Sunshine at last

By Alan Kimber on 07/12/2012

Anyone interested in sports climbing, might consider Sicily. A brand new guide book is out and covers the very popular area around San Vito lo Capo. Don’t bother though if your tastes are long trad routes! There are some in this area, but according to a report from one team, they require considerable ‘gardening’. Another Sicily wide guide is also on the shelves and that could reveal many more options. My comments should not be taken too seriously, as this is my first short and very limited visit.

Most of the sports routes are very easy to access and often close to a road or track. The bolts are very closely spaced as well, offering mostly stress free climbing.

This camp site looks very good and good climbing from 2c upwards is close by. The grades are varied and offer plenty around 5 – 6 – 7, as well as a few even lower, so this is not just an area for hard sports routes. Also, plenty of scope for new routes by all accounts. A long 70m rope would be useful and a max of around 15 quick draws.

Plenty of exotic plants close to the climbing.

Bring your fishing tackle if you need a change of activity, or do not want to eat out every day!

Back home on 14th December, ready for another winter season, which appears to have started with a bang. Anyone fancy some ice climbing? Contact my good friend and work colleague, Spike Sellers. He is looking after base camp as Sue and I attempt to top up the tan lines, without much success! See you soon folks.

Not difficult to find the exact start to the climbs!