Category — Italy

One of the many cool features of the Alps is the great variety of its climate. Freezing at the big glaciers in the high Alps or sweating in limestone above palme lakesides. It’s up to your choice.

I used to vote for snow and glaciers but when I received an invitation from a fellow climber living in Trentino (Italy) I did not hesitate. Rock climbing in the november sun around Arco while all my friends on the northern side of the Alps are desperate about the usual bad autumn weather seemed to be very attractive.

After a few hours travelling by train I was welcomed by Gavin, a scot climber and mountaineer who happens to live near Trento with his Italien wife and their daughter.

Arco was discovered as a rockclimber’s paradise in the 1970s. Especially German climbers realised that in the sunny and warm climate around the Lake Garda climbing was to enjoyed around the whole year. Even in winter it is usually warm enough to climb at least those routes which are exposed to the sun.

Arco is on the northern side of the Lake Garda where the landscape has almost some fjord like touch due to the rocky fringes of the Alps nearby. The climbing is limbstone and covers almost all types and difficulties. Beside climbing Arco is today a well-known mountain-bike destination as well. And of course, those who don’t like the vertical can do every possible water sport which makes Arco a perfect location for families.

In and around Arco there are dozens of climbing gear shops and outlets of all major (Italian) brands. Specialised climbing gear (like ropes, nuts, friends etc.) is to be found in these shops to an unbeatable price.