Avantas or Avas is a village of 400 residents located 11Km north of Alexandroupolis, at the base of the homonymous hills through which the Apokrimno ravine flows, forming the characteristic limestone valley. The valley of Avantas is 1,2Km long, bordered to the east by the hill of Agia Marina (410m) and to the west by the hill of the Byzantine castle (180m), while it is less than 500 m from the village. Climbing activity is centered around the south section of the valley with a plethora of traditional and sport routes, all framed by the lush slopes of the surrounding hills.
The location of Avantas between sea and mountains, as well as the control of the passage via the valley, proved a strategic advantage for the ancient inhabitants who built a fortified town as well as defensive towers along the route.
The wider area of Avantas has developed as a destination for naturalist and historic tourism with the lush vegetation of the area being the perfect background for climbing and hiking alike. Besides the castles and towers, the cave-built chapel of Agioi Theodoroi at Eirinis ravine is popular, as well as the picturesque hike to the Avantas waterfall.
Access
The approach to Avantas is possible mainly from the south via Alexandroupolis, since the valley is crossed by the first kilometers of EO53 Alexandroupolis - Mikro Dereio. To access Avantas from Alexandroupolis center, simply follow Avantas street, which connects to EO53. It is possible to circumvent the center when approaching via Egnatia Odos by exiting at the Alexandroupolis Industrial Area, about 8.5Km northeast of the city.
Climbing history
Avantas Valley offers a large variety of climbing on its five main crags, with both traditional and sport routes (from 4a to 8a+), on the generally solid area limestone. Each sector offers something different; slabs, cracks, towers, ridges and even a cave. The size of the crag and the differentiated aspect of each sector allow for all day climbing, while the easy access and selection of low difficulty routes make Avantas a worthwhile destination for beginner and intermediate climbers alike. Among the dozens of routes notable are “Giannis Kinatidis” (6a, 110m), “Rastafari” (VII A0, 140m), “Koumbario” (VI+, 160m), and “Alexander the Great” (6b, 70m).
