Costiera

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Rock climbing in Trieste goes back a long way: generations of climbers have sped out to the nearby hills immediately after work to enjoy the limestone delights of Napoleonica, Val Rosandra and Costiera, and many, like Emilio Comici, have left their mark for others to enjoy and test their skill.

One of the most famous crags near Trieste is the Napoleonica; perched on a hill overlooking the city and its bay, this panorama is Italy's answer to Montecarlo.

Nearby Costiera is another small crag of considerable value: steep overhangs and fierce slabs combine above the water's edge to ensure a fantastic day out, before watching the sun go down and retreating to one of the many famous trattorie for a well-earned evening's meal.

Costiera is a fantastic sports crag with mainly single pitch routes. The climbing is varied and ranges from technical slabs to steep overhangs. The routes to the right of the natural tunnel are quiet and offer a spectacular view over the entire Gulf of Trieste. Small edges, pockets and tufas are the name of the game which, combined with seagulls overhead and a great panorama, make it well worth playing.

If you are after a combination of tradition and relax, testpieces and trattorie, then come to Trieste. She won't disappoint.

GETTING THERE

Trieste is situated in the extreme NE of Italy, on the border with Slovenia. Take the A4 Venice - Trieste motorway which finishes at Trieste. From the A4 motorway exit at Trieste and follow the coastal road. Park on the right in the layby after the obvious natural tunnel. Walk back to the tunnel, climb over the railings and continue down along the via ferrata to the crag (6 minutes from the car). Take care when walking down from the railings - a small lightweight rucksack is useful here.

THE CLIMBING

Highly technical edge climbing.

FOOD AND ACCOMODATION

Trieste is a bustling city with many places to eat out and lots to offer. Accommodation can be found easily. Contact the official tourist office under www.triestetourism.it, email: info@triestetourism.it - tel. +39 040 3478312

BIBLIOGRAPHY

"Arrampicare senza frontiere. Trieste - Litorale sloveno - Istria" by Sidarta Guides, 2003

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