Restonica Gorge - Climbing by moonlight

The two things I knew about the Restonica Gorge in Corsica turned out both to be true. Firstly, there is some excellent granite rock climbing there and secondly, August is way too hot to climb during the day. However, for those with the inclination and motivation, there are ways and means for the travelling climbers who find themselves there in the heat of summer...

Besides the multitude of granite cliffs (the vast majority of which are yet to be climbed and look like they'll offer some serious adventures to those keen for a bit of bushwacking) there is also a splendid river running through the gorge - and this is the key to survival in summer. There is plenty of shade by the riverside and more than enough plunge pools to cool off in throughout the heat of the day. With a picnic, book and a snorkel day soon flies by!

On our first day in the gorge, we camped at the gorge entrance and as the sun began to dip, enjoyed some nibbles in the cool shade, before venturing back out after sunset. With the sun gone and the air temperature 28degrees, an idyllic climbing experience can be had! Shirts off, harness one, and one by one we completed several beautiful routes. As the light faded, the moon rose, allowing us to sneak in a few extra routes by the light of the moon. Magical! Eventually, we fumbled and stumbled our way back to the car, and half an hour later, we were sat sipping fine wines and ordering pizza in the old citadel of Corte...