An unsettled forecast led to much deliberation over guidebooks, Google Maps and various weather apps. Throwing all the data into the melting pot we ended up with a Plan A to head out of the mountains towards the coast to this crag near La Bisbal de Penedes, deep in Catalunya wine territory. The clincher was the name of the sector – Placa del Sol.

This turned out to be a fine looking isolated buttress high on the hillside with about 20 routes from IV to 7a – something for everyone, and even the promised sunshine!

We certainly surprised the bunch of half a dozen locals who were enjoying the peace and tranquility of this out of the way spot – I can’t imagine it often sees a dozen Brits rocking up. Space at the base of the crag was at a premium. 

Here’s Guy on 3 de 9

Charlie on Calenta y Bruta and Helen on El Temps s’en Riura…

Sadly, the 40% chance of a shower at 4pm turned into a 100% actuality of rain at 3pm and curtailed an otherwise enjoyable day. 

Back at the ranch, the teams that had stayed locally at Siurana and Villanova de Prades reported no interruption in play due to rain and a fistful of routes (commendably without too much smugness!) Then we settled down for a team paella and a beer.