Overview
Cerro Catedral, near Bariloche in Argentinean Patagonia, is regarded by many as the best rock climbing area in South America. Honey-coloured granite pinnacles surround a snow-filled basin. The rock is weathered, solid and breathtakingly beautiful. Sitting on a belay ledge high above the valley it is easy to see shapes and faces in the surrounding spires, as though they had been carved by some ancient civilisation rather than hewn by the weather. But then weather is something Patagonia has plenty of.
The climbing area is well known as "Frey" name that comes from the "refugio Frey" ( 2 storie hut that can have around 30 people ) The home made pizzas, pastas, beer at night are great ! There is usually a person running the "refugio" that can give you all the beta needed to climb
Getting There
To get there is easy, just take a bus to Bariloche, and from there to the Cerro Catedral Ski Parking lot. You will see the sign to the trail that will take you up to the "Refugio Frey" it is a 10 kilometer trail that you can do in 4 hours. Just follow the signs...you cant miss it.
Red Tape
There are no permits for camping near the "Refugio Frey" but if you want to sleep in the refugio you will need to pay a daily fee. When I was there in Dec´99 - It was like 6 pesos ( 2 bucks...) Dont know how much is now.
When To Climb
The climbing season is probably November to April. You can find snow even in Dec to approach some of the spires.
Camping
Camping is allowed - If not you can still sleep at the hut. ( refugio frey ) If you are going during the summer call the CLUB ANDINO to make sure there is not a big group
Mountain Conditions
There are many web sites you can find information on Frey, what I recommend is buying the guide at the "Club Andino Bariloche" when you get in
CLUB ANDINO BARILOCHE
Casilla de Correo 139. 20 de Febrero 30.
San Carlos de Bariloche - R. Negro
(02944) 42 2256/42 4531
Or you can order it from Rolando Garibotti - probably the best Argentine climber, who worte it. I think his mail is still...
rgaribotti@aol.com
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