Fontainebleau rock climbing, Rock climbing area in Fontainebleau Forest, France
Fontainebleau is a climbing area with thousands of sandstone boulders scattered throughout a dense forest across roughly 15 different zones. Each sector offers its own collection of routes suited to various climbing styles and skill levels.
French climbers began using the area as a training ground in the 19th century to develop their skills. The first official guidebook appeared in 1945 and helped document the routes and establish standards for the location.
The climbing community established a grading system here that became the standard for assessing difficulty at climbing areas around the world. Visitors encounter climbers of all abilities who practice and share this tradition together.
Colored markings on the ground guide you through the area, with each color indicating a difficulty level from white for beginners to black for advanced climbers. Take time to find routes that match your ability before you start climbing.
The sandstone blocks formed millions of years ago during the Oligocene period and have a specific structure that demands precise footwork. This geological feature makes climbing here quite different from other areas.
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