In Orlu there's the tooth, of course, but also a beautiful bouldering area in the forest, perfectly laid out for enjoying the area in peace and quiet. Several circuits are available, from the easiest (yellow and orange) to the hardest (white). Basically, the intermediate circuits are perfect: the blue circuit (in the 4/5 range) is great for warming up or not hurting yourself too much, and the more solid red circuit (in the 5/6 range) is already hard enough for us. The forest atmosphere, even in summer, makes the rock a little damp, with a fair amount of moss on the less sunny faces. Welcome to the Cours des Miracles!
Technical summary
Access to the place
On the road from Ax-les-Thermes to Andorra, turn towards Orly. Pass the village of Orgeix, then Orlu, and head towards the forges to find the parking lot on the right, with access to the bouldering area (see access map).
Itinerary description
Hiking to the start 5'
Take the path along the river and, at the sign, stay below to reach boulder 3 (Carnaval, routes 1, 2 and 3), then higher up, the Île aux Moustiques and finally the Marina clearing (routes 17 and 18).
Course
The bouldering area, completely under the woods, is organized into circuits of different colors (depending on level) and each route is numbered and the number painted on the rock at the point of the route. You'll need a guide to the area (4 euros from the tourist office), 1 or 2 crashpads and a good pof bag.
Bloc Marina (red route 18, 5b)
Attempts but no success. Some grip and a mini-reglette, but the humidity didn't help.
Bloc Fesse droite (red route 17, 6a+)
A start with an overhang and flats to get out. Lots of attempts and a way out for some...
Bloc Carnaval (routes 1, 2 and 3)
Route 1 in the middle (5b) overhanging but good holds. Route 3 on the right-hand ridge is harder (5c), with round holds and few hooks. Finally, route 2 (6a) is very difficult and high.
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