The BIG 5

The Big 5 is the best of the Costa Blanca BIG itineraries, the cream of the crop, all in one week's adventure holiday. We've tried and tested these BIG days and compiled what is probably the best fun packed mountaineering week in the Costa Blanca.

5 pitch ascent of Toix West

Day 1 is taken up with technical skills for multi-pitch climbing, abseiling and protected movment on steep ground - including a 5 pitch ascent of Toix West with ridge traverse and 50m abseil finish. The ascent is the one madatory route of the Big 5.

The remaining options are -

Penon de Ifach 1,100 feet /332m

One of the Pillars of Hercules which rise out of the sea by Calpe is a landmark of the Costa Blanca. Offers a variety of exciting routes between 7 and 10 pitches in length.

Sierra De Bernia Ridge

Sometimes called a mini Cuillin of Skye. Offers a classic alpine day with scrambling, technical climbing, abseiling and traversing from the East to West summits with stunning views.

The Muscarat Gorge

An impressive gash that slices through the coastal road routes between Benidorm and Calpe. From the the old bridge one can ascend the classic Llobert/Bertomeu route climbed in 7 or 8 pitches, followed by an airy traverse to reach the descent path back to the start.

The Puig Compana

The impressive mountain which rises 4,639 feet/1,406m above the town of Finestrat. This classical looking mountain offers the climber and mountaineer everything except snow and ice routes. The Espolon Central is a beautiful 14 pitch alpine day. While not technically difficult, it calls for good route finding skills, slick rope work and quick smooth climbing for a long period. The traverse off is an adventure in itself!

The Barranco del Inferno Gorge

Located in the beautiful Vall de Laguart. This dry gorge offers a descent of endless excitement. Normally dry, no running water, there are many large pots scoured out by the raging flash floods which power through during periods of heavy rain. If these pots are full of water, your guide will amaze you with his rope tricks to keep you dry.

Note. This trip is not undertaken immediatetly after or during periods of rain (fortunately something not too often experienced on the Costa Blanca).

Montana Benicadell

This mountain has a magnificent ridge that curves its way from the lowest point of the mountain to the very summit. Known locally as La Cresta del Benicadell, this alpine ridge is a classic. Easy scrambling section blocked by technical climbing pitches all the way to the summit. From the summit, a pathway leads you back to your car in just over an hour. A wonderful day out!

We keep the ratio to a max of 2:1 so you have the best value of service available and this ratio also allows the holiday to be tailored to individual requirements and aspirations. We will team you up with a British instructor or guide who has extensive experience in the area and specific knowledge of these routes, giving a safe, enjoyable and unforgettable experience. You will also be learning skills throughout the week that will progress your personal development and ability at whatever pace you like.

• "David was fantastic - he worked hard to make us feel confident about our climbing. He made us all laugh and was a great, kind instructor and very intuitive about our moods! Thanks! " Sally North 2011-10-27