Rock Climbing in Isili and around Oristano

Isili is in the centre of Sardinia and is one of Sardinia's popular rock climbing areas with many superb roof climbs. The rock climbing around Oristano covers many different types of rock, from limestone, basalt in the north, and granite bouldering to the west. With the exception of the rock climbing at Isili, all the rock climbing in the Oristano area has recently been developed, and therefore offers tremendous scope for adding new routes.

Isili, in the centre of the island is one of Europe's premier roof climbing centres, with superb pocket pulling on outrageously steep rock (up to 45° overhanging). In total there are 18 separate crags in this area. There are easier routes, for instance at the Pietra Filosfale, but you need to be able to climb 6a minimum here. First developed in 1988, many of the 250-odd routes have recently been re-equipped with new bolts.

It is possible to rock climb at Isili throughout the year although in the summer there are only a few sectors where you can find shade. To climb all the sports routes in this area, a single 60m rope and up to 12 quickdraws will be sufficient

Thanks has to go to Peter Herold who has contributed much of this text. Peter with his wife Ann run the Lemon house. This is a guesthouse for climbers, cyclists and walkers based in Lotzorai, Ogliastra.