| Varasova, climbing in Greece an extremely important rock climbing area |
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| Varasova, climbing in Greece an extremely important rock climbing area |
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Not far away from the estuary of river Evinos, the dominating Varasova rocks emerge right where the peaceful valley of Etoliko meets the sea. Plain beauty of the scenery, exceptional solidity of the rock, easy access and sea joys were the obvious advantages which have established Varasova, as one of the most important climbing areas in Greece. Varasova is a limestone massif near the sea, just opposite of Patra and has a height of 917 m. There are three summits of almost the same altitude. Varasova flanks, drop abruptly into the sea on the south and Southwest and this is the location of the most important walls, just between Vasiliki and Galatas villages. The limestone rocks of Varasova have earned a good reputation due to their Spupolitidy. "Hidden" holds and secure nut placements, make climbing in Varasova particularly enjoyable. Varasova: Rock climbing guidebook "Varasova Rock climbing guide" by Aris Theodoropoulos available from ALPINE CLUB OF AHARNES, 126 Filadelfias St., AHARNES, GREECE, tel. 2461528, Fax: 2469777 Rocks and climbing Routes in Varasova can be divided, more or less, into the following three categories:
Equipment general (for repeating the trad routes) Your rack should have the following pieces of gear:
Varasova is 240 km away from Athens. The location is 30 km away from Antirio. Turn left, before the bridge of Evinos river exactly on the junction for Galatas and Krioneri. Varasova, just above Krioneri village, is 6 km away from the junction. You can use the bus, departing from the Athens station, on Kifisos river and going to Mesolongi or Agrinio. Get off this bus at Evinohori and catch a taxi or a local bus to Varasova, for the 10 km ride. When to climb Climbing in Varasova is possible all year long, except of course when it's raining. Ideal seasons are spring (April to May) and fall (September to October). Accommodation Although climbers have been visited Varasova for more than 40 years, there aren't any accommodation facilities. Free camping is the usual way: the road leads in a small plateau with a layer of thick meadow, just between the rocks and the sea. Avoid camping close to the rocks for the fear of the, occasionally, falling rocks. Be also aware of the strong winds, which often sweep the crags. Many times we've been personally disappointed by the performance of our tentage. If you are looking for more luxury during your stay, you can rent a room in Krioneri or you can use a hotel in the town of Mesolongi. The newly built vacation buildings of Krioneri on the west, as well as a small but powerful small river, are easily obvious. Then, there is the small harbour with the fishing boats, Bratsos' tavern and two or three others shops which operate mostly during summer. If you venture a little further afield you will discover the old railway station, a faded image in poplar-trees. Galatas, the nearest village, is only 3 km away. There's a small store, a gas station and some interesting tavernas. The historical Mesolongi is only 10 km away and a visit there is a good idea. Upon your departure, don't forget to take away your garbage! Useful telephone numbers
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