CLIMBING IN ANDORRA

For those whose see vertical challenges as a way of life, Andorra offers highly interesting attractions. There is a large selection of climbing areas where the average height of the land means climbing can be enjoyed in the height of summer when it can be difficult to do in other locations. In this sense, thanks to their altitude, orientation and location in forests, the Agulles d’Engolasters and other sectors offer pleasant opportunities at the toughest hours of the day. In turn, climbing and cold are no obstacle in winter: the sunshine at some faces such as the Roc del Solar allow climbing on sunny days. The vias ferratas have a moderate difficulty level, meaning climbers of all levels can use them and not just elite athletes. There are now via combinations with set or different lengths. The marvellous quality of the granite, holding, texture, feel, solidity and other types of rock in the country offer pleasant sensations for climbers. Andorra presently has a growing number of climbing walls which help maintain climbing activity throughout the year, whatever the weather. 9 climbing areas and over 200 vias: Solà d’Enclar: the place with the most climbing routes in Andorra. Located 1,100 metres high. Climbing can be enjoyed year-round. There are five climbing sectors with a total of 65 set-length vias and 7 long routes. La Piràmide: a major climbing sector. This is a major face running up to 150 metres and running right to left. There is a wide variety of climbing here – face, dihedral, crack and all with excellent granite. Located at an average 1,200 metres, it gets the sun from the morning and offers climbing practically year-round. There are 16 set-length vias and 13 with three to seven different lengths. Llastra de l’Obac: a vertical face facing North, surrounded by abundant plant life. Driest days are best to find good holding conditions. There are only 3 vias but it is a good choice for climbing on hot summer days. Boulder de Coll Jovell: small 6-18 metre high faces. Located 1,620 metres high facing northwest on the Col Jovell path. It is formed by 5 sectors and a total 41 vias. They are short routes but of all types, with granite and rock. Agulles d’Engolasters: These needles run 15 to 30 metres high. Located 1,740 metres high facing northwest. There are 17 difficult vias and a mountain setting with marvellous views out over the valley of Andorra. Sant Antoni de la Grella: This area is next to the Valira del Nord River at 1,150 metres high. There are two climbing sectors with a total of 18 vias. Canillo-Climbing: located 1,550 metres high in a very pretty setting with a waterfall in the middle of the wall. There are 12 vias. Arcalís: This small sector is formed by two sheets with a maximum 25 metre height. Located in a magnificent high mountain setting almost 2,350 metres high, there are 4 climbing routes. In addition, there is the Balma wall which is formed by different spurs, tracts and sheets. Pic de Ríbuls: located almost at the bottom of the Pessons cirque, this peak undoubtedly offers a high mountain setting. The climb is mainly in crack and dihedral, with 4 climbing routes.