Climbing in a church isn't just a dream - it was once a reality in Amsterdam at the aptly named "Between Heaven and Earth." This unique venue, later managed by Mountain Network, became a favorite spot for climbers seeking an extraordinary setting. Although it eventually closed when Mountain Network relocated to a new facility on the other side of the city’s ring road, its legacy still captures the imagination of climbing and bouldering enthusiasts.
Today, more and more bouldering gyms are moving beyond industrial warehouses, finding homes in unique and historic spaces like old churches. In the Netherlands, there are currently four bouldering gyms located in churches. These venues combine the thrill of climbing with the charm of architecture, offering climbers an unforgettable experience:
The Magic of Church Bouldering
You can’t miss it - climbing in a church has a vibe like no other. The towering ceilings, colorful stained glass, and historic atmosphere make these spots totally unique. The moment you step through those massive church doors, it feels almost magical. Plus, these gyms are usually super central since churches were built to be the heart of the community, not hidden away on some industrial site.
Why Choose Church Bouldering?
While churches are typically tall enough for climbing walls, they’re more often transformed into bouldering gyms. This trend is partly due to the growing popularity of bouldering in the Netherlands, but it also comes down to the church's architecture. The narrow design and structural pillars make it challenging to install large climbing walls. Bouldering gyms, however, fit perfectly within the available space and complement the unique building style.
Turning Churches into Climbing Gyms: Challenges and Innovations
Transforming a church into a bouldering gym isn’t without its challenges. Take Boulderkerk Apeldoorn, for example, where an additional floor was added to create more wall space. While practical, these modifications can sometimes detract from the church’s authentic atmosphere.
Training areas also present a common issue; there’s often limited space for training boards, weights, and other equipment. Many gyms work around this by utilizing smaller side rooms within the church. Nirvana in Scheveningen is one of the lucky ones, boasting a spacious training area. Though not yet fully completed, plans for a Kilterboard are already in motion.
Heating: Summer vs. Winter
Churches aren’t exactly known for being warm, which can be a blessing during summer. However, in the winter months, they can get pretty chilly. Thankfully, some church bouldering gyms have found ways to address this. Boulderkerk Veldhoven, for instance, features underfloor heating, keeping climbers cozy even on the coldest days. That said, our advice remains: bring an extra sweater or hoodie in winter and make sure to do a proper warm-up before climbing.
To Shower or Not to Shower?
Not all church bouldering gyms are equipped with showers. In Venlo, the addition of an extra floor made room for showers, but in Apeldoorn, they’re completely absent. After an intense bouldering session, it’s nice to freshen up, so this is something to keep in mind when choosing your location.
Which Church Bouldering Gym Will You Choose?
Everyone has their own preferences. Personally, I’m drawn to Boulder Veldhoven and Nirvana in Scheveningen (near Den Haag). These gyms offer a spacious feel, a stunning setting, and challenging boulders. Ultimately, though, it all comes down to what you’re looking for. Are you more focused on the atmosphere, practical amenities, or training options? Which church bouldering gym will you visit first? Let us know in the comments!
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