10 exceptional climbing sites around the world

The Jebel Lekst, in the Moroccan Anti-Atlas

Jebel Lekstn, which culminates at 2,345 m, is an ideal mountain range for climbing because its quartzite rocks have many holds while being very dense. The view of Tafraoute and its pink granite mountains, when you climb up, is splendid. One tip: avoid climbing during the summer in the Anti-Atlas, temperatures rise very quickly and the sun heats the rock!

Pedra Do Baú, climbing in BrazilPedra

Along Bay, a Vietnamese climbing sanctuary

With its 1,969 islands listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Along Bay is one of Vietnam's wonders. Its many rocky peaks form climbing sites for climbers of all levels. On the island of Dau Be, the triangular and limestone cliffs are reserved for the most experienced climbers. Cat Ba Island has a large number of trails that will satisfy beginners.

Getu He, Chinese climbing empire

A 5-hour drive from Guiyang, in southwest China, the Getu He Valley is the country's main climbing spot. Its limestone cliffs seem to form a single and gigantic massif. One of these formations is called the great arch for the important cavity in its center: it is the site not to be missed! Other routes were equipped during the 2001 Petzl Roc Trip, a large gathering of climbers

El Potrero Chico, attacking Mexican roads

To escape the low temperatures during the winter, head for northern Mexico and the Potrero Chico Park a few kilometers from Hidalgo in Nuevo León. Among the many limestone rock walls of the once submerged El Toro massif, some exceed 900 m in height and others are reserved for less experienced climbers. It is possible to camp directly at the foot of the cliffs.

Krabi, climbing in Thailand

Between Phuket and the Phi Phi Phi Islands, the unspoilt beaches of Krabi province in Thailand attract many travellers. Among the latter are many climbers who have come to challenge the cracked limestone walls of East Railay, West Railay, Tonsai and Phra Nang Beach. In all, there are more than 500 climbing routes available for beginners and experienced climbers, with a maximum height of 120 m

Dobongsan Mountain, rock climbing in South Korea

Dobongsan Mountain is located in Bukhansan National Park, north of Seoul in South Korea. A favourite destination of the Seoulites on sunny days, the park also welcomes sports enthusiasts who come to challenge the granite rocks at an altitude of more than 730 m. Dobongsan offers breathtaking panoramic views throughout its ascent, it is one of the most popular spots for beginners and experienced climbers

Wharepapa South, an exceptional site

Not far from Hamilton, in the heart of New Zealand's North Island, Wharepapa South offers more than 800 courses in a rich and unspoilt natural setting. It is one of the most popular climbing spots in the country, especially for its pleasant climate all year round and its rocky walls scattered throughout the site. It is possible to take courses on site to learn how to climb in a sumptuous setting

The Pordoi pass, climbing in the Dolomites

The Dolomites are a pre-Alpine massif located in northeastern Italy, between Trentino Alto Adige and Veneto. Le Corbusier described it as "the most beautiful architectural work in the world". Its walls of light-coloured rocks, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, make many climbers dream. To reach the panoramic view of Sass Pordoi, you will have to take the Maria Way and its rather steep walls

Monkey Face, temple of American climbing

Located in Smith Rock Park in Oregon, Monkey Face is a monolith with vertical walls that owes its name to its strange monkey head shape. From its 100 m high, it offers multiple climbing routes. Among the most famous are the Just do it, the Rude Boys or the Scarface - with rather evocative names - reserved for the most experienced climbers because of their difficulty