Introduction to the rock climbing around Avignon in the Loire Valley

The area to the north east of Avignon, in the south of France, there are over 50 different crags offering good quality sports climbing. These crags are generally relatively small and spread out, which means they are usually quiet and peaceful places to rock climb, and are in stunning locations. The routes are mainly single pitch on predominantly limestone rock, and most crags have a good mix of grades that has got something for everyone. At some of the crags there are also some multi-pitch routes as well, up to 100m high.

The climate around Avignon is very sunny and warm. Fortunately the different crags in this area are at various altitudes ranging from 100m to 900m above sea level. This makes it possible to climb here all year round providing you choose your crag appropriately, though the best times are in the spring and autumn. However this area also attracts the famous Mistral wind, which cools the temperature from 30+ degrees (in the summer) to a wonderful 20-22 degrees in the sun - ideal rock climbing conditions.

The map below shows the location of the main crags, though there are many more smaller crags in this beautiful area of France.