As with so many of our adventures and explorations, things started with a simple tip-off, photo and message about an area. Only a month or so ago, neither of us had heard of the town of Datça or the huge cliffs rumoured to be in the valley above it. Having since invested a not inconsiderable amount of time and money into getting ourselves to this far western peninsula of Turkey, the car was filled with a distinct amount of trepidation, excitement and anticipation as we bounced along the rocky road to the GPS co-ordinates of the 'car park'. The dusty road side pull-in came just before the road surface completely turned to rubble, so we were happy to continue on foot, despite the guide suggesting that there was some closer parking a little further on.
Walking into the deserted valley was magical. There was only the sound of birds, insects and wind in the trees.
As the main cliff, known as the 'Indian Man' came into full view, we had to just stop and stare as a huge vulture type bird flew overhead. We felt like the only humans for many many miles.
As we climbed higher into the forest and towards our chosen cliff, the massive cave came into view as well. Wow it was big and covering in flowstone, stalactites and tufas!
Sitting at the base of our cliff, we had a full panorama of the valley. It was all rather amazing and well worth the efforts of getting ourselves here!
We climbed while it was still in the cool of the shade. The climbs are extremely well bolted and the rock is sharp and un-polished. The gamble was paying off.
Later in the afternoon, we heard another voice in the distance and eventually picked out a couple of climbers on the main cliff on the other side of the valley. We were not alone after all...
There are some beautiful trees at the base of the crag, with really smooth red trunks and branches. I've not been able to find out what they are - any guesses Dudley?!..
All in all, it was the perfect intro to climbing in the area. Peaceful, quiet, great climbs, plenty of sunshine and a short walk up!
By around 15:00 we were both tiring and over heating, so decided to make our way back down to the coast, where the cooling waters of the Aegean Sea were waiting for us.
Refreshed by the sea, we retuned back to the sun dappled shade of the balcony.
Climbs at Çocuklar Crag:
- Yigit, 5a+
- Noa, 5b
- Eva, 5c
- Mercan, 6a+
- Ann icin, 6c*
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