Climbing has become one of the most popular sports in Portugal, thanks to the numerous rock formations found throughout the country. Depending on your skill level and interests, you can choose from several routes to enjoy a day of climbing. You don't have to be of a certain age or skill level to do this. All you have to do is relax and enjoy yourself, as the rest will be taken care of by the organising companies in Portugal.
1. Where to go rock climbing in Portugal?
Climbing can be done in any of Portugal's mountainous zones. There are, however, a few sites throughout Portugal that have become climbing's crown jewels. One of these is Oporto's well-known Nossa Senhora do Salto, where you can climb in the gorge made in the Douro River's valley as it passes through this municipality. Viseu is another excellent climbing destination; particularly the cliffs near Aldeia da Pena in the Serra do São Macário. This is a mountainous route where you can climb using ropes and natural anchors while taking in the serenity and quiet of the countryside. If you want to bring out your more adventurous side and put your climbing skills to the test, head to the hilly location of Nossa Senhora do Cabo near Setúbal. Here, you'll find a 69-meter plunge and a 30-meter abseil to accomplish. This climbing route is intended for climbers with higher experience. Climbing is also available in Setúbal's Serra da Arrábida, where you may put your talents to the test on the continuous rock cliffs that make up the area.
2. What types of climbing can be practised in Portugal?
Classic climbing is the most well-known, as the anchors are already carefully placed to safeguard your route. You will be able to employ belayers and nails to keep yourself safe on your adventure. Artificial climbing, on the other hand, is more difficult because it is done on smooth walls and requires the use of hooks, stirrups, and ladders. The most dangerous type is high mountain climbing, often known as alpine climbing, which requires specific abilities to be done safely. The same is true of free climbing, reserved for high-level specialists who can reach the summit just by utilising their bodies. Finally, bouldering is one of the most popular modalities for those who desire a climbing experience. This is one of the safest ways because of the low height, which protects the participant's safety in the event of a fall. These climbing activities can also be done indoors, on climbing walls. This consists of training in circuits in facilities prepared to house a group of people who want to climb more safely and then put it into practice on the rock formations.
3. What are the essential materials for climbing?
To enjoy a safe climbing experience, we must have the appropriate materials that allow us to forget about everything else. Because it provides support and aids in weight distribution, the climbing harness is one of the most essential items to utilise when climbing. Don't worry because it comes in many sizes, so you may pick the one that best fits your needs. The climbing helmet should be sturdy and well-fitting to your head. Climbing requires special footwear, so we recommend that you wear climbing shoes, which will allow you to move easily and safely on rock faces. To keep you safe during the ascent, it is necessary to use quickdraws, made up of two carabiners that will serve as anchors at both ends as you progress. You can reinforce this safety with the help of the anchor ropes, which will allow the climber to pass the rope to carry out the belay. This rope is another essential element for maintaining safety. It must be long and strong and, if possible, in a striking colour so that you don't lose sight of it.
4. What are the climbing requirements in Portugal?
Although climbing is usually thought of as a dangerous sport, the truth is that anyone of any skill level may enjoy an adventure scaling rocks and high walls. There are many paths suitable to each skill level and you can begin your adventure in this realm at any time with climbing baptisms. It is not essential to be a certain age to start climbing, but it is recommended that the youngest members of the family refrain from participating in this sport to ensure their safety. Climbing on climbing walls, where the difficulty is low and the practice is less risky, is the most suitable activity for this group. Otherwise, there is no essential requirement to follow that limits your enjoyment of climbing.
5. What is the duration of the climbing sessions?
Climbing experiences vary in length depending on the type of surface you wish to climb or descend, the level at which you participate in the sport, and, most importantly, the skill level. Climbing routes, on the other hand, have an approximate time of up to 2 hours, depending on the complexity and number of kilometres covered. All of these activities are accompanied by an entrance section to the location where they will be carried out and a briefing before they begin. A briefing session with the instructor will clarify your doubts and allow you to learn the basic and necessary concepts to put them into practice and make the most of the experience. From this moment on, the adventure begins!
When in Portugal is the ideal time to go climbing?
The most frequently asked question when arranging a climbing activity is, "When can I climb?" You should be aware that climbing in high conditions, whether hot or cold, is not a pleasant experience. As a result, the best season to climb is in the fall, from September to November, when temperatures and humidity are at their lowest.
