The Cliffs of Moher

(http://s3.jrnl.ie/media/2011/02/cliffs-390x285.jpg)

The Cliffs of Moher in Co.Clare are one of my most favourite cliffs for rock climbing even though I have never climbed them before. To me it is the perfect combination of scenery and rock, to fulfil anyone's adrenalin addictions. The Cliffs of Moher are wonderfully carved by erosion from the sea water and wind. The geographical term for this is weathering.
Weathering involves wind, water or ice. The wind carves the ridges into the rock. However, it is a different action that happens with the water. The water gets caught in different cracks and holes, then overnight freezes, therefore, expands and breaks off some of the rock. This is otherwise known as freeze-thaw action.

(http://regentsprep.org/regents/earthsci/units/weathering/frostwedging.gif)

Climate and Site

You can rock climb almost anywhere in the world as long as you have something to climb on! However, more than likely, the best places to climb are very beautiful and scenic. Having said this though, hotter places are more liked than colder places, for obvious reasons. Many different places around the world have ideal areas for rock climbing. 

In the continent of Africa the main sites for rock climbing are the Eastern and Western capes because they are right sown in the South of Africa which is right out on the sea which carves the lovely routes into the sea cliffs and mountains.

There are similar types of areas in Australia, New Zealand and many areas in Asia.Thankfully you don't have to fly half way around the world to get a good climbing holiday in as you can go to many destinations in Europe! A popular choice for many climbers is places like Croatia and Italy as they have lovely climates and the rock is not too hard but rough enough to give enough grip.

The ideal rock for climbing really depends on the route you are attempting. When you are doing a route with smaller holds for your hands and feet you would prefer a rougher surface on the rock. This is because the rubber on the shoes can cling better to the wall and you will feel more solid on each move. However, if the holds on the route are bigger you may not want a really rough surface as you might want to challenge yourself and get used to relying on these holds for when you climb outdoors.