Parle Costa Blanca
Earlier this week we had a trip to the seaside. Not just any bit of seaside, but the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' sea cliff area of Sierra de Toix. This is a seriously impressive piece of cliff and when looking down through the hole it seems most improbable for a 6a+ route to venture through such terrain, but it does!!
Parle is a climb I've done a few times now, including fairly recently. Neil too has climbed the route, although it was a bit longer ago. I think for both of us the excitement factor was plenty high enough, such is the drama of the abseil approach.
Once established at the base of the route we were well sheltered from any wind and in full sun, rather hot it was too. I led off up the first pitch, soon remembering what fun it was, Neil quickly followed and led through, cruising the 2nd pitch to the hanging belay. I led through for the final pitch which is slightly longer and pops back out through the entrance hole. Belaying right on the edge is best to enjoy the view down onto the route.
Neil despatched the pitch rapidly and with style. Both back at the top so time for sandwiches and sea views. Whilst enjoying lunch we spotted a very large bird of prey, probably an Eagle, but couldn't get a good enough look to be sure.
For those interested to know more about this route - 'Parle' - it is a 3 pitch sport climb graded 5+ / 6a+ / 6a. Belays are well bolted but the bolts on pitches are spaced, personally I think this is a good thing as it definitely adds to the adventure.
There is an abseil approach, this is approximately 55m and all free-hanging. There are no bolts or belay at the base of the route, so attaching to the abseil rope is to be recommended. With the only way out being to climb, a few self-rescue skills are worth knowing before attempting this route (or any others like it).
For full details on this and many other wonderful mountain and sea cliff adventures in the Costa Blanca area please check out our New Cicerone Guidebook 'Costa Blanca Mountain Adventures' and for more about self-rescue for climbers please don't hesitate to get in touch, we're more than happy to help.
Mark
