The Call of the Sierra Calderona

The Sierra Calderona, with its rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas, had been calling my name for quite some time. As someone who has scaled mountains and trekked through deserts, the allure of a new climbing adventure was irresistible. This time, I was headed to Sagunto, Valencia, to experience the Outdoor Climbing in the heart of this stunning natural park. The promise of year-round climbing, thanks to the mild Spanish weather, was too tempting to pass up.

Upon arrival, the landscape did not disappoint. The Sierra Calderona stretched out before me, a majestic tapestry of rock and forest, with the distant shimmer of the sea on the horizon. Our group of thrill-seekers, all eager to test our mettle against the rock, was greeted by our guides, Pablo and Jorge. Their reputation as superb instructors preceded them, and I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype.

Scaling New Heights

The first day of climbing was a revelation. The rock faces of the Sierra Calderona offered a variety of routes, each with its own unique challenges and rewards. Pablo and Jorge, with their infectious humor and expert guidance, made the experience both exhilarating and educational. They introduced us to the basics of outdoor climbing, ensuring that even the most inexperienced among us felt confident and secure.

As we ascended the rock, the views became increasingly spectacular. The forest below, the distant city of Valencia, and the azure expanse of the Mediterranean Sea created a panorama that was both humbling and inspiring. It was a reminder of why I fell in love with climbing in the first place—the perfect blend of physical challenge and natural beauty.

A Community of Climbers

One of the highlights of the trip was the camaraderie that developed among our group. In the evenings, we gathered around a campfire, sharing stories of past adventures and dreams of future ones. Pablo and Jorge, with their wealth of experience and endless supply of jokes, were the heart and soul of these gatherings.

We discussed climbing techniques, shared tips on tackling difficult routes, and even learned a few new tricks from our guides. Their dedication to safety and perfectionism was evident in every aspect of the trip, from the careful instruction they provided to the way they looked after each member of our group.

As the sun set on our final day in the Sierra Calderona, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experience. It was more than just a climbing trip; it was a journey of discovery, both of the stunning landscape and of the incredible people I had the privilege to climb with. The Sierra Calderona had left its mark on me, and I knew I would return to its rocky embrace again.