Bouldering in Tirol
The term "Bouldering" is derived from the word boulder and signifies a form of free climbing. Thick foam mats termed 'crash pads' are placed at the base of the rock feature for safety, climbing shoes and chalk are the only other equipment necessary to take part in this sport. In recent years bouldering has increased in popularity and become a sport enjoyed by both adults an children alilke.
At the foot of the Ballunspiltze, located in the middle of Galtürs mountain ranges at a hieght of 2000 metres, you will find yourself in one of the best bouldering areas of the Tirol. Silvaparks Bouldering area offers 160 rock formations of all Fontainebleau gradings including "Anam Cara" (8c), one of the toughest boulder 'problems' in the Tirol.
Starting point: > Birkhahnbahn top/mountain station: Journey time 15 minutes, parking is possible at the bottom station
> Kopsstraße car park - Alpkogel (near the Fluchthornalm) Journey time approx 20 minutes or free with the Schuttle bus to the Birkhahnbahn (summer timetable Zeinis - Galtür)
Boulder area: 8 sectors with approx 160 different bouldering possibilities
Boulder heights: 2 to 10 metres
Difficulty: Fb. 4 to Fb. 8c
Exposure: North
Rock: Prehistoric rock
Fun factor: Amazing
Best time of Year for activity: June to October
Equipment: Climbing shoes and crash pads
Info: Tourist Office Paznaun - Ischgl, Info office Galtür, Tel. +43 50 990-200
Link: www.galtuer.com, www.climbers-paradise.com
A childrens boulder area is planned for the future. At Silvapark all abilities from professionals to beginners can find a challenge.
The passion of bouldering
An austrian nominated for the 'climbing oscar'.
For Bernd Zangerl bouldering is the 'Sport of Kings', when it comes to climbing. As a young boy, Bernd Zangerl discovered the exultation that "playing" on the rocks gave him. At fifteen he began traditional mountain climbing and ascended his first alpine walls. Thereafter he climbed routes of up to grade II difficulty as a sports climber and in 1999 he became Austrians 'Vizemeister' For nearly 10 years he has been described as the ultimate boulderer. No one else other than he has hade such a great influence on the sport.
Up to now, many of his routes have not been bettered. His travelogues have been published in numerous international magazines and have enthused clumbers all over the world. In 2003 he was the first European to be awarded the "Boulderer of the Year" title for his efforts and achievements.
Together with his friends, Bernd Zangerl has now established a complete boulder area, in which those who are fascinated by climbing can delight. As of this year Galtürs Silvapark is one of these areas.
> different bouldering possibilities