Climbing
Every hold is a decision. Every move is a step toward something deeper -balance, grit, silence, or freedom.
In Le Marche, climbing doesn’t just take you higher. It takes you closer to who you are.
Climbing is more than a sport - it’s a way to move with the land, to test your limits among limestone cliffs and silent ridgelines. From sea-sprayed crags to rugged mountain walls, the region offers year-round routes for all levels of climbers.
Spring and autumn bring ideal conditions - mild air, firm grip, and endless views. The coast stays crisp with salt and wind; the mountains breathe with pine and stone. Whatever the season, there’s always a line to follow upward.
How to
Essential gear, thoughtfully chosen
Climbing demands respect - for the stone, the weather, and yourself. Pack for performance, not for show:
- Shoes: Soft soles grip smooth rock; stiff soles tackle the rougher limestone faces.
- Helmet: Non-negotiable - protection from loose rock and unexpected falls.
- Harness: Fit matters. Choose comfort and freedom of movement.
- Rope: Use dynamic ropes; shorter for sport routes, longer for multi-pitch climbs.
- Chalk & bag: Keep hands dry on humid or sun-drenched days.
Prepare with intention. The mountain rewards those who move mindfully.
Some of the best crags in the region
Furlo Crag
Located in the striking Furlo Gorge, Furlo Crag rises along the limestone cliffs of Mount Pietralata (889 m) and Mount Paganuccio (976 m). The rock is compact, high-quality limestone featuring vertical faces with occasional overhangs. Expect technical climbing on slabs, pockets, crimps, and cracks.
- Grades: 4b to 7c
- Routes: 80+
- Exposure: East-southeast
- Altitude: 400 m
- Best seasons: best in spring and autumn; shaded lines possible in summer
- Access: ~5 minutes approach
- Distance: 13 km (~15 min)
Rio Vitoschio Crag
Nestled in the scenic Rio Vitoschio Gorge along the trail to Monte Nerone, this crag is known for its slightly overhanging, sculpted limestone walls. The rock offers a wide variety of holds—small crimps on the vertical lines and larger pockets and tufas on steeper routes. Climbing here demands technical movement and sustained effort, though more dynamic and athletic climbs are also available.
It's one of the most popular summer destinations due to its favorable exposure, cooling stream with waterfalls, and the natural ventilation of the gorge. The Belvedere sector, facing south, is best climbed in autumn, spring, and winter.
- Style: Sustained and technical, with dynamic options on overhangs
- Grades: Wide range, with strong options from 6a to 8a
- Routes: 70+
- Exposure: Mostly north/northeast; Belvedere sector is south-facing
- Altitude: 500 m
- Best seasons: Summer ideal; spring and autumn possible; Belvedere sector best outside summer
- Access: ~3 minutes
- Distance: 39 km (~35 min)
Fosso dell’Eremo Crag
Tucked into a peaceful valley named after a historic hermitage, Fosso dell’Eremo is a charming and well-shaded climbing destination. The limestone cliffs rise alongside a small stream, offering a variety of climbing styles on high-quality rock—vertical slabs, gently overhanging faces, and powerful roofs. The crag now features over 70 routes. The Fiume sector offers accessible climbs, while more advanced lines can be found on the Muro Giallo and Grottone walls. The sculpted limestone provides an array of holds: pockets, tufas, crimps, and cracks.
- Style: Slabs, vertical walls, overhangs, and roofs
- Grades: Solid spread from 6a to 8a
- Routes: 70+
- Exposure: Mostly shaded; some sectors get sun in cooler months
- Altitude: 350 m
- Best seasons: Summer, spring, and autumn
- Access: ~2 minutes
- Distance: 35 km (~30 min)
L’Arena Crag
A recently developed crag, L’Arena offers a collection of medium to hard routes on compact limestone, characterized by technical climbing on small edges and crimps. The climbs are of medium length and require precision and finger strength.
Thanks to its southeast exposure and protection from wind, it’s an excellent destination in spring, autumn, and even winter—as long as the rock is dry. A small sheltered cave at the base offers cover in case of light rain. While the crag has a comfortable base for climbers, it’s not ideal for children due to terrain and access.
- Style: Technical face climbing on crimps
- Grades: 6a to 8a
- Routes: 20+
- Exposure: Southeast
- Altitude: 400 m
- Best seasons: Spring, autumn, winter
- Access: ~30 minutes
- Distance: 30 km (~30 min)
Gola di Frasassi & Gola della Rossa
A historic climbing region known since 1932, the Gola di Frasassi and Gola della Rossa area has long been a training ground for generations of Marche-based climbers and alpinists. With the rise of sport climbing, it has evolved into one of the region’s most important climbing hubs. Today, it features over 500 routes, including single-pitch climbs, boulders, multi-pitch routes, and traditional alpine-style lines.
A notable addition is the Sulfuria Crag, a newer sector facing east. It currently offers 34 routes from 4a to 7c+/8a, with a few lines still awaiting first ascents.
- Style: Sport, alpine, and bouldering
- Grades: 4a to 8a+
- Routes: 50+
- Exposure: East
- Altitude: 250 m
- Best seasons: Spring, summer and autumn
- Access: ~20 minutes approach
- Distance: 92 km (~1 hours)
Rosara Crag
Rosara features a striking 150-meter stretch of red-orange travertine cliff, typical of the area, rising up to 30 meters in height. The climbing here is highly varied—ranging from gentle slabs to steep overhangs, with the occasional corner or chimney that retains a distinct alpine flavor. Old pitons can still be spotted, echoing the crag’s roots as an adventure playground and training ground for local climbers heading to the Sibillini or Gran Sasso.
- Style: Slabs, overhangs, dihedrals, and classic lines
- Grades: Mostly from 4c to 7a, with solid options both below and above 6a
- Routes: 100+
- Exposure: Mixed; partial sun
- Altitude: 400 m
- Best seasons: Spring and autumn; some routes climbable in winter and summer depending on conditions
- Access: ~5 minutes approach
- Distance: 196 km (~2 hours)
