Climbing in the Canary Islands: 15 Years of Passion for Vertical Adventure
Gran Canaria is a vertical paradise that has captivated generations of climbers. For 15 years, I have explored and helped develop climbing on the island, publishing the first climbing guide with over 700 routes in 20 sectors. The reception was incredible, with 2,000 copies sold in just two years. Although the guide is now sold out, at Climb in Canarias, we promote climbing in Gran Canaria with training, guiding, and services for audiovisual productions.
Creation of the Climbing Guide: A Process of Dedication and Passion
The creation of the Gran Canaria climbing guide was a process that took more than two years of work. During that time, I dedicated myself to climbing almost all the published routes to verify the grades and ensure they were up to date. Additionally, we were constantly taking photographs and drawing hand sketches, which were later digitized. To ensure a quality result, I collaborated with a graphic designer who is also a climber, Manolo, which allowed the guide to have an attractive and functional design. Thanks to all this effort, it finally came to light and became a reference for climbing on the island.
History of Climbing in Gran Canaria: Pioneers and Evolution
The history of climbing in Gran Canaria doesn’t begin here, but many years before. I have had the privilege of meeting and climbing with pioneers like Juan Cano and Manolo Cardona, who began opening the first routes in Ayacata with a completely classic style, using only trad protection. Over time, they acquired the first drill and began equipping the first permanent protection, shaping what is now sport climbing on the island.
Climbing All Year Round: Gran Canaria’s Perfect Climate
One of the great attractions of Gran Canaria is that you can climb all year round. Its privileged climate allows you to enjoy the rock both in winter and summer, adapting the choice of sector according to the temperature.
My Favorite Areas: El Cenobio, Fataga, and Sorrueda
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to climb in many places, but my favorite areas are El Cenobio, Fataga, and Sorrueda. In Sorrueda, I gained experience in on-sight climbing at an intermediate level, while in Fataga I faced much harder routes. However, my true progression laboratory has been El Cenobio, a sector where there is practically one route for each level, from V to 8c, making it the best place to improve gradually. Additionally, it is the sector closest to my home, so it has always been my training ground. Without a doubt, this is what has most helped me improve my level as a climber.
International and Local Climbing: Sharing Ropes with Legends of the Sport
Throughout these years, I have not only explored and developed climbing in Gran Canaria, but I have also had the opportunity to share ropes with some of the best climbers on the island and in the world. I have guided international climbers such as Steve McClure, a legend of sport climbing, and I’ve been roped up with local talents like Roque and Juan Aguilar. Climbing alongside athletes of this caliber has been an enriching experience, allowing me to learn, evolve, and continue enjoying this sport with the same passion as on the first day.
Gran Canaria remains a constantly evolving climbing destination, and if you want to discover its magic, we look forward to seeing you at Climb in Canarias.
