Thursday 2 February 2012

Back to the Blanca

A very easy journey and we were back where it all began (Christmas 1987) - the Costa Blanca. It is so easy to forget what a glorious part of the world this is, a stunning climate, superb scenery and of course, great climbing.
The flight down only took 2 hrs 8 minutes (tail-wind) and the car cost the princely sum of £69 for two weeks hire. After a couple of weeks under the grey grizzly skies of the UK, the warm sunshine and blue skies were a tonic (it was worth the cost of the fare just to sit in the sun according to DG - who hasn't climbed outdoors since the end of September!).

Left: Chris on Neu ne Marc (5) Guadalest

We kicked of with a couple of gentle days climbing at Echo and Guadalest - the dozen routes were did were easy (up to 6a) but so much better than just another day down the climbing wall!

Update: Thursday saw a sprinkling of snow on the highest mountains and Friday night the puddles froze around the pad! Still sunny enough to climb on sheltered crags though.

Right: Almond blossom and snow

4 comments:

Mike Reed said...

Hi Chris,
I want a job with you guys!!
First time I've looked at your blog and thanks for the writing. I used to write for Climber when Bernard was editing, Scottish new routes etc... I'd love to write again about what floats my boat.. You luck chap!

Off to Spain, probably solo 18 feb for a week or so, not sure where would be best, Blanc and orangehouse, or Barca and siurana refugio? Any suggestions. I need some sun!
Cheers
Mike Reed

Chris Craggs said...

Weather-wise it has to be the Blanca. There is always somewhere to get something done.

Iain Noble said...

Hi Chris,

Who did you hire the car from,as it is very cheap.

Iain Noble (UKC)

Chris Craggs said...

Auto Europe - they use other companies for the actual cars but have always been pretty good with us.

Chris

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