During a weekend trip to Groningen, we could not resist exploring the local bouldering scene. The city has two bouldering gyms and one climbing gym, so there is plenty of choice for every climber. Our friends recommended Apex Boulders a modern and creative gym that is known as one of the best places to climb in the north of the Netherlands.
We had also wanted to visit the famous Excalibur outdoor wall at Bjoeks, the tallest freestanding climbing tower in the world, but the weather did not cooperate. We will save that for next time, so we can write about it then. For now, it was time to discover Apex.
About Apex Boulders Groningen
Apex literally means “top” or “highest point.” A fitting name for a bouldering gym. Apex Boulders opened in 2022 and belongs to the same family as well-known gyms such as Energiehaven, Roest, and Radium. You can see that immediately in the layout and use of color.
Although Apex is part of a larger group, each gym has its own character, atmosphere, and route-setting style. That is also why we enjoy returning to these gyms. It never feels like a copy: each location has its own identity and attention to quality.
Practical Information
Apex Boulders is located on the outskirts of Groningen. We arrived by car and were able to park for free, even though it was quite busy. The café area was pleasantly lively, and the gym was full of climbers. There is no separate children’s corner; many children were sitting with a hot chocolate while their parents were climbing.
The gym is built around three large “mushroom” structures, with smaller walls along the sides. Compared to Luchthaven, the shapes at Apex are more varied, with more angles and folds. Many climbers do not think about it, but the shape of the walls largely determines how enjoyable and creative the climbing feels.
There is also a small top-out section and a training area with a Kilter Board, weights, and other training equipment. It is a nice addition if you want to work on extra strength or core training alongside climbing.
Our bouldering experience
We started with a few easy boulders to warm up. Climbing together always makes a session more enjoyable, and we took our time. Lina found plenty of slab problems that were safe for her injured finger, while I moved on to the 6B’s and more challenging routes.
What we liked was that the boulders involved a lot of movement due to the overhang. You weren't standing at the top within three holds; you really had to work for the top. It felt almost like route climbing, and I found that surprisingly enjoyable. We all agreed that the boulders were well-set. It is rare for four climbers of different skill levels and styles to all find something to their liking. The variation in style and movement was great, ranging from powerful overhangs to technical slabs.
When evaluating gyms, we always pay attention to the quality of the route setting, and at Apex this was clearly done well. The boulders featured logical movements, creativity, and a pleasant flow. One of the more difficult problems (7B) required a 360-degree rotation. Perfect for a video, although I did not get further than 180 degrees myself. Lina tried a jump-start problem and, to her own surprise, managed to complete it after a few attempts. The easier circuits were also enjoyable and varied.
Atmosphere and community
The atmosphere at Apex was immediately relaxed and welcoming. Other climbers were easy to approach, and sharing beta came naturally. Time flew by; after two hours, we realised we had not even come close to trying everything.
My climbing partner and I are at roughly the same level, so we kept pushing each other until our energy was truly spent. After that, we joined our partners and cheered them on during their final boulders. Moments like that are what make climbing especially enjoyable.
Bar and restaurant
After climbing, we had a drink together in the gym’s spacious bar area. The space has a pleasant atmosphere, with plenty of spots to catch your breath. There is coffee, soft drinks, and light snacks, exactly what you need after an intense session. It was busy, but never too crowded. The perfect way to end a great afternoon of climbing.
Final thoughts
Apex Boulders is highly recommended for anyone who wants to go bouldering in Groningen. The gym is spacious, creatively designed, and has a welcoming community atmosphere. The routes are of high quality and feel well thought out.
A small children’s corner might be a nice addition. Many gyms in the same group, such as Luchthaven and Zuidhaven, already have one, and with so many young families in the gym, it would not feel out of place here.
We certainly had a great time. The next time we are in Groningen, we will definitely come back. And hopefully, we will finally be able to climb the legendary Excalibur then.
