Bouldering gyms have been booming lately. Block'out, Vertical'Art, Arkose, they've all taken the initiative to open at the same time. And that's not to our displeasure, as the offer is becoming more varied and closer to home for many climbers who previously had to travel across the capital.
Residents of south-east Paris will be delighted to discover that this new gym has more than one trump card up its sleeve. Just 10 minutes from Paris, it's not just any gym that's opening, but the one with the largest climbing surface. With 1150 m2 of climbing space and 6412 holds with 7 levels of difficulty, there's plenty to do before you get bored.
In terms of structure, it's hard to compare. The chef must have had his brain steaming when he worked out all those blocks. No fewer than 200 volumes were required for the result that awaits you. Complex new structures, an arch, an ascending tunnel, a toboggan for descending (yes, yes, you dreamed it, HardBloc did it) and even a psychobloc. France's first indoor psychobloc, which lands you on a 1.50m carpet.
Finally, if all that hasn't made your mouth water yet, you should know that the hall also boasts an accrobranche course. With several monkey bridges, a spider's web and a zip line spanning half the hall, it's sure to appeal to young and old alike. In fact, with a fully secure, unhooking-free attachment system, children will be able to enjoy this activity without any risk whatsoever.
As a reminder, a bouldering gym is a low-level climbing gym (4 to 5 meters) requiring neither ropes nor harnesses. You climb your own route, and once you're at the top, you either come back down the same way you came up, or go over the top and down the slide, or drop down onto the big mats.
The facilities include a bar for quenching your thirst. As beer seems to be the drink of choice for climbers, the site offers 12 different brands of beer. There's also a snack bar for those who are feeling peckish, as well as an elevated relaxation area for resting or for future parties.
There's also a weight room, with everything you need to work those muscles. The little extra? the bay window giving a direct view of the large climbing gym. Finally, when you've had a good workout, you can hang out in the sauna.
Last but not least, the gym also offers introductory courses for young and old alike. Those in the know can even benefit from lessons with real champions, ideal for improving technique.
Practical info:
Official website: HardBloc, climbing gym in Alfortville
11, rue Parmentier - 94140 Alforville
Opening hours:
- 10am to 10pm Monday to Friday
- 9am to 7pm weekends and public holidays
Rates:
Single admission: €14 normal / €12 reduced / €8 children
10 admissions: €120 normal / €100 reduced / €70 children
Annual: €450 normal / €390 reduced / €320 children
Please note that it's been over 4 years since our last visit, so the place and experience may have changed.
Dates and Opening Time
Starts March 10, 2025
Location
HardBloc, climbing gym
11 Rue Parmentier
94140 Alfortville
Access
RER: Alfortville - Maisons-Alfort
