Avi

Naranjo De Bulnes, The Picos de Europa

‘Climbing for me has always been about the discovery of new places in excellent company, and I have always used guides to increase the chance of success in my ventures

This Picos trip was excellent. Paddy has obviously spent much time researching where to go, and climbing the routes. His friend Simon Loughlin is his ace card. A soft spoken Irisher who has once cycled to Sri Lanka knows the region like the back of his hand, and provided excellent wet weather activities such as a caving and good eating recommendations.

The climbing was great. Solid rock. And every pitch pushed our grades. Paddy’s exploratory nerve was tested on a 9 pitch epic which saw me fall off an overhanging E1 pitch ( in my deference, the QuickDraw pulled me off, and sorry Paddy for leaving it there) which was the highlight of the trip for me.

The hiking and ticking off the enigmatic south face of the Naranjo de Bulnes was awesome, and ending the week climbing on the beach was a nice touch ( again thanks Simon for the recommendation)

As part of my travels, I try not go back to places twice. But I might have to take exception to the Picos de Europa to sample some of the cycling, mountain biking, canyoning, and even more climbing

Thanks for a great trip! Worth every penny!’