Single & multi pitch alpine rock climbing weekend in France

Itinerary

Itinerary for single & multi pitch alpine rock climbing weekend in Céüse & Orpierre, France. Your day to day plan to climb the Alps.

DAY 1: Arrival in Gap - make your own way to Gap and check into your hotel (we will help you plan your journey to Gap which is accessible by train and bus from major transport hubs)

DAY 2: Single pitch climbing in Dauphins and Corbières cliffs. Your guide will collect you from the hotel in the morning and take you up to the climbing site.
There are two sections offering a total of 102 routes from 3a to 8a so there really is something for everyone.

It is the perfect first day for everyone to find their climbing level and acclimatise. The guide will rig up a range of routes for you to try and then adapt these as the day progresses to take into account each individual's level.
You'll be able to discuss and test out different belaying devices and rope techniques, try leading (or not!!) and challenge your climbing level, all on beautiful rock in the warm sun with magnificent mountain views.

DAY 3: Climbing in Orpierre - multi pitch skills
Orpierre is a picturesque village, famous worldwide for its impressive cliffs and vibrant sport climbing scene. Encircled by rock faces, the village pulses with the energy of climbers who are visible right from the town square—scaling the Château cliff overhangs, the Belleric slabs, or reaching the peak of Quiquillon. Known as the "village that climbs," Orpierre offers a unique climbing atmosphere.

With over 600 routes ranging from 3c to 8c, there’s something for every level—from smooth slabs to thrilling overhangs. It’s also ideal for multi-pitch climbing, with a variety of routes in different lengths, making it a perfect place for a first multi-pitch experience.

Today’s focus will be on mastering multi-pitch climbing techniques, including rope management and setting up belays on shorter multi-pitch routes.

Lunch options include a relaxed picnic or a meal at one of the village’s local restaurants. To end the day, unwind in the charming village atmosphere with a drink at a local bar before your guide drives you back to Gap.

DAY 4: Climbing Skills in the Ubaye:
Rock climbing in the Ubaye Valley is a special experience, set in a pristine, rugged landscape. With dramatic limestone cliffs and breathtaking alpine views—some overlooking the stunning Serre Ponçon lake—the valley is a true haven for climbers of all levels. Here, you’ll find a mix of technical slab climbs, vertical walls, and exciting multi-pitch routes, offering endless options for progression and adventure.

The valley features several notable climbing spots, including Méolans, considered the premier site in the Ubaye, with 151 routes from 3 to 8c, most between 5a and 6c. This historic site challenges even experienced climbers, demanding precise footwork and careful hand placement. It’s said that certain walls here rank among the most beautiful cliffs in southern France. For more variety, there’s also the Seuil area, with 81 routes from 4c to 8c, and Herbez, which is suited to experienced climbers but also offers some accessible routes.

Today, you’ll focus on refining your climbing technique, putting into practice the rope work, belay skills, and techniques you’ve learned.

Lunch will be a relaxed picnic on site, and as we head back to Gap, there might even be time to pause for a refreshing dip in the lake along the way!

Day 5 Multi Pitch route in Orpierre
Today, you’ll check out of your hotel, with the option to either leave your bags there to collect later or bring them along in the minibus for a quick return to Gap (where your guide can drop you off directly at the station).

Your final day is set to be an unforgettable climax—a big multi-pitch climb on Orpierre’s iconic cliffs. After days of honing your skills, today offers the chance to put everything into practice on a long, sustained route that will test your endurance, technique, and rope skills.

With a ratio of four climbers per guide, you’ll climb in pairs, supported by the guide who will help select a route suited to your ability and the conditions. Throughout the climb, your guide will ensure you’re handling your rope work efficiently and safely, with an emphasis on smooth rope management, effective communication between climbers, and seamless belay transitions.

Reaching the top, you’ll be rewarded with a profound sense of achievement and breathtaking panoramic views. A picnic lunch at the summit will make the most of this incredible vantage point.

It’s a fitting finale to an epic climbing adventure, equipping you with new skills, boosted confidence, and lasting memories.

After the climb, we’ll descend and return to Gap by around 16:00. If you’d like to stay an extra night in Gap, just let us know when booking, and we can arrange this for you.