Sonjannika - Sea cliffs of Costa Blanca
After a couple of days back on the Toix cliffs, include an ascent of the fine route of Cilber and the Ridge following on from this. We were back in search of more and a change of scene.
Along with Kate, Leanne, Kim, and Jenny, we set off for the Moraig sea cliffs just a short drive from Calpe. Here lie a handful of single pitch routes and a few multi-pitch offerings. With the team we had, our ideal day consisted of a mid-grade multi-pitch climb and Sonjannika - a 6 pitch route of around 170 metres - fit the bill perfectly. And all above a glistening sea. For a detailed description and topo check out our Cicerone guidebook here.
I climbed with Kate & Leanne, whilst Kim & Jenny stayed hot on our heels all the way to the top.
Climbing as a group of 3 takes more planning than when there's just 2 people and alternate leading is happening. So I well and truly had my 'work' hat on to keep on top of the rope-work and stance management side of things, allowing Kate & Leanne to enjoy the route to the full, whilst still being very involved in the stance logistics and safety.
To arrive at the base of Sonjannika requires a canyon descent, so the adventure begins well before the climbing does. For those with plenty time to spare, a beautiful beach lies at the bottom of the canyon, well worth a visit before or after the climb, or as a trip out in its own right.
Once on the climb, every pitch provides plenty of interest and keeps the climber focused all the time. There are bolts for protection, but thankfully these have been relatively sparingly placed, so it's not always an easy clip-up climb, in fact far from it.
A cave belay is possibly the highlight (or maybe stepping out of it with 100 metres of air between you and the sea), but in truth, it's hard to pin down the best bit, it's all so good. The setting above the sea, the super sharp Limestone, the technical moves, the rock quality, the long pitches, all just brilliant.
For more about what we can offer in Spain check out our Spain Activity pages here