For those who enjoy hanging off a cliff face, the world is an endless playground of
vertical challenges. From towering limestone cliffs to otherworldly desert formations,
our planet offers a stunning array of rock climbing destinations to suit every style and
skill level.
Grab your chalk bag and climbing shoes as we explore 25 of the most epic
international spots where you can test your mettle against gravity.
Yosemite National Park, USA
The birthplace of modern rock climbing, Yosemite’s granite walls are the stuff of
legend. You’ll be awestruck by the sheer magnitude of El Capitan and Half Dome.
From single-pitch cragging to epic big wall climbs, Yosemite offers something for
every climber. Have you ever dreamed of following in the footsteps of climbing
pioneers?
Kalymnos, Greece
This Greek island is a sport climber’s paradise, with hundreds of limestone routes
overlooking the azure Aegean Sea. You’ll love the relaxed vibe, easy access to
crags, and the chance to cool off with a post-climb swim.
Don’t miss the famous Grande Grotta with its stalactite-filled roof. Who knew climbing could feel like a beach holiday?
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Squamish, Canada
Nestled between mountains and sea, Squamish offers world-class granite climbing
just an hour from Vancouver. You’ll be spoiled for choice with options ranging from
bouldering to multi-pitch trad routes.
The Chief, a massive granite monolith, is the crown jewel of Squamish climbing. Ready to test your crack climbing skills?
Railay Beach, Thailand
With its stunning limestone cliffs rising directly from turquoise waters, Railay is as
much a visual feast as a climbing destination. You’ll find routes for all levels, from
beginner-friendly walls to challenging deep-water solos.
After a day of climbing, unwind with a Thai massage on the beach. Can you imagine a more perfect blend of adventure and relaxation?
Frankenjura, Germany
The birthplace of sport climbing, Frankenjura boasts over 10,000 routes spread
across a beautiful forested landscape. You’ll be challenged by the region’s
characteristic pockets and crimps.
Don’t forget to sample the local beer after a hard day’s climbing – you’ve earned it!
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Rocklands, South Africa
A bouldering mecca, Rocklands offers thousands of problems on striking orange
sandstone. You’ll be captivated by the otherworldly landscape of the Cederberg
Mountains.
The best time to visit is during the South African winter (June to August), when temperatures are perfect for climbing.
El Chorro, Spain
Located in sunny Andalusia, El Chorro is famous for its limestone cliffs and the hair-
raising Caminito del Rey walkway. You’ll find a wide range of sports routes for all
levels, with many sectors enjoying all-day sun – perfect for winter climbing trips.
Joshua Tree National Park, USA
With its distinctive desert landscape and granite formations, J-Tree offers a unique
climbing experience. You’ll love the mix of trad, sport, and bouldering options.
Thesurreal scenery and starry nights make for an unforgettable camping experience.
Ever wondered what it’s like to climb on the moon? This might be the closest you’ll
get!
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Fontainebleau, France
Just a stone’s throw from Paris, ‘Font’ is hallowed ground for boulderers. You’ll be
challenged by the technical, slopey problems on the forest’s famous sandstone
blocks.
Don’t forget to pack your brush – keeping the rock clean is part of the ‘Font’ ethic. Ready to test yourself against problems set by climbing legends?
Tonsai, Thailand
Sister Beach to Railay, Tonsai offers a more laid-back vibe and some of the best
climbing in Thailand. You’ll find everything from easy slabs to wildly overhanging
routes.
The deep water solo opportunities are not to be missed – there’s nothing
quite like climbing with the sea as your crashpad!
Siurana, Spain
Perched atop a cliff in Catalonia, Siurana is a sport climber’s dream. You’ll be
challenged by technical routes on pristine limestone.
The beautiful medieval village and surrounding olive groves add to the charm. Can you resist the call of some of the world’s most famous 9a+ routes?
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Red River Gorge, USA
Known for its overhanging sandstone cliffs and concentration of hard sport routes,
the ‘Red’ is a must-visit for any serious climber. You’ll love the variety of climbing
styles and the beautiful Kentucky forests.
Don’t miss the chance to sample the local delicacy – Miguel’s Pizza is legendary among climbers!
Ceuse, France
Often dubbed the world’s best sport climbing crag, Ceuse’s blue-streaked limestone
walls are a sight to behold. You’ll earn your climbs with a steep 45-minute hike, but
the quality of the routes makes it all worthwhile.
Have you ever climbed on rock so good it feels like it was sculpted for climbers?
Hampi, India
This bouldering paradise is set amidst the ruins of an ancient city. You’ll be amazed
by the endless granite boulders scattered across a surreal landscape.
The unique culture and low cost of living make Hampi a favorite for long-term climbing trips. Ready for a climbing adventure that feels like time travel?
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Verdon Gorge, France
Often called Europe’s Grand Canyon, Verdon offers some of the most spectacular
multi-pitch routes in the world. You’ll be awed by the sheer limestone walls rising
above the turquoise river.
Many routes require rappelling in from the top – not for the faint of heart! Can you imagine a more dramatic setting for a climbing adventure?
Yangshuo, China
Set amongst the karst peaks of Guangxi province, Yangshuo offers a unique cultural
experience alongside world-class climbing. You’ll find a wide range of sports routes
on limestone karsts that seem to defy gravity.
Don’t miss the chance to cool off with a bamboo raft ride down the Li River after a day of climbing.
Margalef, Spain
This Catalonian climbing mecca is known for its compact conglomerate rock riddled
with pockets. You’ll find thousands of routes across a wide range of grades, with
many sectors enjoying all-day sun.
The local olive oil is almost as good as the climbing – almost!
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Kalymnos, Greece
This Greek island has become synonymous with world-class sports climbing. You’ll
be spoiled for choice with hundreds of well-bolted routes on stellar limestone.
The relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and delicious Greek food make it a perfect
climbing holiday destination. Who says you can’t combine a beach vacation with a climbing trip?
Bishop, USA
A bouldering paradise in the Eastern Sierra, Bishop offers a lifetime’s worth of
problems on unique volcanic tablelands and granite boulders. You’ll love the diversity
of climbing styles and the stunning mountain scenery.
With hot springs nearby, you’ve got the perfect post-climb recovery option. Ready to test yourself against some of the most famous boulder problems in the world?
Finale Ligure, Italy
Combining Mediterranean charm with excellent limestone climbing, Finale is a gem
of the Italian Riviera. You’ll find a huge variety of sports routes just minutes from
beautiful beaches.
The historic town and delicious Ligurian cuisine add to the appeal. Can you think of a better way to refuel after a hard day’s climbing than with authentic Italian pasta?
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Ton Sai, Thailand
Another Thai climbing paradise, Ton Sai offers a perfect mix of challenging routes
and laid-back beach vibes. You’ll find everything from easy slabs to wildly
overhanging tufas.
The deep water soloing opportunities are not to be missed – there’s nothing quite like climbing with the Andaman Sea as your crash pad!
Grampians, Australia
Known to locals as ‘the Gramps,’ this national park in Victoria offers world-class
bouldering and trad climbing. You’ll be amazed by the quality of the sandstone and
the beautiful bush setting.
Keep an eye out for kangaroos and wallabies as you hike between boulders!
Rodellar, Spain
Hidden away in a stunning limestone gorge, Rodellar is famous for its tufa-rich caves
and overhanging walls. You’ll find hundreds of high-quality sports routes, many
offering endurance climbing at its finest.
The crystal-clear pools of the Rio Mascún provide a perfect place to cool off after a day on the rock.
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Acadia National Park, USA
Offering a unique blend of sea cliffs and mountain climbing, Acadia is a traditional
climber’s playground. You’ll love the variety of rock types and the stunning coastal
scenery.
After your climb, cool off with a dip in the Atlantic – if you’re brave enough to handle the chilly Maine waters!
El Potrero Chico, Mexico
El Potrero Chico, Mexico
Known for its multi-pitch sports routes on massive limestone walls, El Potrero Chico
is a climber’s dream. You’ll be amazed by the opportunity to climb 20+ pitch routes
that you can walk off from.
The laid-back Mexican vibe and affordable tacos make it a popular winter destination for North American climbers.
Get Ready for Your Next Vertical Adventure
From the sun-baked deserts of Joshua Tree to the lush valleys of Yangshuo, from
the coastal cliffs of Kalymnos to the alpine walls of the Dolomites, the world is full of
incredible climbing destinations waiting to be explored.
Each of these locations offers not just world-class climbing, but also a chance to
immerse yourself in unique landscapes and cultures.
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