mountainguides.co.uk

Montejaque, in the heart of Andalucia is our base for a week of delightful climbing. Among the many attractions for climbers are the usually excellent weather conditions, the wide range of bolted and traditional climbs available, the relatively cheap cost of living, the dramatic mountain scenery and the abundant wildlife, which includes Vultures and Eagles. The locals and the beer ain't bad either! What a great place for a rock climbing course!

We visit many crags which we often have to ourselves and which are not well known outside Spanish climbing circles. Courses normally start at Benaojan, a typically close-knit Andalucian mountain village close to the historic town of Ronda. A few minutes walk from the village centre, the crag has routes from V. Diff to V Desperate(!) in beautiful surroundings. The crags at Benaojan face in different directions, so you can escape from or to the sunshine, depending on the temperature! Close by are the Alpine-like ridges on El Hacho (the Axe), and a new climbing area which we have developed recently which has a 300m ridge and potential for first ascents of low grade slab routes. Depending upon the group's ability and wishes, this climbing course may use a number of other locations including the spectacular gorge of El Chorro. This location is recommended for beginners and for learning to lead climb confidently. I can recommend this area wholeheartedly.

Rock Climbing Course Content
The maximum ratio is 1:4, enabling us to give individual guidance and attention to everyone. Beginners can progress dramatically in the sunshine and with plenty of fixed gear, whilst those with previous experience can consolidate and prepare for British climbing. The emphasis is on safe practice in belaying, anchors, runner placements, climbing techniques and style, equipment review, abseil retreats, leading skills and mental preparation. If the weather does deteriorate at all; there is much of cultural and historic interest and some fine walking - you won't be bored! The course is suitable for anyone from complete beginner through to those leading at severe standard on real rock. Those who have climbed on walls will find this an ideal course for making the transition to 'real’ climbing.

Dates and Prices: 2010. January 16-23; April 17-24; October 2-9;  £895

Other dates are available by arrangement for groups. The price includes all instruction and use of specialist gear along with self catering accommodation. Free lifts are available from Malaga airport to the climbing areas, local travel, and back again.

JOINING INSTRUCTIONS AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

FLIGHTS: Good value flights are available from regional airports. It would be most helpful to book your flight to arrive no later than midday in Malaga, and to depart no earlier than 3pm from Malaga. This will allow us maximum climbing time. Do not book any flight until we confirm the course as running. In all cases, we need to know the flight number, ETA, and return flight time.

ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD: We will transport you to the accommodation and then to the climbing areas each day. We normally rent good quality self catering accommodation near or in Montejaque – a charming mountain village just a short drive from the crags. A reasonable meal with drinks can be obtained for around £10. Fresh food for lunch is readily available.

INSURANCE: Personal insurance is your responsibility, and I recommend the services offered by the BMC - www.thebmc.co.uk. You should also bring with you a copy of Form E111, plus a photocopy, to enable you to obtain state medical benefits. This is obtainable from the Dept of Social Security.

BOOKING CONDITIONS:
TO BOOK: Contact Highpoint on 01931 713115 or Email

EQUIPMENT: We can provide ropes, quick draws, technical protection and belaying equipment. It is preferable to bring your own harness, helmet, belay device and rock boots, though we can often help out if you do not possess these, and please don't hesitate to call if you want advice. Clothing is very much your personal choice, though we would recommend light gear (T-shirts, tracksuit bottoms, shorts, sweatshirts) for most situations. A light wicking layer and fleece, together with waterproofs should give you protection against anything we're likely to get. Sun protection is important - glasses and cream essential. It's a good idea to bring a drinks bottle, torch, personal first aid kit, wash kit/towel, camera and film, phrasebook and something to read/listen to.

MONEY AND GENERAL INFO: Cash is the most useful method of exchange in inland Spain. Banks in villages have limited opening hours. Restaurants outside main towns do not accept cards/eurocheques or travellers cheques. Spain is heavily into eating meat and fish, but it is possible for vegetarians to survive with a little guile and determination. The fresh fruits and vegetables are excellent.
Most days are spent climbing as much as time and energies allow and we try to travel early or late to avoid wasting precious rock time. Our approach is easy going and informal -
we realise that this is a holiday as well as a course! You'll also find us enthusiastic, and committed to making it a successful week.