Discovered a year or so after the development of Cova del Diablo, Cala Barques offers a slightly less intimidating alternative to Diablo's taller cliffs. The rock is generally very solid and gives a variety of features, including stalactites, arches and some rather shapely caves. Most routes here were put up by Klem Loskot, along with the Salomon team, local enthusiast Miquel Riera and U.S. convert Chris Sharma. There are four main areas at Barques. The first is known simply as 'Cova' - a stunning stalactite cave around fourteen metres high. Further along the cliff are two more caves known as the Metrosexual Area and the Snatch Area. Both of these crags are connected by a giant grotto which can be accessed from the top of the cliff. The final feature here is a little further around the headland and is known as the Tarantino Cave - this is the tallest cliff in the vicinity, and houses some of the hardest routes on the island.
Routes
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47 sport routes (6a+...8b) 1 dws route (7b+) Graded List of Routes List of First Ascents |        | ||
| Buttress (click for routes) | No. of Routes | Route Type | Sunshine or shade |
Approach walk | Other | Page |
| Cova Area A delightful crag, with great rock and some amazing architecture. The crag is around 14m in height.... |
23 | Sport |
Lots of sun! |
Level 15 mins |
Windy 0 | 254 |
| Metrosexual Area A great cave, the routes are mainly safe and a perfect 12m high. The crag is generally sheltered.... |
7 | Sport |
Lots of sun! |
Level 20 mins |
Windy 0 | 256 |
| Snatch Area This cave is a terrific way to either fall off a lot or get very fit. It's full of grade 6's and... |
10 | Sport |
Lots of sun! |
Level 20 mins |
Windy 0 | 258 |
| Tarantino Cave This cave is full of big grades. It's also tall, at roughly 22m, so if 'S0' is your preference,... |
8 | Sport |
Morning sun |
Level 25 mins |
Windy 0 | 259 |
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