When it comes to sport climbing, there is no place on this planet like Spain. It is endless. Northern Catalunya, on the southern edge of the Pyrenees, is particularly stunning in the springtime, when the abundant sunshine encourages the bloom. It’s quiet, too, with very few climbers in the area. On our spring ‘23 trip we had the crags to ourselves most days.

Our Spring 2024 course will return to the Alt Urgell region of northwest Catalunya. This area contains over 1800 routes at 90+ sectors. It’s an incredible destination for the springtime, when the days are getting longer and everything is blooming. Air temps are still cool and there’s plenty in the shade and sun. Climbing style varies from vert technical, to steep tufa routes. There’s short and powerful and long endurance climbs to satisfy everyone.

This program will take full advantage of the tremendous amount of rest day activities to be found in the area.

course HIGHLIGHTS

  • 1-month program focusing on performance sport climbing: onsighting, redpointing, strategy, route reading, and many other tools to help deliver success and growth as a climber.

  • Visit some of Catalunya’s most significant cultural sites.

  • Journalism projects include: blogging, photography, creative writing, and other media opportunities.

  • Learn budgeting, logistics, and the other details necessary to survive in Europe and climb your best.

  • Develop solid judgement with consistent emphasis placed on safe procedure, risk management, and accident prevention. Learn site-specific first aid and basic rescue/evacuation scenarios.

  • Opportunities to give back to the local communities with trail work, crag cleanups, and other service events.

course overview

Performance focus: Single pitch sport climbing

Duration: 30 days

2024 course dates: April 2 - May 2

Locations: Catalunya, Spain

Tuition: $5750

Ages: 18-23

Max group size: 8

Coach to athlete ratio: 4:1

Starting/ending location: Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain.

Accommodations: Apartment/housing near climbing crags.

Transportation: Rental car/van

Staff: alpha climbing founder Aaron Hjelt and more mentors as needed.