Bouldering in Avalonia (Germany)

Avalonia is a unique bouldering destination in Germany, offering challenging problems, natural terrain, and a distinctive climbing experience. Located in the Ruhr Valley near Wetter and Herdecke,

Quick factsDetails
LocationRuhr Valley (near Herdecke and Wetter, Germany)
Stone TypeCompact Sandstone (extremely fast-drying)
Number of Problems125 to 632 depending on the source
Grade rangeFont 3 to 8a – V0 to V11
Best forTerraces, roof climbs, caves, and highly technical sandstones

Daniel Kohl

Daniel Kohl, the creative mind behind Avalonia, transformed the wilderness near Herdecke, Germany, into a unique land art and bouldering site. His project began in 2008 and evolved into terraces and walls that blend art with climbing. Avalonia is not just a place for bouldering but a location that reflects Pohl’s vision of childhood freedom, as climbers weave through caves and terraces designed for playful yet challenging climbing 

Pohl works with Boulderclub Ruhrtal, a non-profit organization that maintains Avalonia and ensures it remains accessible to climbers while protecting the natural environment. The club organizes volunteers, raises funds, and helps preserve Avalonia as a sustainable climbing destination.

Surroundings of bouldering in Avalonia

Avalonia is nestled in the picturesque Ruhr Valley, near the towns of Herdecke and Weller, in Germany. The area is rich with natural beauty, characterized by dense forests, rolling hills, and tranquil rivers. Bouldering in Avalonia offers climbers a peaceful escape, surrounded by lush greenery and the calming sounds of nature. The sandstone boulders are integrated seamlessly into the landscape, with many problems running through caves and terraces. The forest trails leading to the boulders provide a serene walk through nature, while the elevated terraced formations offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, making Avalonia not just a climbing destination but a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts​

Daniel Pohl

He made bouldering in Avalonia possible. More info about him and his life.

Daniel Pohl Bouldering in Avalonia
Daniel Pohl Bouldering in Avalonia

Avalonia Bouldering Features:

number of boulders

While 27 Crags lists the ~125 boulder problems, local platforms like theCrag map up to 632 boulders across the terraces.

Avalonia’s problems range from beginner to advanced, with most climbs between FB 3 to 8A+. The sandstone features provide diverse climbing styles including vertical faces, smooth slabs, overhangs, and technical sequences.

Type of stone

Compact sand stone. Dries fast. 

Parking 

  1. Park: Leave your car at the Zillertal Mini Golf Course parking lot.
  2. Cross: Carefully cross the main road and follow it rightwards.
  3. Ascend: Look for the marked forest trail heading up the hill on your left. Follow this path for roughly 10 minutes to reach the main sectors.

Topos 

Can be bought with Daniel Pohl for a few euro’s (make sure to take some change along), wandering around or at Avalonia cave.  He would be present mostly in weekends.

Sources about bouldering in Avalonia

Topos sources