No other nation embraces sport climbing as fully as the French. Not surprising, since they have lots of it! The further south you go in France, the more bolted crags you encounter and there really is something for everyone's taste, at any time of the year.

Almost every climber is familiar with names like Buoux or Ceüse from photos of these sport's hot shots in the climbing magazines. These are undeniably great areas and sport climbers operating at the higher levels will no doubt wish to visit them. In this Rock Climbing Atlas, however, we sample some other destinations in France, lesser known maybe but still popular, that offer a wide range of climbing. Some of these are perfect for beginners whereas others are more suitable for advanced climbers. We also give you a selection of places that are good to visit both in summer and winter.