CLIMBING

For the most part climbs over here are well thought out and have well bolted routes. You would need to look into buying a good book. The information here is part of a very much more detailed list of climbs taken out of the "Bourgogne onsight - a vue" by David & Carrue Atchison-Jones. They recommend that for any climbing you should also kit yourself with a local guide book bought at the local tourist office. Ropes and all the other gear should be brought along.

We are fortunate in that at HAUTEROCHE, opposite Ecorsaint, there begins your adventure into the climbing world! It takes approximately 5-10mins to arrive by car. Either parking right up by the beginning of the rocks or, by parking at the beginning of the cliff path. This is where the beginners-Bourgogne sections starts. There are 43 climbs.

SAFFRES has the most famous of all cliffs. It's situated near to Vitteaux, a small village perfect for a quick shop or a meal in one of the three good restaurants! There are over 400 bolted routes here. It's situated approximately 20 mins from Ecorsaint. Saffres has wonderful views with plentiful shade from the trees set around the climbs. It's very popular but as with most things, central France is never that busy.

From Saffres, there are numerous other climbing centres. GELIGNY - BOUILLAND which in the summer during a heatwave makes it one of the most desirable crags for climbing. Otherwise it can be a little oppressive with no great views and is very heavily shaded. Good thought given to beginners and less experienced climbers.

At LANTENAY with Sombernon nearby with its two restaurants and supermarket, there are 48 climbs. Sombernon is approximately 25 minutes from Ecorsaint. These are short, hard, technical and powerful crags fit for any adventurer! There are also bird watchers - as many as climbers ! Lantenay is approximately a half hours drive from Ecorsaint.

Like with all climbing venues, here in France you can picnic or barbeque. Like elsewhere the rules remains the same - take your litter home with you, or clean up anything left behind by anyone else.

For further information:
http://www.cotedor-tourisme.com/
http://www.bourgogne-tourisme.com/