Introductory climbing and abseiling in Patones

The limestone walls of Patones de Abajo are one of the classic climbing schools near Madrid, and the Sierra Norte tourism website lists introductory sessions, guided climbs and training in the municipality. For a first time on rock, PlanetSport Multiaventura, a company from Talamanca de Jarama, organises its introductory climbing and abseiling session here.

What the session is like

It is an introductory, level 1 activity, designed for any age and fitness. It is 4 hours on rock starting at 10:00: the guide explains the equipment, teaches the basic techniques of progression and belaying and it finishes with an abseil, coming down the rope. The company runs it at Patones de Abajo and also at Torrelodones; when booking you choose the place and date.

It includes:

• Climbing guide.
• Technical equipment: harness, rope, slings, helmet, figure-of-eight and carabiners.
• Civil liability and accident insurance.
• Photo report.

Transport can be added as an extra, at additional cost.

Price, group and age

PlanetSport publishes a price of €45 per person (€55 without the offer) and €40 per person for groups of 10 or more. The minimum group is 4 people. Children from 6 years old can take part, accompanied by an adult. Book on its website, with a date or without, paying a deposit, or by phone and WhatsApp on 699 361 161. The cancellation conditions are on its website.

The Sierra Norte tourist office also publishes a short 2-hour climbing course for €35, for those who want something briefer.

What to bring

• Trainers or hiking boots. Climbing shoes are optional: if you do not have any, they are not needed.
• Stretchy clothing suited to the season.
• Small rucksack, 20 to 30 litres.
• Sun cream and sunglasses.
• Water, energy bars and food.

In summer the limestone heats up and the morning is the best time; spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons for climbing at Patones.

Getting there

Patones de Abajo is an hour from Madrid by the A-1 to exit 50, the N-320 towards Torrelaguna and the M-102. There is free parking in the village, and ALSA lines 197 and 197A stop at Patones. The exact meeting point is given by the company when confirming the booking.

What to combine

After the climb, go up for lunch at Patones de Arriba, 800 metres along the Barranco path or on the weekend shuttle. There are El Bodegón de Patones, El Rey de Patones and Las Eras. In the afternoon, the Pontón de la Oliva dam is ten minutes by car.