Climbing in Manikia – All The Universe sector – Lower Valley, Evia

On July 11, 2023August 31, 2025 By Olympus MountaineeringIn ClimbingLeave a comment

In the previous post, I shared my awesome climbing adventures at the Pehnidia sector in Vrysi, Evia. Now, get ready for another exciting crag in the Manikia area: All The Universe, located in the Lower Valley.

Join me on this thrilling climbing journey as we immerse ourselves in breathtaking scenery and tackle exhilarating routes. Whether you’re a seasoned climber hungry for a challenge or a beginner looking to explore this picturesque spot, All The Universe has got something for everyone.

With a wide variety of routes to choose from, you can push your limits, discover new skills, enjoy stunning views towards the canyon.

So, gear up and let’s dive into the adventure at All The Universe in the Lower Valley area.

Climbing_Manikia_Lower_Valley_Evia_All_The_Universe_Sector_05 — All The Universe Crag

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Climbing in Manikia – Rainbow sector – Lower Valley, Evia

On June 30, 2023August 22, 2025 By Olympus MountaineeringIn Climbing3 Comments

In a previous post, I enthralled you with accounts of conquering the untamed cliffs of the renowned Pehnidia sector in Vrysi, Evia. Fear not, for the adrenaline-fueled odyssey continues as we venture forth to the stunning Rainbow sector, nestled amidst the majestic domain of the Manikia area.

So, brace yourselves for an electrifying journey that will ignite your spirits and ignite your sense of wonder! Imagine immersing yourself in the breathtaking grandeur of nature, where awe-inspiring panoramas unfold before your very eyes.

The Rainbow sector is a picturesque haven, boasting magnificent rock formations arranged in an amphitheatrical shape. It warmly embraces all who are in pursuit of the ultimate challenge, catering to both seasoned daredevils and curious novices yearning to unearth its hidden treasures.

Prepare to indulge in an extraordinary array of climbing delights, as Rainbow offers a plethora of routes that will leave you breathless with anticipation.

So gather your gear, secure your harness, and embark on a thrilling adventure that awaits you at Rainbow, nestled within the enchanting Lower Valley area.

Climbing_Manikia_Lower_Valley_Rainbow_Sector_Evia_02 — View towards the canyon from the Parking spot

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Climbing in Manikia – Pehnidia Sector – Vrysi, Evia

On June 22, 2023August 23, 2025 By Olympus MountaineeringIn Climbing4 Comments

Nestled in the heart of Greece‘s picturesque island of Evia, the captivating village of Manikia has emerged as a haven for rock climbing enthusiasts. With its unique gorge, Manikiatis river, limestone formations and a growing number of climbing routes, this area has captured the attention of both local and international climbers. In this blog post, I will delve into the history, approach, sectors, and overall experience of climbing in Manikia, Evia.

Climbing_Manikia_Vrisi_Evia_Pehnidia_Sector_01 — Beautiful rock formation

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Climbing in Pleiades Crag – Katafyki Ravine – Ermioni

On June 13, 2023August 18, 2023 By Olympus MountaineeringIn Climbing, Mountaineering general3 Comments

With this post we invite you to embark on an extraordinary expedition through the captivating Katafyki Ravine in Ermioni, Greece. Within this majestic setting, we will uncover the exhilarating challenges and natural wonders that await you on three remarkable multi-pitch climbing routes: Maia, Taygete, and Alcyone.

Each ascent presents its own distinct characteristics, offering a diverse range of difficulties and rewards. Prepare yourself for an awe-inspiring journey as we delve into the details of these unforgettable routes.

Maia_Multi_Pitch_Katafyki_Ermioni_33 — View of Pleiades crag

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Alcyone – 4 pitches, 6a 100 m. | Multi Pitch Climb in Pleiades Crag – Katafyki Ravine – Ermioni

On May 30, 2023August 23, 2025 By Olympus MountaineeringIn Climbing, Mountaineering general10 Comments

The Pleiades crag is a magnificent formation in the heavens, named after the seven shining stars that make up the Taurus constellation. These stars, known as the Pleiades sisters, were transformed into celestial bodies by the divine hand of Zeus, according to mythology.

From a climber’s perspective, the Pleiades crag represents a unique challenge and an opportunity for adventure. The crag is said to be a gateway to the heavens, a place where mortals can access the realm of the gods. But getting there is no easy feat.

The path to the Pleiades crag is treacherous and requires a high level of skill and experience. The terrain is rugged, with steep cliffs and sharp rocks.

Alcyone_Pleiades_Crag_Katafyki_Ermionida_14 — Getting ready to climb the first overhang.

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Climbing in Ermionida, Argolis (Greece) Guidebook Edition 2023

On May 23, 2023September 14, 2025 By Olympus MountaineeringIn Climbing14 Comments

NOTICE: A new Climbing in Ermionida Guidebook (edition 2025) is published
You can find the updated version here.

In the early 2000s, a climbing revolution took place in Ermionida, East Peloponnese, when the esteemed British climber, Jim Titt, and the German Inge Zaczek, dedicated a significant amount of time, resources, and effort to equip over 200 routes on the exceptional limestone rocks in the area using stainless steel bolts. The climbing community remains grateful for their contributions towards the development of sport climbing in the region.

Fast forward to 2021, Climb Ermionida (the local climbing community) with the invaluable aid and support of the Municipality of Ermionida and the Tripolis Mountaineering Club, undertook essential maintenance works on various crags and replaced several anchors with high-quality, certified materials.

Ermionida_Guidebook_main_2023_Cover_900 — Climbing in Ermionida Guidebook edition 2023

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My Essential Climbing Gear for 2023: Current Favourites

On May 11, 2023August 23, 2025 By Olympus MountaineeringIn Gear Review5 Comments

As an outdoor enthusiast and a climber, I’m constantly on the lookout for the latest and greatest climbing gear to help me push my limits and elevate my performance. Over the years, I’ve tried out several pieces of gear, and through trial and error, I’ve found the gear that works best for me. Lately, I’ve been receiving a lot of emails and comments from fellow climbers asking me about my personal choices for climbing gear. So, I decided to write this post and share my favourite pieces of climbing gear that I’m currently using in 2023. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, I hope that my personal recommendations will help you make informed decisions about the gear you choose to use on your next climb.

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Climbing in SunCastle – Ermionida, Argolis | Greece

On May 5, 2023August 23, 2025 By Olympus MountaineeringIn Climbing8 Comments

If you’re looking for a new climbing destination, the recently developed SunCastle Crag between the town of Ermioni and Iliokastro may be just the place for you. With its high-quality rock formations and diverse range of routes, this new sport climbing crag is quickly becoming a go-to destination for climbers of all skill levels. In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about SunCastle Crag, including access to the crag, what to expect when you visit, and more.

SunCastle_Crag_Climbing_Ermioni_03 — Route: Dragon’s Spine

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Climbing in Castle Thermisia (Kastro Thermisias) – Ermionida, Argolis (2023 Update)

On March 31, 2023August 24, 2025 By Olympus MountaineeringIn Climbing6 Comments

If you’re a climbing enthusiast looking for a breathtaking view, Castle Thermisia Crag is the place to be. Located in the Peloponnese region of Greece, this crag offers stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the sea. The rock formations are also incredibly diverse, making it an ideal spot for climbers of all skill levels.

The crag is located just a short drive from the city of Ermioni. This makes it easy to combine your climbing adventure with some sightseeing and relaxation in the area. In fact, you can even see surrounding areas such as Nafplio, Hydra, Spetses, Epidauros, Poros and Dokos.

There are several climbing routes available at Castle Thermisia Crag, ranging in difficulty from 5a to 8c+/9a. The majority of the routes are sport climbing routes, with well-maintained bolts and anchors for safety.

Climbing_Castle_Thermisia_Crag_01 — C. Vrochidis projecting Careless Corsair (project)

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PETZL Hirundos 2022 – Climbing Harness Review

On January 25, 2023September 1, 2025 By Olympus MountaineeringIn Gear Review7 Comments

Not very long time ago, I wanted to purchase a new harness in order to substitute my old -and loved- harness, the Mammut Ophir. In that time, I wanted to have an all around harness, with emphasis on trad and multi-pitch climbing and therefore I got the Petzl ADJAMA.

Although the Petzl ADJAMA is a great and very comfortable harness, due to the fact most of the days I spend them on sport climbing crags, I also got the new Hirundos model by Petzl.