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Gastlosen Rock Climbing

Climbing Area Map

Areas in Gastlosen

Gastlosen North Face 0 / 3 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 3

Gastlosen South Face 0 / 8 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 8

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Elevation:	6,000 ft	1,829 m
GPS:	46.5571, 7.2475 Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views:	10,037 total · 62/month
Shared By:	Dan Flynn on Oct 6, 2011 · Updates
Admins:	Mark P., James H, Dan Flynn Page Updates (admin only)

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Description

A majestic dinosaur fin of rock dividing cantons of Fribourg and Bern. This rugged-looking range ("without guests") is home to some great sportaneering, long adventurous routes which happen to be well-protected by bolts. At around 1800 m and with most of the climbing on the SE-facing east side of the range, it seems to stay warm while offering views glaciers on the Bernese Oberland.

The long range has many peaks, many faces, and several access points. Planning ahead for what routes to aim for is essential. The best guide book, Gastlosen.ch, divides the range into zones, with areas defined by individual peaks within these zones, and then even sub-areas within that. Plaisir West offeres a simplified version of the topography and would be adequate for a short trip.

The rock is limestone, with long sections of thin, angular tufas shaped by rain. Very cool texture. Pockets, spine-shivvering slabs, and steep blocky sections all make appearances.

Getting There

It would be tough to make a visit without a car. Drive to the town of Jaun, at the north end of the range. Just east of the town is the village of Kappelboden with two roads leading south. One bends to the west for the less-popular NW side of the range (signs to Chalet du Soldat), the other to the east for the SE side (sign to skilift).

Car camping is easy at the parking spots marked on the map. At the Oberi Bire spot (parking III) at least there is even running water via a cow trough.