France: Ariège

Year: 2012 Format: 15x21 Pages: 312 Photos: col The Ariège region is located in southern France, in the area where the river of the same name descends from Andorra and crosses the Pyrenees on its way to the coast. There are many types of climbing with a superb variety of rock types, from the granite slabs of Dent d'Orlu, to the steep limestones of Genat. The area has a long and varied history offering plenty to do beyond climbing, including mountain walking, caving, rafting, skiing and numerous ancient castles. There is climbing almost all year round, in a region easily accessible from Northern Europe and with a wide choice of accommodation. The areas covered by the guide are in and around the valley of the main Ariège river which flows from Andorra through Tarascon-sur-Ariege and Foix. All the main sport climbing crags are covered, including Alliat, Auzat, Calames, Sinsat and Plantaurel, as well as many more routes on Dent d'Orlu and Sinsat. Despite its attractions, the area has remained out of the mainstream of the climbing world and it is hoped that this publication will raise awareness of this area as a major new destination for climbers. In English.