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European Climbing Trips with Rockbusters Press Release

© Rockbusters

Andrew Douglas, a Rockbusters regular from Switzerland, gives his account of why Rockbusters trips are so special.

Rockbusters trips have appealed to the climber within me for a long time. I'd heard good things about their fully immersive climbing camps at the best crags around Europe.

Having read the blurb I was interested to see how the reality measured up. And I have to say, I wasn't disappointed. I quickly realised it's much more than just a climbing holiday. Rockbusters provide a little slice of the climbing lifestyle.

Why Rockbusters are different

Climbing with Rockbusters is different from other trips I've been on. You instantly get the feeling it's run by climbers, for climbers. You're not a number on a spreadsheet helping them hit a target, with Rockbusters you can tell that they want to share their passion for climbing.

This is because Rockbusters are essentially a collective of climbing bums who want to permanently live the climbing life. They are (of course) highly qualified fully insured instructors, and have developed a relaxed but professional climbing operation that complements their lifestyle.

Everything happens when it's supposed to, and the communication is excellent and in an impressive array of languages. I always knew what was going on and when, and felt 100% safe under their guidance.

Although a well run operation, you can tell it's time at the crag that the Rockbusters team live for. They aren't weekend warriors or business people that climb – climbing is in their blood and is the driving force behind everything they do.

Trips to suit every ability level

Rockbusters offer climbing suitable for everyone from complete novices, to specialist camps for highly experienced climbers, and girls-only camps. A highlight is their epic European Climbing Road Trip which visits top crags in France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Czech Republic and Austria throughout the summer.

Many trips are run at some of the world's best climbing spots in Spain, which Rockbusters know inside out. There's also a whole bunch of special trips like DWS Mallorca, bouldering at Albarracin and high alpine in Chamonix.

Along the way they've become friends with some of the world's best climbers, including Adam Ondra, Patxi Usobiaga, Daila Ojeda, Klemen Becan and Hazel Findlay. Throughout the year these pros run Rockbuster courses to pass on their expertise.

Check out the upcoming Rockbusters trips here.

What to expect at the crag

The climbing sessions themselves are pretty relaxed. There's an encouraging atmosphere that feels effortless, like they really want you to improve and enjoy yourself. No one feels intimidated or left out – you climb as best you can and there's always instructors on hand to offer technical advice and enthusiastic support.

They try and keep the theory side of things to a minimum, with 'learning through doing' key to their style. While they don't just send you up crags that you're not ready for, they'll encourage you to improve and keep pushing yourself. I rapidly progressed way beyond my expectations – as do most people.

Whether you want to work on trad and multi-pitch skills, learn how to lead, get to grips with overhangs, develop onsight and redpointing skills, or work on anything else, Rockbusters can help. There's always more than one guide, so the group can split to climb at different ability levels without leaving anyone behind.

The complete climbing experience

After a tough day on the face, you all head back to camp which is normally a short walk away. Unlike other climbing holidays I've been on the fun doesn't end when you leave the crag.

The campsite has a great vibe, with everyone hanging out and no egos flying around. As a single climber I instantly felt welcomed as part of the crew, and saw the same welcome for everyone from beginner to expert.

I recommend the communal evening meals for €15 per night, it's tasty and filling food plus a relaxing time with your fellow climbers. Breakfast and lunch are up to you, but you'll visit a supermarket or two to stock up on essentials.

Pretty much everything else is included. When I arrived I was met by the Rockbusters bus (you can't miss it) and all the climbing gear, accommodation (tents, cooking gear etc) and transfers are part of the package. Basically, book some flights, bring your climbing shoes, sleeping bag and suitable clothing and the rest is taken care of.

Choose the climbing life

Rockbusters grew out of a love for the climbing life. They don't provide luxurious holidays with a few climbing sessions thrown in, but a taste of a climber's lifestyle. You'll live and breathe crag, quickly becoming part of the Rockbusters crew. But be warned once you're in, you won't want to go home.

To get your own slice of the climbing lifestyle visit: www.rockbusters.net, or contact the team by phone: +34 678 243 573 or email: info@rockbusters.net

For more information Rockbusters



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