Our 2024 fall program will visit Manikia and Kalymnos for a 30-day course.

2024 course HIGHLIGHTS:

Performance sport climbing focus - includes emphasis on onsight/flash, as well as some projecting.
Climb at some of the best crags in Greece: Manikia - a recently developed area north of Athens, and Kalymnos, one of Europe’s sport climbing paradises.
Specific athletic focus on establishing personal best redpoint, onsight, and flash grades.
Flexible itinerary allows you to climb when conditions are best; not just forced by trip dates.
Foreign language immersion presents the daily opportunity to practice and learn.
Consistent cross-training and injury prevention program, including hangboarding, yoga, and cardio.
Visits to some of the most significant cultural sites in Europe.
Optional journalism projects including photography & blogging.
Learn budgeting, logistics, and the other details necessary to thrive in Europe and climb your best.
Develop solid judgement with consistent emphasis placed on safe procedure, risk management, and accident prevention. Develop competency in first aid and basic rescue/evacuation scenarios.
Integrated mentorship provides valuable skills and training for gym-team coaches and future guides.

Gap year mission & philosophy

Frequently asked questions

application page

CLIMBING

The Mediterranean is surrounded by limestone, especially in southern Europe. There are well over 200,000 sport climbs within an area the size of the western United States. It is simply an endless amount. With a year-round climbing availability, Southern Europe is a must on any serious climber’s wish list. The variety and quality will offer you opportunities to perform in ways you’ve never experienced.

ATHLETICS

Our gap year programs are specifically designed for young-adult athletes with a competition and/or significant gym training background. The primary mission of the course is learn what it takes to succeed at your limit, whether this be onsight/flash attempt, or projecting. We will spend effort on each, on varied steepness and length of climb. As an athlete, you will be challenged to confront your weaknesses, but ultimately, it will be up to you to set goals and put in the work. You will have flexibility in choosing what to invest into, and what to walk away from. Furthermore, you’ll gain tremendous insight in what it takes to be an athlete as an adult, away from the structure of a gym or team. These are lessons that will serve you as an active and healthy human for the rest of your life!

CULTURE

The major climbing areas of Europe tend to be in rural areas. These allow us, as travelers, to get off the beaten path to see life outside of the major cities and tourist areas. We’ll learn from the tradition and pride of the families who have inhabited these areas for generations.