Description

The Vasilia / Karsiyaka crag offers two distinct sectors: Delta and Cathedral.

Delta is a slab but with features! This is one of the earliest sectors in the Pentadaktylos range with a collection of beginner-friendly routes. Unique lines and solid rock make this one of the most interesting crags on the island for easier lines. Enjoy a beautiful view of the monastery and the sea. The monastery is well worth a walk-through if you’re visiting this crag.

Conditions

Delta has a similar west/northwest-facing aspect as its neighbour, Cathedral, but you’ll find shade here later into the afternoon.

Cathedral is a gem on the western edge of the Pentadaktylos range. It features a small cave with exceptional lines through the roof. To the left, a towering vertical wall dominates the landscape, while the right side offers a crimpy, pocketed style. The sector is located along the path of a popular hiking trail if you’re looking to combine climbing with other activities on your trip.

Conditions

The west/northwest-facing cliff gets morning shade that stretches into afternoon shade from late September to December. This is peak climbing season at this crag due to the climbing ban during the peregrine falcon nesting season. You’ll find the crag still in full shade by 4 p.m. in November.

History

The Delta sector is one of the early sectors in the North, mainly developed by Mustafa Konca. Cathedral sector was added by Stefanos Papadopoulos, Andreas Rossidis and Andreas Parparinos in 2021-22.

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Vasilia / Karsiyaka

The area is access sensitive!

Access is restricted from January 1 to July 1 due to nesting peregrine falcons.

Access

Coming from Kozan Koy, continue along the road that winds up and over the mountain following signs for Karsıyaka. At the edge of Karsıyaka village, 150 m after passing several white villas on your left, take a right turn (35.343284, 33.118900). There is a somewhat hidden sign for Sina Monastery. If you reach the mosque, you have gone too far.

Follow the dirt track, keeping right at both forks in the road. Park at the monastery. Approximately 20 minutes from Kozan Koy.

Note: The condition of this dirt track varies and may not always be suitable for low-clearance cars.

Approach

From the parking area, continue on foot up the dirt road between the olive trees. Turn right after 150 m and then continue to the end of this road. Follow the signs for the Karsıyaka Trail, which is marked with green and white paint on the rocks.

Approximately five minutes from the parking area you will see an old concrete wall on your left with the slab visible above you. To reach the Delta Sector, scramble up the rocky scree until you reach a faint path leading to the right. Continue zig-zagging up this path to the base of the crag.

To reach the Cathedral sector, continue to follow the signs for the Karsıyaka Trail, which is marked with green and white paint on the rocks. The trail passes directly beneath the cliff.