📜 Pálava, also known as Pavlovské vrchy, is one of the oldest climbing terrains in the Czech Republic, located within the Protected Landscape Area Pálava and the National Nature Reserve Děvín-Kotel-Soutěska.
🔍 This extensive complex of Jurassic limestone formations offers climbing qualities comparable to Tatran granite or the Dolomites, set within a beautiful natural landscape.
☀️ Climbing: Pálava offers diverse climbing routes on limestone, with good modern bolting. Permitted sectors include Martinka, Trůn, and Obří kámen.
✈️ Nearby attractions: The area is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, known for its unique geology and rare species. It is situated between Dolní and Horní Věstonicemi, Pavlov, and Mikulov, approximately 50km south of Brno.
⚠️ Main potential issue: Falling rocks are a significant danger; a helmet is mandatory even when moving below the rocks.
🚫 Rules or restrictions:
• Seasonal restriction: Climbing is permitted only from August 1st to December 31st. The first half of the year is restricted due to nesting rare birds.
• Time restriction: Allowed from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, only during daylight.
• Access & Descent: Use marked paths; descent is primarily by rappelling, or a marked path for Martinka.
• New routes/bolting: Must be reported to CHKO Pálava administration 7 days in advance.
• Group size: Organized climbing events are not permitted for groups larger than five persons.
• Fixed protection: Only removable protection allowed for free climbing; no hammering in pitons/bolts.
🚶♀️ Crowding or timing issues: The area can be crowded with climbers during autumn weekends due to seasonal opening.
🚗 Driving directions or parking info: Located approximately 50km south of Brno, between Dolní and Horní Věstonicemi, Pavlov, and Mikulov.
🤝 Operating organization or contact info: Managed in cooperation with CHKO Pálava Administration, Czech Mountaineering Association (ČHS), and Regional Peak Commission South Moravia.