Min. 5b seconding. Some experience in belaying is an advantage.
Climbing in Sicily: a paradise between sea and rock!
Sicily, the largest Mediterranean island, offers climbing enthusiasts a unique natural experience. The climbing spot San Vito lo Capo presents itself as a true eldorado for sport climbers and adventure lovers. Along the Scogliera di Salinella, a roughly 3-kilometre-long rock barrier right by the sea, stretches a climbing world that challenges heart and muscles in equal measure. Come along for a week of sport climbing on the sun-warmed rock of Sicily!
from CHF 1'495.00
The variety of routes between San Vito lo Capo and Palermo is breathtaking: from rough limestone with razor-sharp edges to reddish coral-rock walls that look smooth at first but hide surprisingly good holds. Whether vertical walls, overhangs or small roofs – every climber finds their challenge here. Even layback cracks and corners can be found on this remarkable rock barrier!
Another highlight are the ideal approach conditions. In just a few minutes we reach our routes, which means more time for the actual climbing ;). Even world-class routes such as Adam Ondra’s «Climb for Life» (9a) are quickly accessible. The slightly winding rock barrier also offers numerous wind-sheltered areas, so that in unsettled weather we can always find a protected place to climb.
Besides the main walls, caves with unique tufa formations beckon, with the «Never Sleeping Wall» standing out in particular. For boulder fans, the blocks in the region hold additional challenges. The proximity to the beach, short approaches and the friendly local climbing scene turn San Vito lo Capo into a real climbing village. Although there are numerous hard routes, climbers from the 5th French grade upwards also find varied and exciting routes in a very small area. Thanks to our mountain guide you combine an exciting climbing week in a small group with climbing coaching tailored to the level of the participants!
The food during the trip is another highlight: fresh Mediterranean cuisine and local specialities such as busiate pasta and arancini provide culinary pleasure after our strenuous climbing days. The relaxed atmosphere of the Sicilians and the breathtaking landscape make this climbing holiday an incomparable experience!
Should we look for another adventure after climbing, we can visit the Riserva dello Zingaro or the Riserva del Monte Cofano nature parks, walk through the historic town of Erice or go swimming. If the sea is calm enough, we can also set off on an exciting DWS (Deep Water Solo) adventure!
Min. 5b seconding. Some experience in belaying is an advantage.
Short approaches to the crag. Somewhat more endurance if the multi-pitch routes of the region are visited.
Travel from Switzerland by plane or by car and ferry to Palermo. Drive to San Vito lo Capo and check-in at our accommodation. A relaxed tour through the town and a first contact with the island’s distinctive cuisine: arancini, babà, pizza and all the treats the island has to offer 😉 If the temperatures allow it, a refreshing jump into the sea. Discussing wishes, goals and the climbing content of the week with the mountain guide.
A full programme awaits us! Long climbing days between San Vito and Palermo, fine local food and technique coaching are on the agenda. Of course there will be no shortage of relaxing moments, tasty Mediterranean food on the beach included! We can also take a rest day to explore the surroundings and nature, should the participants wish. The island is packed with fascinating natural-history treats!
The morning is still at our disposal to pick up the last souvenirs, climb the last route or dare one final jump into the cool water. In the afternoon we head back towards Switzerland. It was great to have you with us!
We prefer nice, local accommodation – including Airbnbs, hotels and apartments – in San Vito lo Capo or in nearby Castelluzzo.
The cliff «Scogliera di Salinella» stretches for around 5 kilometres along the north-west coast of Sicily – such a long continuous climbing wall is unique among European sport climbing areas. Over 1,200 excellently bolted sport climbing routes can now be found on the rock barriers around San Vito lo Capo, the majority in the 5th and 6th French grades. The setting is impressive: climbing with a sea view, the constant surf against the cliffs, no road noise, pure nature.
We will certainly spend a day at the brilliant Never Sleeping Wall and at Rocca Cerriolo. A few routes at Fakiros Beach and at the Bunker are part of the compulsory programme anyway. Every day we decide together which sector best suits the group, the weather and the sun exposure. It quickly becomes clear that we will not come anywhere near ticking off all the routes at our level – so we limit ourselves to the finest routes in each sector.
The perfect climbing season runs from October to March, with the transitional months of October and November being particularly recommended. The climate is mild, the landscape is green and the sea temperature is still pleasantly warm.
The airport in Palermo is ideal for getting there. San Vito lo Capo is reached in about a 2-hour drive.
We prefer nice, local accommodation, including Airbnbs, hotels and apartments. During the trip we will stay either in San Vito lo Capo itself or in the nearby village of Castelluzzo.
San Vito lo Capo is considered the mecca of sport climbing in Sicily. According to the website Thecrag.com there are over 1300 sport climbing routes here, split across countless sectors. Between Palermo and San Vito lo Capo you will also find several alpine climbing routes, which we can of course do together!
