Devised by Bristol local legend, Dave Talbot the VS (Very Severe) challenge takes in five of the Avon Gorge’s starred VS routes , all in one day.

While some people blast through the challenge in sub two hours I prefer to do a day of smooth flow, so just relax at the belays and enjoy the climbing.

We walk along the top, well away from the noisy Portway traffic, chance to cool the brain and forearms before the next route.

This day can be great to rack up some trad mileage, explore the gorge crags and learn multipitch skills along the way.

Your challenge is as follows….

Giants Cave Buttress VS 4c, 3-4 Pitches, with the suspension bridge as your backdrop finish right by the Clifton Observatory and be ready to be asked some questions by the onlookers!

Piton Route VS 4c, 3 pitches, a classic rock tick, weaving its way through some spectacular terrain.

Clarion VS 4c, 2 Pitches, delicate slab climbing finishing at the aptly named Lunchtime ledge.

The original challenge abseiled back down here, but I add - Petros VS 4c for a bit of Avon weirdness,

This pops us out at the top for a relaxed wander to Seawalls for-

Gronk VS 4c, 5 pitches, Avon’s true classic, technical moves low down, followed by the traverse of the gods pitch high above the rest of the crag. Finishes (summits?) neatly on the Downs (see the photo behind)

But its not over yet!

Unknown Wall VS 4c, 3 Pitches, A shy gem of a climb that builds to a dramatic climax in its upper reaches. Not many make it this far, and that’s okay, but the finish is worth it ending conveniently right next to the ice cream van on the Downs viewpoint.

17-18 Pitches, 359 metres of climbing, do you reckon you can make it?

Price -

£190 per day for 1 person or £240 for 2 people.

All equipment included if needed, helmets, ropes, comfier shoes if you need them, harnesses and trad gear.

To book please enquire about dates or see my private guiding days.