Over the past few weeks, we’ve been focusing on bouldering gyms, but Amsterdam also offers a fantastic range of climbing gyms for lead climbing and more. This time, we explored Mountain Network Amsterdam, a standout climbing destination located in the heart of Amsterdam. Nestled in ‘De Eretribune,’ a multifunctional top sports and residential complex, this gym provides top-notch facilities for both lead climbing and top rope climbing. If you’re in Amsterdam and looking for a unique climbing experience, Mountain Network is worth a visit!
First Impressions and Facilities
When you arrive, you check in at the front desk and proceed to the back. Here, you pass a shop and kitchen area before reaching the changing rooms, located all the way at the rear. Next, you take an elevator to the sixth floor, where the climbing gym is situated. While the setup might feel a bit cumbersome, the gym makes up for it with an impressive main wall. The walls are constructed from triangular panels, giving them a beautifully sculpted appearance.
If it’s your first time climbing, you’ll need to book an appointment for an introductory lesson. This is essential to ensure your safety while climbing with ropes.
Routes and Challenges
During our visit, the route setters were actively updating the routes, which limited access to certain areas for the first hour. However, this highlights the care and attention given to route setting here. The routes are updated regularly, with contributions from international route setters ensuring a consistently high standard. With difficulty levels ranging from 3a to 8c, climbers of all skill levels can find a challenge. The diverse selection of holds and modules ensures a dynamic and engaging climbing experience, making each visit fresh and rewarding.
Climbing Experience and Atmosphere
The gym is frequently used by top climbers, which adds to its inspiring atmosphere. The large overhang is perfect for lead climbing, while the other walls are well-suited for top rope climbing. For tying in, the gym uses a figure-eight knot. While it’s not my personal favorite, it’s just as safe as using a carabiner.
With a height of 15 meters, the gym provides plenty of challenges. In route climbing, you need to be more strategic in managing your energy throughout the route, and recovering mid-climb becomes essential. The challenge often lies not in a single move but in executing several tough sequences back-to-back.
I completed a pyramid training session, climbing routes graded 7A, 7B, 7C, and back down through 7B+ and 7A+. The pump was especially noticeable on the more demanding routes, where the sustained effort really pushed my endurance.
Training Facilities for climbers
In addition to the climbing gym, Mountain Network Amsterdam features an extensive training area on the fifth floor. This space was recently updated and now includes two Kilter Boards (set at 30 and 50 degrees), a spray wall, and a campus board. During the summer, you can also take advantage of the outdoor walls, which stand nearly 10 meters tall, offering a unique climbing experience in the open air. These facilities make it an excellent venue for climbers looking to diversify their training and improve their skills.
Hospitality, Food and Extras
After an intense climbing session, you can enjoy a delicious meal, provided you register at least one day in advance on their website. During our visit, the enticing aroma of food filled the gym, and even though we hadn’t made a reservation, the chef kindly accommodated us. We were treated to a flavorful rice dish with satay and Indonesian-style green beans, a perfect way to refuel after climbing.
Final thoughts
Mountain Network Amsterdam offers an exceptional experience for both recreational and advanced climbers. With challenging routes, state-of-the-art training facilities, and a welcoming atmosphere, this climbing gym is well worth a visit. As the upcoming lead climbing season kicks off, we highly recommend planning a session here to get a head start on your preparation.
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