Thursday, July 28, 2016

rock climbing in France

Just back from some nice rock climbing in France. Marieke and I checked out some new areas around Briancon and La Grave.

 

Really nice campground in Villar d'Arene below the col du Lautaret. 10 minutes walk to the crag. Steep granite/gneiss routes, we climbed cool routes between 5c and 6b.







Above La Grave there is a south face granite climbing crack as well. Long routes up to 7a, well bolted, and there was nobody!!! The crag is called Les Ayes, if you are in La Grave you can buy the topo in the outdoor shop opposite of the cable car station. Actually it is possible to drive by car from Grenoble to La Grave. After the landslide above lac cambon they built an alternative route on the other side of the lake. You don't find a lot of info on the www but the route is open for cars (not for bigger trucks or motor homes!).






Also the new climbing crags at Casse del Prelles above Argentiere les Besses is really nice. Different sectors with different kind of routes (quartzite and lime stone). Well bolted, all the routes are in the new guide book "Briancon climbing" - must have if you stay in the area!