If you're just starting out as a climber you're surely excited to begin your climbing skills in the great outdoors. Your next vacation should be in a location where you can put all of your knowledge to the test and enjoy majestic scenery. Deciding where to go will depend on the type of climbing you've been training for and what interests you the most.



The Devil's Tower is located in Wyoming and has gained popularity since it was used in the movie Close Encounters of the Third Kind. There is also the ultimate climb of Mount Everest in Nepal which requires expert skills and a great amount of experience. There are also lesser known climbing locations that offer the excitement and thrill of this sport.

El Capitan is located in Yosemite National Park in California and is one of the most popular climbing areas in the United States. You can climb the North America Wall and the Wall of the Early Morning Light. A week is preferred for climbing in this area but you can complete a climb in less than 24 hours.

If you're considering a holiday to the United Kingdom then check out Fair Head in Ireland. It has been one of the most popular climbing locations and for good reason; dolerite columns rise hundreds of feet from the sea below. There are awe inspiring vistas which include lakes and bog lands.

Also in the UK is Black Crag in Borrowdale, Scotland which is popular among local climbers. Obituary Grooves and Troutdale Pinnacle are two areas that are popular for their amazing views and grippy rock. Troutdale Pinnacle has a lot of moss covered rock so ensure you double rope.

Also oversees is Penon D'Ifach in Spain which offers you a limestone mountain rising up along the sea over 1000 feet. Some routes are only 12 hours but most of them take a few days. The mountain has many overhangs so you'll need plenty of rack and consider a helmet since you'll be in the sun most of the time.

Not too far from Spain is Ceuse in France. It is located in the French Alps and is popular for its verticals and green hill vistas. It has a mixture of overhangs and slabs and has numerous campsites. The limestone has plenty of bolted areas for sport climbing as well.

No matter what your skill level is you're sure to find a self catering vacation spot to enjoy climbing. There are climbing locations to enjoy no matter what part of the world you're traveling to.