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Favorite Dec & Jan warm weather international climbing

Original Post
d powledge · · Montana · Joined May 2009 · Points: 21

Favorite Dec & Jan warm weather international climbing destinations

Wondering what people's favorites are. Thinking relaxed, low commitment sport & traditional options. Multipitch would be a bonus. Working on a two week timeframe. While climbing is definitely a big part of the trip, also looking for some fun and relaxed culture.

Particular interest in South American and European options, but open to anything.

Thanks!

Jon H · · PC, UT · Joined Nov 2009 · Points: 118

El Potrero Chico, but bring a spare sweater.

End of thread.

Vaughn Fetzer · · Durango, CO · Joined Apr 2011 · Points: 70

Vinales, in Cuba.

Ryan Williams · · London (sort of) · Joined May 2009 · Points: 1,245

You do realise that all of Europe is farther from the equator than most of the US? There are plenty of places around here to find winter sun, but good weather is far from guaranteed.

Tenerife is not a bad option - however, last time I went there to get some winter sun we got snowed on!

Pat Cunnane · · South Lake Tahoe, CA · Joined Feb 2012 · Points: 15

Frey near Bariloche, Argentina and Cochamo Valley near Puerto Montt in Chile are awesome.

kenr · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Oct 2010 · Points: 16,608
Ryan Williams wrote:You do realise that all of Europe is farther from the equator than most of the US?
Yes that's a good point, that most of Europe is farther N, so not an obvious winter rock destination.

So the key to making Europe work is to combine S latitude with S-facing rock with seacoast temperature moderation:

  • El Chorro in southern Spain is a frequent favorite of English-speaking climbers. Check on UKClimbing Forum for ideas and partners.
  • Sardegna: the island of Sardinia has great off-season hotel and car-rental deals -- climbing highly regarded by German visitors.
  • Sicily: some new sport areas opening up - (might be an English-language guidebook out already?)
  • Kalymnos: remote Greek island with remarkable rock.

?? southeast coast of France has lots of S-facing crags which might deliver good climbing days in winter. Around Marseille, Toulon, Nice (also consider visiting nearby Finale Ligure a bit farther N)
. (good choice for the option of also great skiing a few days)
But in keeping with Ryan's warning ... it's about the same latitude as New York City, so bring your down jacket, balaclava, fingerless gloves - if daring this area.
Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

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