I might go over to Europe for spring break and I was wondering about moderate sport climbing near London or Paris. By "moderate", I mean in the 5.5-5.6 range. (I will be climbing with a newer climber). 1 pitch max length.

There is so much info on the web it would take too long for me to sort it all out, but if you have a good link, share it!

Thanks in advance, --Tim

I don't know about London but if you're around Paris don't miss Fontainebleau. There's actually lots of moderate climbing there and the boulders in the woods are enchanting. Nice sandy landings. The white parcours (been years ago, I think they were white) are easy to moderate and doable for a beginner - a great place to learn the fundamentals of climbing, movement is the essence of the sport and the 'bleau is the "Laboratory of Movement."

The Bleau is a quick hop from Paris, right nearby. If you go further afield in France you cannot go wrong. The limestone there is amazing.

Saawweeeeeeeeet!!! It turns out that I am going to Frankenjura to do some <gasp> guided sport climbing!

Isn't that what parents are for? Yeah, it's actually a family vacation that includes sightseeing and hiking etc... But, we are climbing so it fine with me!

yeah! say "hello" to Chasin the Trane for me...

The Frankenjura rules. In its own way, of course- bier gardens right next to most of the cliffs.

You'll have a great time, for sure!

Guided sport climbing?
That should take the guesswork out of routefinding.

OK, we are leaving on friday. Unfortunately it turns out that the guide sorta backed out on us (), but we still have an opportunity to get another guide.

My question is: Do we really need a guide? Does anyone that know the area reccomend going there for a day trip without a guide?

most of the Frankenjura areas have almost nothing under 5.10... but if you go to the areas around Bamberg (Schesslitz and Wurgau) there are a few easier climbs. Treunitzer Wand has some German grade 5's that are fun. Katzenbuckel is a nice area that has some easy stuff too.

Definitely worth going without a guide.

And don't miss the Huebner - Brau pub in Steinfeld. A real cozy place with the best & freshest beer around...