Multi-pitch climbing and night at the cliff (Verdon)
Duration : 2 days
France, Southern Alps, Provence
Level : from 5c leading
from 1 to 2 persons
Infos & BookingDescription
I offer climbers who want to learn "big wall" techniques, or simply enrich their climbing experience, outings combining multi-pitch climbing and overnight stays in portaledges in the magnificent Verdon Gorges.
This allows climbers to tackle various multi-pitch routes (of varying lengths and difficulties) where they can spend the night after a few pitches, finishing the following morning. It will be an opportunity to introduce participants to the challenges of climbing on a wall (setting up and taking down the portaledge, hauling techniques, life and safety on the portaledge, etc.).
For this adventure, please bring:
- A small backpack.
- A headlamp.
- Warm clothing for the evenings.
It's also possible to climb a multi-pitch route together in the Verdon Gorges without spending the night in a portaledge. And to progress in this activity, I recommend this introductory multi-pitch climbing course in the Verdon.
You can also try some exciting vertical adventures in the region by descending the dry canyon of Notre-Dame or the Venasque dry canyon in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.
Program
The itinerary of the outing will largely depend on the route being climbed and will take into account the overnight stay in a portaledge. This will generally take place towards the end of the climb. The outing may consist of the following indicative steps:
- Meeting: The meeting place and time will be communicated in advance. These will, of course, depend on the route being climbed. After making contact, personal equipment will be checked, and any additional equipment will be loaned to the participant(s). We will also review certain logistical aspects together (food, drinks, sleeping arrangements, etc.). The itinerary for the outing and the route will be presented, and I will be happy to answer any questions.
- Approach: This will generally be done by rappelling, which will allow us to leave the necessary equipment for the evening and night in the final section of the route, where we will subsequently set up the portaledge(s). On rare occasions, access to the base of the route may be possible on foot. We will then haul the equipment up the entire route.
- Briefing (before rappelling and/or climbing): Before the rappels or at the base of the route, we will gear up and I will give you the final recommendations (equipment, communication, progression, etc.).
- Climb: I will not only guide you along the different pitches of the multi-pitch route, but I will also take the opportunity to coach you on technique and movement, always with the aim of strengthening your confidence and independence. The belay stations will be prime opportunities to chat, and the use of walkie-talkies will also facilitate your support throughout the climb.
- Evening: Once we arrive at the bivouac site, we will set up the portaledge(s) together to spend the evening and night. I will take this opportunity to present some aspects necessary for safety and the organization of a climbing trip. Afterwards, we can enjoy dinner while taking in the breathtaking view of the gorges from our "balcony." The evening will also be an opportunity to learn about the specific characteristics of the Verdon Gorges (its physical environment, biodiversity, climbing, etc.) and perhaps make some excellent wildlife observations.
- Night: After our evening activities, we'll settle in for the night (still secured in our sleeping bags!).
- Morning: We'll generally wake up quite early and enjoy the beautiful dawn light while having breakfast. Afterwards, we'll pack up the portaledge(s) and prepare our equipment to complete our climb.
- Return: As with the approach, the return to the starting point will depend on the chosen route. Once back at the cars, we'll pack up our equipment and take some time to discuss this exhilarating experience...
The price includes
- Supervision by the climbing instructor.
- Loan of individual and group climbing equipment (harness, helmet, belay device, rope, quickdraws, etc.).
- Prices (vary depending on duration and difficulty):
| Number of participants | Price per person |
| 1 | from 380 to 500€ |
| 2 | from 230 to 290€ |
- Prices vary depending on the duration and difficulty. A supplement of 50€ per person is charged for dinner and breakfast.
The price does not include
- Round-trip transportation to the meeting point.
- Catering.
- Drinks.
- Sleeping bag.
- Anything not mentioned in "The price includes".
No scheduled departure, but you can contact me to book your dates.
Infos & Booking