Piton Route on Great Face slabs at Xaqqa Valley has been fitted with 3 abseil-points/stances. The route can now be abseiled in three sections and lead using the new placements as stances. From the start it is 15m to the 1st stance, 30m to the 2nd stance and 30m to the top anchor (all distances are approximate). Caution on the route, there are some loose flakes between stances 1 & 2.
The route is entirely trad except for these stances. It is an easy angled, pleasant climb but gear for the first two pitches is scant, so expect long run-outs and friable rock. The top pitch is well protected and on super-solid rock.
The Problem. An additional 2 LO bolts have been installed above The Problem route to facilitate the extra safety requirements of abseil/climbing instructors making use of this easy slab for beginners. This was installed by the MRCC upon the request of Malta Outdoors.
