Perched high above an expanse of vineyards, Claret is a crag that makes you think. The holds always seem to face the wrong way, and those that do face the way you want are almost always flat or sloping, making for some surprisingly pumpy climbing on largely vertical terrain. The grades here often feel a bit stiff, a few changes have been made, but it is worth bearing in mind that Claret is technical, and tough, so don't be too hard on yourself if day one wasn't the scene of personal bests being broken. The crag faces south and gets plenty of sun. On a sunny winter's day Claret can be a delight. In warm weather the polished, sloping holds do not make for an enjoyable climbing experience, although there is plenty of shade for your belayer. Steeper routes will tend to seep a bit after prolonged rain, but the compact rock dries very quickly making it a good destination if it's been wet and the tufas are dripping.