing and route finding on such a massive piece of rock was always going to be the biggest challenge. Getting that wrong up there would be serious and we both stayed completely focused the whole time.

Setting off from the car park at around 9.15am on a sunny morning all was looking well. The first few pitches went smoothly too, all was looking rosy. Somewhere on pitch 4 things started to fall apart a little. We were uncertain of the route, things were suddenly not obvious, and the climbing was a little bit tougher than we were expecting. We both clearly had doubts about what to do next.

Do we continue or retreat whilst we still can?
Whilst it was Neil leading this pitch, this was a discussion we were both totally involved in, we were in this together and had lots to consider, including our safety. What I took away from the discussions we had at that time, is the importance to support each other and to remain flexible regarding outcomes and objectives. Getting to the top is optional, returning to base is mandatory. We were both on this wavelength and that is a good feeling.

It was decided to continue and thankfully things soon improved and we were back on track, phew! The first of the crux pitches lay straight ahead of us and looked formidable. A huge traverse across a smooth shield of limestone, this was going to be amazing and I couldn't wait, I think Neil felt the same.
Neil led this pitch, cruising across with seemingly little effort. I thoroughly enjoyed the pitch too and led through up the next pitch, which was easier but less well protected and with plenty of loose rock, so felt scary. More good climbing and amazing positions followed as well as a couple of walking pitches, these linked the good bits of rock.

Neil also led the upper crux pitch, this was the hardest technical climbing on the route and even though it had some fixed protection, it felt like E1 to us. I had the pleasure of leading the final pitch up to the summit plateau. Whilst this pitch had some loose rock again, it was enjoyable and full of interest. Topping out was a very fine feeling indeed and we were both elated.

We had a pretty good idea where to aim for to find the initial abseil station to start our descent and indeed found this within just a few minutes. A 40m abseil took to to scree above the top of the via ferrata and we quickly descended to the next abseil station to take us down to the base of the mountain.

Just under 9 hours from start to finish. That was without rushing the route, but being efficient and keeping breaks and change-overs to a minimum. This felt a pretty good time for such a long and intricate route.

A couple of beers in our local bar that evening tasted ever so good :-)

Big thanks to Neil for climbing this with me, good company and climbing the whole way.

Mark

#guided-climbing-costa-blanca

High up on the climb

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On our way to the abseil station and our return to base

Multi-activity - Costa Blanca

23/11/2018

#rockclimbingholidaycostablanca

Part of the Toix ridge with El Penon as backdrop

Nearing the end of their week here and I think now feeling suitably 'refreshed', Allan & Kim may have experienced fairly mixed weather, but there's been plenty of T-shirt and shades time and we've managed to get out loads :-)

An afternoon at Toix far Oeste kick-started the week, getting a feel for the sharp Limestone of Costa Blanca and things to come. Next up was the mighty Ponoch, climbing its Via Ferrata, enjoying amazing views over to the Bernia ridge then abseiling back down. Coffee and cake treats at Coll de Rates on the way home rounded off another fine day.

Ridge scrambling was next up. The Toix Integral. Starting on the Toix Este crags we climbed a 130m route before joining the narrow crest up to the Mirador in time for lunch. A short walk led us to the main Toix crags with 3 pitches taking us up to the ridge and 2 pitches along the knife edge crest! Easy, but exposed scrambling remains. Happy faces all round :-)

Another day of contrast coming up. We climbed Sonjannika on the Morro Falqui sea cliffs. This 180m route up the magnificent south face is indeed a stunning line, weaving its way up some Improbable terrain. We went for an alternate finish this time, scrambling along ledges to reach the super fun 'Coming out' route as our way of topping out.

A fun and diverse week, now for some rest.....

Mark

#rockclimbingnearcalpe

Toix ridge looking towards Bernia

#viaferratacostablanca

Ponoch via ferrata

#guidedrockclimbingcostablanca

Pitch 3 of Sonjannika, Morro Falqui

Ponoch via ferrata

10/11/2018

#viaferrataguidecostablanca

Enjoying the Ponoch via ferrata

Yesterday we had the pleasure of introducing Julio, Jenny, and Jackie to the delights of Via Ferrata. For this we went to the magnificent south face of Ponoch / Ponoig, which lies a short way inland from the bustling tourist resort of Benidorm.

The amount of rock on Ponoch is unbelievable, as is the scale.This means that few venture onto the epic climbs weaving up the crag. For most these are all day routes, arduous, and come with plenty of adventure! To the right of the crag is a via ferrata, one of the finest in the region. It allows access to this impressive crag without the big commitment of the trad routes. Roughly following the line of an old E1 trad route, it covers plenty of steep terrain and the exposure is completely wild, but it's all very fast.

After gearing up, we enjoyed an easy approach walk of only about 20 minutes, a blast up the route followed by some scrambling down to reach the abseil station. 2 abseils, each of no more than 30m and touchdown back at the base of the crag. Easy walking leads back to the parking area. A leisurely 4 hours, including plenty of breaks, photos stops, and simply enjoying the views.

Big thanks to Julio, Jenny, and Jackie. Also to Kate for helping.

Mark

#costablancaviaferrata

Almost at the top

#viaferratacostablanca

And now for the descent :-)

#ponochviaferrataspain

The enormous south face of Ponoch

Multi-activity week - Costa Blanca

4/11/2017

#stackedabseilcostablanca

Jenni, Francie, and Lauren about to abseil after the Ponoch Via Ferrata

It's been a hectic and hugely fun week for us here. We welcomed back the Hewett family and friends for multi-activities and adventures and all things rock in Costa Blanca :-)
Now with 2 small babies, activities were going to need some flexibility from all sides, so I had lots of plan b's (even more than usual) this week.

As a gentle warm up we all enjoyed a walk to Les Arcs, to see the dramatic rock arches above Castell de Castells. This was followed with an afternoon of Rock climbing at the Viudes crag near Tarbena, which we had all to ourselves.

For Monday things got a bit more exciting, with a descent of the Barranco del Pas Tancat, near Bolulla. Having only fairly recently discovered this amazing place I was keen to share the experience with others and knew it would be enjoyed by the team. To allow for childcare to work out we ran 2 trips during the day so everyone got to experience the canyon.

Tuesday was to be an adventure day on the mighty Ponoch. We scaled the mountain using the in-situ Via Ferrata to quickly and easily gain height. This activity can be enjoyed by anybody who is fit and has a head for heights. It's a lot of fun (see the photos) and has a fast pace to it.

Wednesday was spent at the nearby crag of Alcalali. This crag typifies Costa Blanca sport climbing, with well bolted, top quality climbs looking out over a stunning valley and within 5 minutes of the car park. Good climbing progression shown by all and Edd giving us a finale on a long and sustained 6c, top effort!

Thursday saw a last minute change of plan as 2 more friends joined the group. Jenni & Francie were keen to have an adventure rather than go rock climbing with the others. So after some discussion and along with Lauren too, 4 of us headed back to the Ponoch Via Ferrata to scale this huge mountain. Smiles all round at the top, well done all.

Friday has arrived all too quickly and the last day of their holiday :-(
So let's make the most of it and get back out on the rock. This time to another fairly newly developed sport climbing venue near Gandia. Ultra sharp rock, closely spaced bolts, sun and shade, and superb views over Orange groves to the mountains beyond, there's a lot going for this place. Everyone excelled, with some impressive leads, especially so from Jules and Charlie. The babies were able to play in the shelter of a nearby cave (it was a very hot day), so enjoyed shade and cooler temps as well as watching some impressive locals on the super steep routes going through the roofs!!

Friday night is music night at Emilios Bar here in Llosa de Camacho, and the fantastic Gas Monkeys were playing tonight. Really good music until way passed my bed time. The early morning flight didn't seem to deter anyone from keeping the barman company until rather later ;-)

Sad to be saying goodbye to these beautiful people once again. Safe travels all, and especially so for Edd & Charlie who set sail for the Falkland Islands in a few days time!

Mark & Kate

Maybe you're looking for an activity week and would like to get off the beaten track. Or want to escape the UK winter and find warm sunshine. If so, get in touch and let us take you on some adventures

#canyoningnearbenidorm

Abseil tuition in the Barranco del Pas Tancat

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Another long abseil in the canyon

#canyoningcostablanca

The afternoon team enjoying the canyon

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Amazing surroundings whilst in the canyon

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Kim introducing the Ponoch Via Ferrata

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Enjoying the mountains on Ponoch Via Ferrata

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Gen cruising up the Ferrata

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Charlie taking a rest in the cave

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Enjoying a peaceful day at the crag. Great climbing on super sharp and grippy Limestone

#rockclimbingnearbenidorm

Viudes crag near Tarbena. Quality routes in a beautiful setting rising above the Almond grove

Via Ferrata double bill - Costa Blanca

26/10/2017

#costablancaactivities

Having fun on the Ponoch via ferrata

Over the weekend we had the pleasure of showing some friends a couple of great Via Ferrata routes in the area.
First up was the fairly newly installed route on Penya del Figuerta, this is near to the village of Relleu.
With an easy approach walk and closely spaced staples, this makes for a fairly relaxing day, at least by Via Ferrata standards that is!
Although only relatively short, this is a route that's very worthwhile. Views over to Puig Campana and Ponoch are wonderful, and the ridge walk that leads to the abseil is memorable too. Not often can we walk along a knife edge ridge and have the security of a big cable to attach to.
We met a couple of others on the route, they were checking it out with a view to take some young children on it, but had decided they'd try elsewhere as this isn't particularly suitable.

With Via Ferrata in our minds we have also made a visit to the mighty Ponoch to check out the route up that, now the cable has been replaced and it's all open again.
This is a brilliant route up such an impressive piece of rock. It was certainly smiles all the way for all of us :-)
The only change to the route is a shiny new cable to clip into rather than a very rusty cable!! From the top some scrambling and a couple of abseils see us back at base and with a great view of a couple of other climbers on the route.

Finishing the day with a dip in the sea at Javea was a lovely way to relax our aching muscles.

Thanks to Kate, Ann, and Becky

Mark

#viaferrataspain

Ponoch Via Ferrata

#costablancaadventure

High on the Penya Figuerta Via Ferrata near Relleu

#beachesofcostablanca

A few minutes from busy coastal resorts, but feels like a different world

Multi-activity holiday Costa Blanca

7/2/2016

Via-ferrata-Costa-Blanca

Ponoch Via Ferrata

It's been a real pleasure to introduce Andzelika & Eugene to the amazing activities on offer here on the Costa Blanca.
The week began with a single pitch sport climbing session on the Echo valley crags followed by an afternoon in the nearby canyon for an introduction to the world of canyoning, Costa Blanca style. This makes for a lovely introduction to the area, has constantly beautiful views, and finishes on a summit looking out to sea, perfect or what.

Our second day out together was somewhat more 'full on' with a descent of the finest canyon in the area, Barranco Del Infierno. The scenery in this place is quite magnificent and has to be seen to be believed. Starting from the mountain village of Fleix we walk on good trails to reach the start. About 10 abseils and 2 via ferrata sections complete the descent amongst ever more inspiring scenery. An epic day always to be remembered.

After such a long day out in the barranco, day 3 was to be a little shorter, with less walking, but no less excitement. The Ponoch mountain lurks behind the seaside resort of Benidorm and is home to a 500m rock face, the largest in the area. On this rock face is installed a Via Ferrata of around 230m and this was todays objective.
It's steep, strenuous, and a heads for heights helps rather a lot with this one. Is it scary, yes. Does the adrenaline pump, yes. Is it loads of fun, yes. Is there a huge sense of achievement at the top, yes.
We have found Via Ferrata to be very popular and widely enjoyed. It's a great workout too.
Once at the top, there's a multi-stage abseil descent for which we used a stacked abseil system for additional safety.

By day 4 muscles were aching a little more so we opted for a relaxing day cragging at Murla crag in the Jalon valley. We ticked 5 routes and spent a fair bit of time enjoying the view of the almond blossom down in the valley bottom.

Day 5 (Thursday) started with just a splash of rain, thankfully not enough to wet the crags. We had a visit to Cala Testos via the canyon descent. Brand new ropes have now been fitted here to aid descent / ascent to the beach. Then it was time for a fun climb. 'Coming Out' a 4+ route on the nearby Morro Falqui crags offers something a little different. Climbing into a cave before emerging through a hole and out onto level ground, brilliant fun.

Day 6 was another cragging day. This time at nearby Toix crags. Here we climbed 8 routes from grade 3 - 5+. This is a really lovely setting above the sea and Mascarat gorge.

Before heading home on Saturday Andzelika & Eugene headed off to the Jalon market to find some bargains and momentos of their visit to the area.

And all too soon, the aeroplane comes to take people home. All we can say is, come back soon.

Thanks for visiting us Andzelika & Eugene, and thanks to Kate, Kim, Ann, and Joe for help and company throughout the week.

Below are a few photos from the week:

Mark

Rock-scrambling-Costa-Blanca

Echo valley scrambling

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Barranco del Infierno

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Barranco del Infierno

Rock-Climbing-Toix-Costa-Blanca

Rock climbing, Toix

Barranco-del-Infierno

Emerging from the Barranco del Infierno

Sport-climbing-holiday

Sport climbing, Murla crag

Stacked-abseil

Stacked abseil descent from Ponoch Via Ferrata