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Weekend HotRock

Pyrenees Climbing

  • Where?

    France

  • Altitude

  • Duration

    3 days

  • Weather

  • Physical

    P3

  • Technical

    T3

  • P3 - This trip is physically tough. Frequent exercise is necessary to prepare properly for this expedition. Regular walking mixed with training at the gym to build up endurance and cardiovascular fitness is key. Expect to be able to do 8 hour days in hilly and often steep train, carrying a pack of 6-10kg in weight with the occasional extra long day.

    Visit our Grading Information page for a full overview.

  • T3 - May involve harder scrambling or some trekking and climbing with ropes. If snow is encountered then glacier travel with ropes, ice axes and crampons will be necessary. Basic climbing skills are ideal, but these will also be taught (and certainly practiced) during the expedition and pre-summit phase.

    Visit our Grading Information page for a full overview.

  • Overview

  • Date & Prices

  • Pics & Vids

  • Itinerary

  • Kit List

  • FAQs

Overview

This rock climbing getaway offers you the chance to experience a fantastic variety of rock types and allows you to hone your developed techniques and polishes those unfamiliar to you. Whether you are a total beginner or veteran, this 3-day plan should be on your radar. The plan works brilliantly on a private basis, 1:1 climbing or, if you want to spread the cost, grab your climbing partner and we will work with that combination. Both options allow you to maximise your time climbing and you will leave having had a huge dose of the great outdoors and you will be climbing several grades harder than when you arrived. During your time here, you will receive continuous encouragement, tuition and personalised route selection by your guide.

The venues: The Pyrenees have always been highly regarded by rock climbing connoisseurs. The dependable climate, variety of rock types, diversity of venues and scope for real climbing adventure is enormous. This long weekend getaway caters to those who have recently discovered the joys of outdoor climbing and those who want to climb real rock in a magnificent outdoor setting. The venues where this weekend will take you are world class and provide a huge variety of rock types to hone your climbing prowess. Tackle the finger pockets and gymnastic moves on the limestone wall of Troubat, balance carefully up the massive granite slabs of Cavallers and power up the overhanging gneiss of Cierp Gaud.

This weekend sure packs a mean punch when it comes to climbing real rock! Please note: dates are provisional. You choose your dates, and we will make it happen!

Find out more
Weekend HotRock, Pyrenees Climbing

Date & Prices

For private trips or bespoke itineraries inc. different dates, please contact the 360 office on 0207 1834 360.
A monthly payment plan is possible, please contact the office to chat through the options.

For private trips or bespoke itineraries inc. different dates, please contact the 360 office on 0207 1834 360.
A monthly payment plan is possible, please contact the office to chat through the options.

We currently have no scheduled dates for this expedition, however if you give the office a call on 0207 1834 360 it would be easy for us to get this up and running.

Included

  • Maximum four clients
  • Client to instructor ratio 4:1 maximum.
  • Course is structured to the individual’s ability (T2 up to T6)
  • 360 Rock Climbing instructor
  • Airport transfers to and from Toulouse
  • Transfers to crags
  • Tent for wild camping
  • Camping cooking equipment
  • Climbing equipment
  • Cotswold Outdoor discount
  • Monthly payment plan, on request

Not Included

  • International flights to Toulouse
  • Sleeping bag and sleeping mat
  • Insurance
  • Meals
  • Alcohol, laundry and other items of a personal nature
  • Any additional costs associated with leaving the expedition early
  • Guesthouse accommodation (Please note this option exists to wild campers when the weather forecast is less favourable.)

Pics & Vids

Itinerary

DAY 1 : Arrive France: Fly, land and climb!

Catch an early flight to Toulouse and you will be met at the airport by your instructor and transferred directly to the first climbing venue.

We will jump straight into the action and tie into the rope at Troubat, the spectacular setting for the world’s first World Outdoor climbing competition (won by American Lynn Hill).

After an exhilarating few hours climbing, we will set up for the night, wild camping close to the crags.

Grades range from F4a to F8c.

DAY 2 : Transfer to Cavallers, Spain (1 ½ hrs)

We’ll transfer across into Cavallers, in Spain, and an early start sees us roping up for the first of a possible 600 routes in this magnificent alpine setting. On today’s menu is as many miles of granite as you can climb. The variety of pure granite climbing here is awesome and reminiscent of similar rock climbing in Tuolumne Meadows in the States or Booroomba Rocks in Australia. Simply stunning!

Again, we’ll be wild camping and sharing stories under the stars.

Grades range from F4a to F9a.

DAY 3 : Transfer back to France, Cierp Guad, Saint Mamert or Grezian ( 1 ½ hrs). Evening flight home.

Today we hit the hot rock back in France and flex our muscles at the steep terrain offered by the overhanging Gneiss of Cierp Gaud or Grezian. Bolted sport routes aplenty and a chance to receive the monster pump of your life!

After the climbing we’ll transfer back to Toulouse Blagnac Airport for your return flight home.

Grades range from F3 to F8b.

These are subject to minor changes depending on flight arrival and departure times, weather, group dynamics and fitness and so on, but the itinerary outlined provides an excellent indication of the trek and what you will experience.

Kit List

Bags & Packs

Kit bag

A 60L bag is sufficient. This bag will remain in the car whilst we climb. We will only need to take our climbing equipment, any snacks and water to the crags – a 5 minute walk at the most.

Daysack

A 20-30L rucksack to carry your climbing equipment, snacks and water to the crags

Waterproof rucksack cover

To protect rucksack from rain

Sleeping Gear

1-2 Season sleeping bag

You should get a sleeping bag with a rating of around 5C-10C. Choose a sleeping bag that functions within the comfort rating of this temperature.

A silk sleeping bag liner will enhance this rating on the coldest nights

Sleeping mat

A full length self-inflating rather than ¾ length Thermarest

Sleeping bag liner

Silk is best for keeping the bag clean and you a little warmer

Headwear

Climbing helmet (available to borrow from 360)

Try a variety on in a shop before you buy to ensure a good fit.  If you have got a climbing helmet already, then this is good as it’s always good to have your own.  If not 360 can lend you one.

Sunglasses

Category 4 minimum. Worth spending money on good UV filters.  Julbo is our preferred supplier

Sunblock

Essential for protection from the sun

Lip salve

Sun cream will not work on your lips and they are very susceptible to burn without proper protection

Upper Body

Climbing tops

T-shirts

Waterproof jacket

In case it rains

Lower Body

Climbing trousers

Shorts

Waterproof trousers

In case it rains

Underwear

Feet

Walking boots or approach shoes

Well worn in 3 season waterproof (ideally) boots with mid ankle support or sturdy approach shoes

Climbing shoes (available to borrow from 360)

Try a variety on in a shop before you buy to ensure a good fit. Climbing shoes should fit snug but not painfully.  If you have got climbing shoes already, then this is good as it’s always good to have your own.  If not 360 can lend you a pair

Socks

Change of socks

Hydration

Water bottles / bladder

2L capacity either in a combination of bladder and Nalgene bottle or just Nalgene bottles

Technical Equipment

Climbing harness (available to borrow from 360)

It’s always good to have your own climbing harness and we recommend Petzl.

Don’t worry if you don’t have your own – 360 can lend you one at no cost.

Evening Wear

Change of clothing for evenings

Comfortable clothes for the evening

Toiletries

Wash kit

Keep it simple. Essentials are toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant. Moisturiser is advisable, everything else is a luxury!

Wet wipes

Travel towel

Travel towels from the likes of Lifesystems are perfect

Alcohol gel

A must have for good camp hygiene

Medications

Personal first aid kit

Plasters, antiseptic, painkillers etc.

Personal medication

Keep this in your daysack

Miscellaneous

Camera

Bring plenty of spare batteries and memory cards

Head torch

We recommend Petzl head torches. Bring spare batteries.

Snacks

You can buy your favorite snacks at a supermarket on the way to the crag

Ear plugs

For protection against the inevitable snorers!

Documentation

Passport

Don’t forget this! Your passport should have at least 6 months validity.  With your passport expiry date at least six months after the final day of travel.

Copy of passport

Just in case

Travel insurance

Copy of own travel insurance details.  And relevant contact numbers.

We have a partnership with True Traveller and would recommend that you contact them when looking for travel insurance for your trip with 360. However, it is vital that you ensure that the insurance cover they offer is suitable for you, taking your personal circumstances (items to be insured, cancellation cover, medical history) into account. Many other insurance providers are available and we do recommend that you shop around to get the best cover for you on the expedition you are undertaking.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the appropriate insurance for your intended trip.  To include medical evacuation and coverage up to the maximum altitude of this trip.

FAQs

Guides

Are your instructors qualified?

All our instructors have the appropriate Rock Climbing Instructor Award.

Food and Water

Where do we get drinking water from?

All drinking water can be bought at supermarkets along the way to the crag. If we end up not camping then we can also get water from the guest house.

Do you provide meals on this expedition?

No meals are included.

What snacks should I bring?

Always bring your own if you have any favourites.

Snacks can also be bought at the supermarket on the way to the crag.

 

Accommodation

Can we choose to stay in a guesthouse?

Guesthouse accommodation can be arranged at an extra cost for those who prefer this option.

This option also exists to wild-campers when the forecast is less favourable.

Health and Safety

What happens if there is an issue during climbing with a client - a fall or an illness?

360 Expeditions have conducted detailed risk assessments and put the necessary plans in place to cope with any accidents or illness whilst out on the course. Our rock climbing instructors are highly qualified and experienced mountain leaders who hold expedition first aid qualifications and are used to working in remote environments. Their training allows them to deal with situations quickly and safely.

Should someone find themselves requiring further medical attention, the instructor will organise for that individual to be taken from the route and transferred to the nearest hospital. The instructor and the 360 office team will also be on hand to offer guidance and support for insurance claims and contacting next-of-kin.

Kit

What climbing equipment do I need?

Most climbers will have their own climbing shoes, harness and helmet. We can supply them but usually climbers prefer to bring their own kit that fits well with their size.

We provide all other technical equipment. New ropes, carabiners, belay devices, quickdraws and slings.

What wild camping equipment do I need?

You need to bring your own sleeping bag and mat. Your sleeping bag should have a comfort rating of around 5 C-10 C . We provide tents, stoves, pots and pans etc.

The Course

What experience do I need to take part?

This course is suitable for absolute beginners to established rock climbers.

What are the grades?

This weekend is perfect for all level of climbers as the grades range from French 4a to 8c. It is ideal for those wanting to experience real rock for the first time, those who want to develop their sport lead climbing abilities as well as established sport climbers who want to lead world class routes in spectacular locations.

The pace and routes selected are completely client specific. It is easy to set up top ropes on all the routes on the crags we use. Equally European crag development is focused on sport climbing rather than trad climbing and all bolts, anchors and chains are safe and spaced at distances where falls are of little consequence.

The Weather

What is the weather like?

During the day, temperatures can be warm and can even reach to the mid 20 C. In the evening higher up, it could drop to below freezing and have a chill in the air.

As you will be in a mountain environment, the weather can rapidly change for the worse so you need to be prepared for all conditions. Even in good weather it is not uncommon to have short heavy downpours or light snow fall.

Travel

What flights would you suggest?

To get the maximum climbing out of this weekend it is necessary to get the earliest flight in and the latest possible flight out. Transfers are arranged from Toulouse airport (Blagnac) in France. Several budget airlines have scheduled flights departing the main UK airports arriving early Friday morning in Toulouse and departing Toulouse from late Sunday afternoon. This gives you 3 full days of climbing.

Insurance

Do I need special travel insurance for the course?

You must carry individual travel insurance to take part in the expedition. We cannot take you to the crag without proof of insurance.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the appropriate insurance for your intended trip. To include medical evacuation and coverage up to the maximum altitude of this trip.

Your insurance details are requested on the booking form, however this can be arranged at a later date. 360 Expeditions will be requesting your insurance details 8 weeks before your departure.

Do I need an European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for this expedition?

As the trip is based in France it is also worth having a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) as this “gives card holders the right to access state-provided healthcare on temporary stays in other European Economic Area (EEA) countries or Switzerland. Treatment should be provided on the same basis as it would be to a resident of that country and is provided either at reduced cost or, in many cases, for free. The EHIC covers treatment that is medically necessary until the card holder returns home. This includes treatment for pre-existing medical conditions.”

If you don’t already have one, you can apply for one here and it is free.

Many travel insurers won’t cover your medical costs in the unlikely event that you need medical treatment whilst you are away which could have been covered by an EHIC.

Electronics

Where can I charge my phone?

Phones can be charged on the transfers between the crags.

I’ve never felt the need to leave a review before, but the service I received from 360 exceeded all expectations. The expedition experience that Rolfe and the team has is second to none and the training I received from Rolfe, will change the way I work towards my goals in the hills. I’m looking forward to working together on future projects.

Liam Wetherall
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