Rock Climbing, Canyoning, and Via Ferrata in Valencia and Castellon, Spain
Rock Climbing, Canyoning, and Via Ferrata in Valencia and Castellon, Spain
Rock Climbing, Canyoning, and Via Ferrata in Valencia and Castellon, Spain. In May 2018, I was lucky enough to take a couple out for a few days of multi-adventure activities in Mediterranean Spain. We spent the time in the provinces of Valencia and Castellon. Two powerhouse provinces in terms of outdoor adventure. Both are actually relatively unknown for their outdoor adventure potential. Alicante, the southern province of the Community of Valencia gets most of the attention in this region but Valencia and Castellon also pack a punch. The best thing about these two provinces is that once you leave the cities and go inland you are virtually alone. You can get away from the crowds and really have some exciting and fun outdoor adventures in semi wilderness areas.
Via Ferrata in Valencia
The first day we set out in the province of Valencia for some via ferrata and canyoning. There are several areas in Valencia where you can encounter these two activities relatively close to each other. We chose one of these areas and then proceeded with the activities. It was the first time embarking in either of these activities for both of them. They picked it up quickly and soon realized how fun it was to climb a via ferrata. There was some exposure on this ferrata and as you gain altitude, that exposure begins to creep into your mind a bit. Not a problem as we continue well-protected and took breaks when they were available. We took pictures, had some laughs, and really enjoyed the experience.
Canyoning in Valencia
After finishing the via ferrata we proceeded to descend a dry canyon. Another first experience for them and like most people, they were a bit reluctant to lean back and start the first rappel. It doesn't feel natural to lean back into the empty void below, hanging on a rope and not understanding how the anchor is set and if this thin rope is going to hold your life! However, after a clear and concise explanation of all the material and the movements that we needed to make in order to descend they were able to successfully complete the first rappel. We even practiced rappelling at the top of the canyon before we entered. And then we were off on our canyoning adventure and with gusto!
Rock Climbing and Canyoning in Castellon
The next day we did some rock climbing. Again, this was a new activity for both of them so there was some basic instruction and then we gave it a go. Climbing is a great mental and physical exercise. You have to be very in the moment and that's one of the best things about it. Just like all of these outdoor adventures, you must be present. So forget about all of your worries and engage yourself in the moment. After climbing in the morning we descended another canyon in the afternoon. This day was spent in the province of Castellon.
Castellon differs from Valencia and the change in vegetation was apparent during our day. This also helps to increase your awareness of your surroundings. So many different stimuli during a two day active vacation. That's one of the best parts about adventure in foreign lands. If you're interested in some outdoor adventures and/or mountain guiding activities in Spain, contact us to inquire about your own customized active vacation.