Summer is right around the corner, and the return of warmer weather means it's definitely time to dust off the old climbing kit and start planning a sun-soaked getaway. Where to hit the crag is the biggest question, and when it comes to seasonal getaways, climbers are spoiled for choice. Will it be steep limestone, pocketed granite, or weathered sandstone this summer?

No matter which of these appeals, there's a perfect destination just waiting to be explored. And they aren't all geared toward expert climbers. Keep reading to learn about ten epic places to hit the crag no matter what kind of climber one is, and enjoy some warm weather on top!

2 Kalymnos, Greece

The hidden Greek Island gem of Kalymnos has somehow managed to stay off the mainstream tourist radar, but the secret has been out among climbers for years. Like much of the Mediterranean, Kalymnos has famously steep and challenging limestone marked by deep pockets and towering tufas. But, there's plenty of rock for new climbers here, too!

Less experienced explorers can start by exploring easy and moderate routes on the lower-angle gray limestone. Then, move up to more challenging walls with plenty of bolts and top biners for worry-free lowering. Advanced and adventurous climbers have nothing to worry about, as the climbing gets as hard as anyone can handle here, with plenty of 9+ graded routes to choose from.

  • Best for: Sport climbing
  • Know before you go: This is technically a year-round destination, but many tourist amenities close during fall and winter

1 Sardinia, Italy

This is a true sport climber's paradise, with nearly 4,000 single-pitch routes laid in steep limestone, plus a smattering of trad climbing and bouldering, as well. Cala Gonone is the island's best-established area, where most visitors stop and explore first. Those who enjoy its challenging but well-protected routes with jaw-dropping views of the sea may never leave.

Unlike many of the climbing areas on this list, Sardinia's crags are surprisingly accessible, thanks to three local airports and easy-to-navigate public transportation. In addition to fabulous climbing, Sardinia also enjoys beautiful Mediterranean weather, delicious dining, friendly locals, and stunning scenery. Stick around for fantastic trekking and mountain biking and some truly spectacular beaches!

  • Best for: Sport climbing
  • Know before you go: Inexperienced explorers can try the island's via ferrata route for a taste of climbing without the risk of falling

Related: Don't Steal The Sand And Other Don'ts For Visiting Sardinia

Yosemite National Park, United States

Even the newest climbers have heard of El Capitan, which is a special peak in Yosemite and undoubtedly its most beloved, boasting over 3000 feet (914 meters) of picturesque granite loaded with exciting and challenging routes. Hire a guide or team up with a more experienced "rope gun" for a chance to take on challenging routes that would otherwise be too tricky. Or, go it alone, enjoying some of the less complex and well-protected Aid routes here. Made even more infamous by the film Free Solo, El Cap now has 99 developed routes with a bit of something for every climber. Just keep in mind that exploring here is one of the sport's most sought-after experiences, so it's virtually impossible to avoid sharing the wall with others. A free permitting system helps to control the crowds.
  • Best for: Trad, Aid climbing
  • Know before you go: The weather is unpredictable here - plan for all four seasons on the same day

Côte D'Azur, France

Granted, the French Riviera and its top attractions might not instantly conjure visions of tough limestone climbing loaded with tufas, overhangs, ledges, slabs, and holes. But this region is actually home to some of the best rock in all of France. And much of it enjoys a stunning view of the sea! Sometimes referred to as the Alp Maritime region, this area has over 50 crags and thousands of established routes. Climbing here is possible all year round, but summer months are ideal for warm sunny weather and panoramic views that stretch for miles. It's also a great time of year to explore the surrounding coast and countryside or take a side trip to Nice. Côte D'Azur does offer climbing suitable for all skill levels, but beginners may struggle with the walls' lower sections here, famous for loose rock and difficult scrambling.
  • Best for: Sport climbing, bouldering
  • Know before you go: Approach shoes are an absolute must here
Though this is a year-round destination, it's best avoided during rain. Seasonal downpours here form fast-moving rivulets that can quickly become dangerous.

Arapiles, Australia

Mount Arapilies isn't particularly impressive from a distance, appearing as barely more than a rugged cliff line perched amid the vast Wimmera Plain. However, on closer inspection, this is a true climber's paradise with thousands of established routes beginning just a short walk away from camp. The rock here is a striking red made from dense quartzite and sandstone with plenty of cracks to go around. Come prepared for massive faces, steep walls, and overhanging terrain ideal for wires and other paper-thin trad anchors. In addition to climbing, this area boasts fantastic hiking and trekking, swimming holes, and close access to another fantastic outdoor area - the nearby Grampians.
  • Best for: Trad climbing
  • Know before you go: To get here, rent a car and drive 186 miles (300 km) northwest from Melbourne

Lander Wyoming, United States

Found in the southeastern foothills of the Wind River mountains, this series of challenging Bighorn Dolomite cliffs boasts some of the country's best buttresses, walls, and sinks. And while it's open for climbing all year round, the formation is prone to soggy conditions during spring and early frosts in fall, making it a true summer destination. Lander is a well-established climbing destination with close access to dining and lodging of all kinds, including camping and several outdoors outfitters. There's even a rock gym close by for when rough weather interferes with the day's planned activities. The Wind River range also offers fantastic opportunities for mountaineering.
  • Best for: Sport climbing
  • Know before you go: Visit in mid-July to catch the International Climbers' Festival held here
Rattlesnakes are common here, especially during the warmest months of the year. Keep an eye out on trails and at the base of cliffs to avoid an accidental scare or, worse, an actual snake bite.
Related: 10 Awesome Things That You Can Do In Wyoming

Squamish, Canada

Summer is the best time to visit British Columbia, whether for trekking, camping, beach going, or even rock climbing. And Squamish is easily the province's best place to get those hands chalky thanks to its easy approaches, wide variety of routes, and breathtaking scenery. Best of all, it's just a 90-minute drive from Vancouver. Climbers here are in for a treat, with endless options for pristine granite climbing, most of which are practically roadside. During summer months, there are also plenty of comfortable places to camp, affordable accommodations ranging from hostels to cheerful guesthouses, and ample dining and drinking venues. Plan for rain even if it isn't in the forecast - the weather here is unpredictable, and precipitation is always possible.
  • Best for: Trad, sport climbing, bouldering
  • Know before you go: Pack rain gear here regardless of the season and weather forecast to avoid spending a trip soaking wet

Flatanger, Norway

Unknown in the climbing world until just a few years ago, this Scandinavian destination is guaranteed to impress climbers of all skill levels with its stunning slabs and crack climbing. There are plenty of routes suitable for beginners, but this terrain is ideal for experts hoping to score first ascents and is also home to the world's first 9b+ rated climb. The most famous area here, Hanshelleren, is home to over 50 routes mostly comprised of bullet-hard, glacier-polished granite. The highlight here is a scenic cave, and climbing around it offers a wide variety of stunning views. During summer, the sun never truly sets here, making days on the crag as long as climbers' weary arms can handle.
  • Best for: Sport climbing
  • Know before you go: Visit between June and August for warm weather
The biting flies found here are notoriously vicious. Pack plenty of bug spray and protective clothing to avoid being eaten alive.

Rocklands, South Africa

Just a three-hour drive south of South Africa's legendary Cape Town, which is home to lots of natural attractions, lies one of the country's lesser-explored outdoor areas - Rocklands. This region has only started catching the attention of tourists in recent years, thanks largely to American climbing pioneer Todd Skinner. But it's quickly becoming one of the most highly regarded places on the planet to solve big bouldering problems. Rocklands has a surprisingly Mediterranean climate, with comfortable summers typified by cool evenings that occasionally bring a bit of frost contrasted against warm sunny days perfect for climbing in shorts and a t-shirt. During late summer months like August, the region also boasts some of Africa's most stunning wildflower blooms.
  • Best for: Bouldering
  • Know before you go: Renting a car and driving is the easiest way to reach Rocklands from Cape Town
Related: It's Easy To See Why It's Worth Seeing The Dolomites, Based On These Trip Highlights

Dolomites, Italy

This challenging range of steep limestone straddling the border of Austria and Italy has always been considered one of Europe's very best destinations for climbers. This is partly thanks to the region's diverse crags with massive near-vertical walls, moderate alpine routes, and single-pitch sport climbs. The Dolomites also offer surprisingly easy approaches, with short walks to the base of most routes and no ice fields or glaciers to contend with. Most climbs here take just a day to complete, but there are mountain cabins known locally as "refugios" available for visitors hoping to take on multi-day adventures.
  • Best for: Alpine climbing and big walls
  • Know before you go: Book overnight stays in this region's "refugios" well in advance to avoid disappointment