If you’re kinda tired of walking, you should try doing it vertically- or as the experts call it: climbing! Rock climbing in Madrid is pretty popular, and the community of Madrid has plenty of cool outdoor climbing routes to offer. There are also plenty of climbing gyms in Madrid where you can do rope climbing (like sport, toprope, trad, etc) or bouldering (rope-free, closer to the ground).
Want more ideas for outdoor adventures near Madrid? Check out our other guides on outdoor activities near Madrid, like cycling, hiking, and more. And if you’re in the mood for a quick escape, don’t miss our list of the 7 most beautiful day trips from Madrid!
Rock Climbing for Dummies
Firstly, for those of you scrolling on this page with your hands already covered in chalk, looking to get to it asap, go ahead and skip this section. In the past couple of years, rock climbing, mainly bouldering, has seen a gigantic surge in popularity. However, we realise that not everyone will have the knowledge, resources or even connections to know where or how to start. Well, when it comes to connections, send us a message and we’ll have you added to our hiking/climbing group chat! Next, here’s a short summary on everything you should know before starting your first climb.
Important: In many countries, and usually also in Spain, you can’t just walk into a climbing gym or outdoor wall and belay someone without having proof of your skills. That means a belay permit, certification, or taking a test on the spot; it depends on the gym. Safety is taken seriously, and rightfully so.
Bouldering
Short, powerful and technical climbs without ropes, usually done on walls up to 4-5 meters high. Some people describe them as a ‘physical puzzle’. There are thick mats to catch your falls if you do it in a gym, but if you want to do it outside, you’re expected to bring your crash mat or face the consequences.
Top-rope climbing
A rope runs from your harness to an anchor at the top of the wall and back down to your belayer, the person controlling the rope and making sure you don’t hit the ground when you fall, but instead come to a soft stop in the air, giving you the space to grab the wall and continue the climb.
Lead climbing (or sport climbing)
This is more advanced. You clip your rope into protection points as you climb higher. It’s riskier and requires experience.
Trad climbing (traditional)
Mostly outdoors and involves placing your own gear into the rock. This is for seasoned climbers only as you have to choose your own route.
Outdoor Rock Climbing in Madrid
1. La Pedriza
60 km from Madrid
Just north of Madrid, in Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, La Pedriza is any climber’s wet dream. It’s one of the most iconic climbing spots in this part of Spain, and for good reason! You’ll find everything from rugged slabs to steep faces, cracks, and freestanding boulders. It’s great for both bouldering and roped climbing, although many of the sport routes aren’t super beginner-friendly. That said, if you’re okay with walking a bit between sectors, you can always find something at your level. The surrounding area is gorgeous too, with rivers and beautiful views, and should your forearms tap out early, there are also hiking trails all around. Just make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen; there’s not a lot of shade, and it can get really hot there! For more detailed information, tips and locations, you can buy a guide or check out this website.
Bouldering in Madrid: La Pedriza
- Garganta de la Camorza
- Bosque de Canto Cochino
- Las Dehesas crag
- La Ermita de Peña Sacra
Climbing in Madrid: La Pedriza
- El Yelmo
- El Hueso
- Canto Cochino
- La Sur Clásica del Pájaro
2. Pantones
60 km from Madrid
Patones is a limestone paradise and a popular sport climbing spot near Madrid. The walls are steep and the routes technical, with plenty of crimps, pockets, and overhangs. There are over 300 bolted lines here, so there’s something for most levels, though total beginners might find it a bit intimidating. Most sectors are south-facing, which makes it a great winter climbing spot, but blazing hot and brutal in summer. Short approaches, solid rock, and great views make it an easy favorite. Stop in Patones de Arriba for a cold beer or some tapas after your session.
Bouldering in Madrid: Patones
- Cañón de Uceda
- Barranco de Patones
- El Pontón de la Oliva
Climbing in Madrid: Patones
- Escuela de Patones
- Las Placas del Sol
- La Cara Oculta
- El Vivero
3. Peñalara
100 km from Madrid
Peñalara is the highest peak in the Sierra de Guadarrama and is better known for hiking, but it also offers some adventurous climbing. The routes are limited but spectacular; high mountain, exposed, and ideal for climbers with trad gear and good route-finding skills. The weather can shift fast, so this spot is better for experienced climbers looking for a unique objective close to Madrid. Snow sticks around into spring, so summer is the most stable season to climb here. Keep in mind, though, that you’re not allowed to use chalk here!
Climbing in Madrid: Peñalara
- Zabala Ridge
- Peñalara Northeast Face
- Laguna de los Pájaros
4. Zarzalejo
60 km from Madrid
At Zarzalejo, you can boulder a bunch of big boulders. It’s a granite bouldering area in the Sierra Oeste. It’s not massive, but the setting is super peaceful and the blocks are fun. You’ll climb among pine trees and rock formations that look straight out of a fairy tale. There are also a few bolted routes for those with a rope, but bouldering is definitely the highlight. Easy to access and not too crowded; perfect for a half-day trip or a quiet weekend.
5. El Vellón
50 km from Madrid
El Vellón is known for short, powerful sport climbs on sharp, pocketed limestone. It’s one of the closest decent crags to Madrid, which makes it popular year-round, especially for quick morning or evening sessions. The routes are often steep and bouldery, and skin tends to suffer fast, but if you’re into dynamic, technical movement, this place delivers. There are also some scattered boulders for a little rope-free fun, but it’s mainly for sport climbing
6. La Cabrera
60 km from Madrid
Towering above the A1 highway, Pico de la Miel in La Cabrera is hard to miss. It rises about 200–300 meters, offering long, classic routes that are perfect for climbers looking for a full day on the wall. Most routes are traditional and require good gear placement skills, but the exposure and mountain feel are worth it. Around the base, you’ll find granite boulders and a few easier climbs if you’re not ready to go full alpine.
Indoor Rock Climbing Gyms in Madrid
1. Arkose
Arkose is a popular choice for climbing gyms in Madrid if you’re mainly into bouldering. It is stylish, social, and student-friendly; they usually have some type of offer for newcomers, so check out their website! It also has a laid-back café area where you can study or just chill with your friends while you enjoy one of Arkose’s fresh cookies. And while the gym isn’t massive, it’s surprisingly spacious for how central it is, and the regularly changing routes keep things feeling fresh.
2. Sharma
If rope climbing is more your thing, Sharma is your best bet. This massive climbing gym in Madrid is named after Chris Sharma (a legend in the climbing world), and it shows; they’ve got high walls for sport and top-rope climbing, plus a separate bouldering section, a regular gym, and a café. It’s spacious, professional, and perfect if you want the full package.
3. Sputnik
Sputnik is a solid climbing centre with multiple locations around Madrid. Whether you’re into bouldering or rope climbing, they’ve got you covered. The gyms are spacious, well-designed, and have a bit of everything, from beginner routes to stuff that’ll leave your arms shaking. The vibe is friendly and relaxed, and there’s usually a café or chill area where you can catch your breath (or your dignity) after a tough climb.
4. RockOmadrid
A bit smaller and with more of a basement vibe, RockOmadrid is located in the city and leans more toward bouldering. The routes here are generally tough, so it might not be the best place for total beginners, but if you’re up for a challenge or want a less polished, more old-school gym, it’s a cool spot to check out!
5. Climbat X
Climbat X-Madrid is another spot to check out if you’re into both rope climbing and bouldering; they’ve got something for every level. From total beginners whose shoes are as tight as a pair of Crocs in sport mode to seasoned climbers who eat overhangs for breakfast. The place also offers group activities and climbing courses for all ages and skill levels, so whether you want to get started or level up, they’ve got your back!
6. Urban Money
Urban Monkey has two locations, including one right in the city centre with plenty of bouldering space, modern training boards, a gym, and a chill-out zone. The Villalba gym is bigger, with rope climbing, auto-belays, and even a bar-restaurant; perfect for turning your climbing session into a full day out.
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