Rock + Run is advertising in, and supporting a new guidebook, the first in English to the superb sport climbing in north-west Spain. Almost unknown outside Spain this is an area that’s recommended by everyone who goes: Dave Pickford, editor of Climb Magazine described the area as ‘quite possibly Europe’s best kept climbing secret’. Roca Verde is the first English language guide to this area, it’s also the first guide ever to include the crags in the Desfiladero de La Hermida near Santander, and is currently the only sport climbing guide to Leon.
The author Richie Patterson tells us more about the book: “Roca Verde climbing is an attempt to publicise one of the best-kept secrets in Spanish climbing, the numerous superb venues and fantastic sport climbing in and around the ‘Cordillera Cantabrica’ mountain range in north-west Spain. In Roca Verde we have selected the best crags in Asturias, Cantabria and Leon, to create a guide which incorporates the complementary areas most utilised by the regions’ climbers.
Areas Included Overview Map
Our intention is to highlight this fantastic area, which we believe has the potential to be a new ‘hotspot’ destination and a regular stopover for European climbers. The Roca Verde region is well served by international flights and ferries, has an excellent road network and, unlike much of Spain, has a climate that is amenable to climbing through the summer months.”
Roca Verde contains over 40 selected venues, over 190 distinct sectors and nearly 3000 routes. Just as importantly, it includes the information the locals know; how to choose the right venue for sun or shade, summer or winter and for whatever grade you climb.