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Mountaineering day on Ponoch

19/2/2020

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#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. 
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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
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Mountaineering on Ponoch

22/10/2019

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#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
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Back in the Costa Blanca - 2019 season

12/10/2019

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#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
#guided-walking-costa-blanca
After a hot day in the mountains, this is the perfect welcome home
#walking-holiday-costa-blanca
Montgo dominates over Jesus Pobre
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Ponoch via ferrata

10/11/2018

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#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
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Redovan Via Ferrata - Costa Blanca

24/10/2018

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#redovanviaferrata
Mila enjoying the swing
Earlier in the year we heard there was to be a new Via Ferrata on Costa Blanca. It was proposed to be the biggest and most diverse in the region. We couldn’t wait to check it out. Here’s what we found….
 
A short way south of Alicante city, the mountains of Orihuela rise abruptly from the plain, the region feels more desert like than north of Alicante, drier, more Cacti, and that ‘wild west’ feel about it.
 
We were aiming for the town of Redovan and specifically the piece of rock known as ‘La Pancha’ or ‘The Belly’! With sat nav on we found this with ease, phew.
The Belly is a massive cliff stretching for hundreds of metres in every direction, so it really is hard to miss.
An information board shows all we need to know about our intended route (all in Spanish of course), we have a quick read, gear up and set off for the short approach walk to the initial and more ‘family friendly’ section.
As was expected, installation looks very new. What we didn’t expect, at least on the initial section, was so much diversity, with I think 4 bridges, each one constructed differently to give a new challenge. Throw in some traverses and slight overhangs in an impressive setting and a recipe for fun has been made.
 
At the end of the initial section there is the option to descend along a track back to base, or continue to the top of the big cliff. For us there was no option, we were continuing, and what a lot of fun it was going to be.
 
This section was so much steeper and sustained, our arms soon began to scream. Thankfully there are resting places en-route. Small platforms have been built into the cliff and these make excellent lookouts and places to catch your breath!
Protruding from the cliff about 100m up is a huge hinge, this can be used as a swing to cross a section of the route. There is an alternative route passed this too, for those not so keen on the ‘airtime’. Mila was kind enough to pose for some photos whilst on the hinge. Beyond this is an enclosed ladder section that is climbed with your back against the rock, so yes imagine the view.
 
A final traverse brings us to the big bridge, all 45m of it, suspended across the void and wow does it sway.
 
Considering how much we ascended, the descent walk is pleasantly easy and in well under 1 hour we are back at the car, tired but elated after a brilliant afternoon.
 
Whilst the initial section, which can be enjoyed in it’s own right, makes for a great introduction to Via Ferrata. We don’t recommended the upper section for beginners to the sport, but if you’ve tried others in the area and are looking for more, look no further.
 
If you’d like a guide, help with logistics, help with equipment, please get in touch, we’d be happy to help.
 
Thanks to Mila for joining me on this adventure and thanks all for reading.
 
Mark

#rockclimbingguidecostablanca
On the final traverse to the big bridge!
#viaferratainspain
Arriving at a resting platform
#costablancaviaferrata
On the big bridge
#newviaferrataredovan
The main wall at Redovan
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Via Ferrata double bill - Costa Blanca

26/10/2017

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#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
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Multi-activity holiday: Costa Blanca

6/1/2016

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Via-ferrata-costa-blanca
For a week Helen, Ian, and Rowan have been here with us on the Costa Blanca enjoying warm sunshine, warm seas, hot rock climbing, and so much more. Yesterday morning they left early to return to the UK. Hope you all had a great time and to see you again soon.

Day one was an afternoon climbing season at the local Toix crags, just to get a feel for Spanish Limestone and what it has to offer. The weather was typically warm and sunny.

Day two we split into 2 halves. A morning on Ponoch completing a long Via Ferrata on this amazing mountain. This is a great way to experience a huge rock face without the need for advanced climbing abilities, so suitable for a wide range of people. There are 2 abseils to get back down again (and lots of scrambling) and this helps keep this as a half day activity.
After lunch we headed to the nearby Echo Valley crags for more single pitch Limestone heaven. Helen led 4 routes back to back and was clearly feeling in tune with the rock.

For day three we headed out as a group of 5 (Helen, Ian, Rowan, Kate, and me), ok, 6 including Don, and went to the hidden beach of Cala Testos. To access this beach involves scrambling down a canyon for about 45 minutes. Some sections are tricky and have fixed ropes in place, but wow this place is well worth visiting.
Helen & Kate enjoyed a dip in the sea, Ian was a bit more hardcore and swam around 2km and all the way to a completely different beach. Rowan checked out the bouldering and Don relaxed in the sun. All in all a rather pleasant morning.
Oh, and Don got to experience his first abseil, not sure it's his thing!
We finished the day with a short climb on the nearby crag of Morro Falqui. A very unconventional route called 'Coming out' which climbs into a cave with the climber then emerging through a hole in the Limestone pavement, an absolutely awesome route.

Day four being new years day we had another beach based day. This time for some bouldering at the Les Rotes venue near Denia. The super rough Sandstone on the beach is really great for building technique and strength. The beach is sandy here too and most landings are good.
After lunch me & Helen climbed a multi-pitch route at Toix, whilst the others had a chilled time back at the villa.

Day five saw us heading to the depths of a canyon. Barranco de Paret on the Sierra de Bernia has loads of abseils, the longest being 40m, great scrambling and views to match. This kept us busy until early afternoon. A really nice thing about many canyons here is their ease of access, making them doable during just a morning or afternoon.
We then spent the afternoon back at the Echo Valley crags for a handful more routes, with Rowan leading most things at Echo 1.5

Day six and we're back at Toix for more single pitch cragging in the sunshine. Helen climbed 8 routes up to 6a and Rowan led 5 routes making for a busy day for both. Quite a few others were at the crag making the most of the great weather again today.

Day seven took us to the beautiful Jalon valley and Murla crag. Final activity day and a day of pushing the limits a little more. Helen climbing 8 routes yet again, including 2 leads, and Rowan leading 6 routes including 4 x 6a's - nice one.
The Jalon valley is still a favourite of mine, and sitting at this crag looking out over the valley it's so easy to see why, a stunning place.
Homeward bound tomorrow, we hope to see you all again before too long.

Mark & Kate

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Stacked-abseil
Rock-climbing-costa-blanca
Bouldering-costa-blanca
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Multi-activity, Costa Blanca

25/12/2015

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Bernia-ridge-Costa-Blanca
Bernia ridge
Two years ago we welcomed Edd to Spain for a fairly last minute introductory rock climbing holiday. Each day we climbed a lot and generally had loads of fun. Last December Edd was back, this time with his sisters and friends. Needless to say we were delighted by this and much fun was had. The theme was still rock climbing, but canyoning and scrambling were enjoyed too.
This December the team were back for more. All now climbing really well and leading trad routes back in the UK, I knew the itinerary was going to need to be pretty special so got to work on making plans for great mountain adventures.

Day 1: Arriving around lunchtime, there wasn't much time for climbing, but we did squeeze in a visit to the local Toix crags and this proved to be a perfect warm up for the holiday.

Day 2: We visited Font d'Axia crags in the Jalon valley area. A lovely quiet crag with loads of great routes from 4 - 7a, so a good range. Everyone climbed loads despite the heat of the sun wilting us at times. And even the 7a saw an attempt!
During the day we looked at multi-pitch climbing skills too, in preparation for a sea cliff adventure tomorrow. Everyone led climbs today and much improvement seen by all. Awesome day!

Day 3: A serious undertaking today, we were heading to the Morro Falqui sea cliffs near Teulada. Our sights set on the 6 pitch 'Sonjannika' which climbs the full length of this impressive cliff. A canyon descent starts the day, then a short scramble to reach the base of the route. With 6 of us on the route, careful time management was crucial for safety and success, thankfully everyone worked hard to keep the day flowing smoothly. I climbed with Jules who was fab company all day. We all met up on the big ledge above pitch 4, here we enjoyed lunch overlooking the sea :-)
As with many brilliant routes, the best is saved until last, and pitch 6 doesn't disappoint. Long and with several tricky sections and a traverse to finish the pitch off, this is excellent in every way. There were a fair few tentative moments on that final traverse, but everyone kept their cool and climbed it well, often finishing to applause from those already at the top. A big and awesome day.

Day 4: An easier day today, with a visit to Jalon market during the morning to buy some Christmas gifts to take back home. During the afternoon we headed for the beach at Les Rotes. Here we swam in the warm sea and enjoyed some beach bouldering. A nice restful day.

Day 5: Another 'full-on' day. We began with a long Via Ferrata on Ponoch. This brought many smiles and much laughter all round. The weather wasn't being so kind today though, with cloud swirling around us for much of the ascent, although this did add to the atmosphere. The clouds cleared briefly when we were at the top and this provided us with big views of the mountain and surroundings. A multi-stage abseil took us easily back to the base.
During the afternoon we went cragging in the nearby Echo valley. With everyone going so well, we almost climbed the whole crag out during our fairly short visit, top effort.

Day 6: Bernia ridge traverse - big day out! An early-ish start for this one saw us walking in before the sun had warmed the air, this allowed a speedy start. We geared up at the 'Forat' then began our ascent to the ridge. A few nerves amongst the team today, especially so once the scale and location start to register! Once on the ridge we were in the sun and pleasantly warm. Movement along the crest soon came naturally to all, and the exposure soon a normal part of the day. Still, concentration levels stayed very high throughout for everyone, big space below the feet tends to have that effect!
We cruised the ridge, the abseils, the climbing section, and then to the descent. Scree run fun, why not? This is a super rapid way to loose height on the northern side of the ridge. Within only about 50m everyone was looking comfortable with the terrain and much laughter could be heard, for this is brilliant fun.
We made it back to base in time for coffees, cake, and beer at the Bernia restaurant. Another awesome day.

Day 7: Yesterday had been a long mountaineering day, and muscles ached a little this morning. So our plan to go cragging to Gandia fit the bill perfectly. The sun was out again, the rock warm, the routes fantastic. Everyone climbed the worm hole route of 'Pequeno Saltemontes' which is so much fun, and made even more so if your name is Lauren or Edd ;-)
This very much became a day of consolidating leading skills for most, with both Jules & Nicola really excelling and ticking loads of routes on the lead. We almost had to drag ourselves away at the end of the day, still so much to do here.

Day 8: Last day for the team and a trip to Aventador crag. This is home to a short and very steep Via Ferrata and that's what we started with. The weather was overcast and cold when we arrived, but thankfully this soon changed to blue skies and sunshine :-)
Jules enjoyed the Via Ferrata so much she went up it again, taking Kate with her. Nice one.
A fine selection of routes were climbed on the main crag, a little multi-pitch action too, and a quality 6a lead for Lauren. Nicola & Edd spent time placing trad gear to help plug the gaps between the bolts. This is a good way to become proficient at this and carries less risk, win win.

Where did the time go, why do you have to go, we'll miss you all so much

Big thanks to: Edd, Lauren, Jules, Nicola, and Richard - an absolute pleasure

Multi-pitch-climbing-Spain
Sonjannika sea cliff
Multi-pitch-climbing-Spain
Top of Sonjannika
Via-ferrata-Costa-Blanca
Ponoch Via Ferrata
Via-ferrata-Costa-Blanca
Ponoch Via Ferrata
Learn-to-lead-climb-outdoors
First outdoor lead route at Echo valley
Bernia-ridge
Bernia ridge
Via-ferrata-Aventador-Costa-Blanca
Aventador
Rock-climbing-course-Spain
Sport climbing skills
Rock-climbing-skills-Costa-Blanca
Multi-pitch skills
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Scrambling & mountain adventures - Costa Blanca

15/12/2015

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Puig-Campana-Costa-Blanca-rock-climbing
More busy times here on the Costa Blanca and more clear blues skies to enjoy.

Back on Monday 7th December Kim was guiding Joe & Sang on the amazing Magical Mystery Tour on the Toix sea cliffs. This all starts with a dramatic 40m abseil into the crag and follows with 5 pitches of increasing brilliant climbing. Joe & Sang enjoyed this so much, they have already requested to do it again in February, great news.

On the same day we welcomed Dave from Fresh Air Learning. Dave was here to sample the fine scrambling on offer nearby. We began with a short barranco ascent in the Echo valley. This initially follows a dry river bed and finishes on a nearby summit with amazing views all the way out to sea.
The following day me & Dave traversed the Toix ridge. After an initial climb, this becomes a knife edged arete that requires a steady approach. Dave breezed across this and soon we were once more on a summit offering fine sea & mountain views.
By Wednesday the weather was a little more uncertain and we changed plans to fit with this. Going to the nearby Olta mountain we found a fine scrambling route towards the plateau, from where we could join the path over to the summit. As we descended a little rain also descended!!! Thankfully not very much and we all stayed pretty dry, phew!
Home time for Dave on Thursday, hope to see you out here again soon.

On Saturday we met up with a local climber, Miguel. We went North to a Via Ferrata near Gandia, Las Marujes. This turned out to be brilliant and we discovered a nicely bolted crag on our return walk, bonus.
The Via Ferrata begins with a Tibetan bridge over a ravine, then a long and steep climb to the top of the main crag, followed by a shorter climb to the summit. A well maintained track leads back to the parking area in Tavernes.

Sunday was a big mountain day. Aristotle on the mighty Puig Campana. 10 pitches of traditional climbing followed by 3 abseils to descend, so quite a day.
The climb is split into 2 distinct sections (lower & upper) and it's possible to escape at the top of pitch 5. The lower section is quite difficult to route find, but does contain some fine climbing. But it's the upper section where the main fun lies. Pitch 6 is about VS4b and above this the whole route follows an ever narrowing arete, culminating in pinnacles at the top. With a few hundred metres of fresh air below, this is a mighty fine place to be, mega exposure!
The descend is initially by abseil, about 10m into a notch, then about 35-40m from new looking bolts (2015) towards the barranco, and finally about another 30m from old pegs (these are now looking pretty knackered)! Once in the barranco a lot of down-scrambling brings you to the base of the mountain just next to where Epsilon Central starts.

Monday saw us enjoy another big multi-pitch route. This time on the nearby and iconic El Penon de Ifach. There are many climbs on the huge rock, and most are very hard. We choose one of the easier lines, a VS / 5+ known as Via Valencianos. 8 pitches including the notorious 'slippery corner'. After the initial couple of pitches we arrived at the slippery corner, this requires basic aid climbing due to the intense polish the rock now has, but this is fairly straightforward to do. Above here the route really starts to shine, the upper slab is around 70m high and contains brilliant climbing in an increasingly exposed setting, the top belay is right on the edge of an arete giving fines views back down to Calpe. 3 more pitches complete the route and end very near the summit.

All of these routes and many more can be included into a climbing / scrambling / multi-activity package. Please get in touch and we'll make the arrangements.

Big thanks to Kate, Kim, Miguel, Dave, Joe, and Sang for making this last couple of weeks so great.

A few photos below showing some of the places we got to. 

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Rock-climbing-Spain
Rock-climbing-Penon-Calpe
Abseiling-Costa-Blanca
Rock-scrambling-Costa-Blanca
Via-ferrata-Las-Marujes-Costa-Blanca
Via-Ferrata-Costa-Blanca
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Rock climbing & Mountaineering adventures in Spain

10/11/2015

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Via-ferrata-Costa-Blanca
For the winter months we are basing ourselves in the Costa Blanca region of Spain. Here we aim to provide guided walking, rock climbing, canyoning, via ferrata, and multi-activity holidays.
Even though we know the area very well already, there's always more to explore, so we're here early to spend time doing just that.
Already 4 more walking routes done in the lovely Jalon region, and more on the way. Kate is going to write about these soon. The focus of this post is Rock climbing & mountaineering.

A starter day at Alcalali crag and 9 routes ticked was all a wake up call for arms and fingers. Thanks to Juliette for the motivation to keep going. This lead to a day at Aventador in Northern Costa Blanca. There's a Via Ferrata here so we started with an ascent of that. It proved to be good fun and quite challenging due to the rungs being so far apart and a relentless steepness. We were able to descend easily from the top via a small path, so no rope required.
We continued the day with 5 climbs at the crag, so a busy day.

Then yesterday we drove South to Forada in the Alicante region. This crag forms a crest of perfect rock at almost 1000m above sea level. We had the whole place to ourselves all day, the only sounds we heard were ourselves chatting and the occasionally Bumble Bee busying itself. This was a new venue for us and it was well worth the visit for every route was excellent and the views outstanding. We managed 10 routes here.

And for today, an entirely different proposition. This was mountaineering rather than climbing. We firstly ascended the Via Ferrata on the mighty Ponoch (the crag is around 500m high so quite Alpine in scale), this gained us height in order to begin the adventure proper. A grade 5 rock scramble to the summit of the mountain.
With only a vague description and no proper too of the route, there was a lot of unknowns here!
We soon established ourselves on the route and were able to link areas together at an amenable grade, finding the occasional piece of fixed gear along the way. Not quite knowing what lay ahead we pressed on at a very rapid rate, this brought us to the top of the scramble very quickly indeed. We now could realise the scale of the summit plateau of Ponoch! That's going to be a tough walk I told myself, but the views were absolutely mind blowing, so who cares about a bit of leg work out.

We blasted up to the summit in time for lunch, having now ascended a 230m Via Ferrata and around 300m of scrambling along with a rapid 30+ mins walk to the top. To say we were tired would be an understatement, but very happy indeed.

The return to the valley was a pleasant walk on good and well marked paths the whole way, a delight.

Thanks so much to Juliette for joining me on all of these adventures and providing masses of enthusiasm the whole time. Thanks too to Kate for joining us at Forada and on the walks and to Kim & Jill for joining on the walks.

Mark

Photos from top to bottom are:
1) Juliette on the Ponoch Via Ferrata;
2) Rock climbing at Forada, Alicante region;
3) Sunset at Forada;
4) The mighty Ponoch;
5) Near the summit of Ponoch looking towards the Pleasure Domes;
6) Kate, Kim, and Jill enjoying a walk around the Guadalest reservoir

​
Rock-climbing-Forada
Forada-crag
Ponoch, Costa-Blanca
Guided-walking-Costa-Blanca
Guided-walking-Guadalest
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