While down in the South West, but without a great deal of time for explorations, we took a brief stop off to climb a few routes at Portishead Quarry. It's just minutes off the M5, so about as convenient as it gets. We've climbed here several times before, but a new parking and access arrangement, meant that we had to walk in a different and slightly longer way. Initially, we thought this would be a hassle, but it turned out to be a ten-minute stroll through some bluebell filled old woodlands - we even came across two deer on the way back out.
There's been a bit of extra development in terms of climbing over the last few years, but the main slab, remains the best looking bit of rock.
Clare led the first route, which is on trad gear, but finishing at two lower-off bolts.
Then the sun came out as we climbed the other two routes on the slab. It felt great to have the sun on our backs and climbing great routes in the peace and quiet of the old quarry.
Back on the road, the traffic was kind to us and we made it back to Wales tired, but without hold ups. Unpacking at The Cottage, it felt like we'd been away for weeks!
Portishead Quarry:
- Pharos, Severe (4a)**
- Pickpocket, HVS (4c)**
- Brink of Solarity HVS (5a)**
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