Portfolio Category: Italy

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is an Italian region dominated by Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano. This mountainous landscape, with peaks exceeding 2,000 meters and lush green vegetation, attracts outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.

Climbing opportunities abound along the northern and eastern coastlines, with San Vito lo Capo emerging as a renowned climbing destination. This picturesque town boasts a captivating coastline adorned with sun-drenched yellow, orange, and grey cliffs, offering a diverse array of climbing challenges.

While San Vito lo Capo attracts numerous tourists during the summer months, it offers a particularly appealing destination for climbers during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) and even during the winter months, providing a welcome escape from the cold European winters with opportunities for sun-drenched climbing on excellent rock.

Sicily, being a large island, offers diverse climbing conditions across its vast terrain.

San Vito Lo Capo: This coastal town boasts stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs, providing excellent climbing opportunities. The region enjoys a favorable climbing season from early spring to late autumn, with mild temperatures and ample sunshine. This area boasts over 1300 single-pitch climbs on exceptional, compact limestone rock in vibrant hues of orange, yellow, and grey. Easy access to crags and flat ground suitable for children and camping.

Overall, San Vito Lo Capo offers a fantastic climbing destination with a diverse range of routes and a generally favorable climate, making it an attractive option for climbers throughout the year.

Highlights of Climbing in San Vito Lo Capo:

• Excellent climbing opportunities
• Mild temperatures during the winter
• Gorgeous beaches
• Suitable for families with children
• Wind: Sicily is known for its winds, so be prepared for potential wind gusts and seek sheltered areas when necessary.

San Vito Lo Capo is a charming coastal town nestled on the northwestern tip of Sicily. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and boasting a dramatic coastline with pristine beaches, it offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and adventure.

**While summer attracts throngs of tourists, the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) and even mild winter months present ideal conditions for climbers seeking sunshine and solitude. With hundreds of climbing routes on the impressive cliffs, San Vito Lo Capo offers a unique climbing experience.

Don't miss the lively Saturday market for fresh local produce. While some restaurants and shops may be closed during the off-season, the town still offers a relaxed and authentic atmosphere.

Day 1: Arrival and Introduction

• Morning: Arrive at the destination and settle in.
• Afternoon: Brief presentation of the program, getting to know the group, and discussing your wishes and goals for the climbing week.

Day 2: Getting Comfortable and Basics

• Familiarization with the rock and climbing style.
• Checking and learning safety knots (if necessary).
• Reviewing proper belaying techniques.
• Climbing easier routes with a focus on improving foot techniques for better clipping positions.

Day 3: Redpoint Climbing and Mental Training

• Step-by-step learning of the redpoint climbing approach for more demanding routes.
• Visualization exercises to prepare for redpoint projects as part of mental coaching.
• Falling practice to build confidence and improve performance on working routes.
• Developing a growth mindset for success and overcoming challenges.

Day 4: On-Sight Climbing

• Learning the on-sight approach for challenging goals.
• Training to read the rock, find suitable clipping positions, and climb with full commitment.
• Focusing on mental preparation and problem-solving during on-sight attempts.
• Practicing how to give 100% in each attempt.

Day 5: Rest Day and Light Activities

• Optional rest day to recharge, depending on group needs.
• Activities may include morning yoga, running, swimming, or light climbing in the afternoon.
• Unique exercises like climbing with no hands or fewer hands (on toprope) to improve efficiency and refine techniques in a fun way.

Day 6: Revisiting Redpoint Projects

• Returning to your redpoint project to test your mental and physical progress.
• Learning how to mentally prepare for sending projects with the right mindset.
• Understanding that the process, not just the outcome, should be the source of motivation.

Day 7: Fun and Relaxed Climbing

• A stress-free day where you choose what to climb.
• Focus on enjoyment—whether repeating projects, refining foot and hand techniques, mental coaching, or falling practice.
• Relaxing at the crag, climbing as much as you want, and celebrating your achievements from the week.