Maitland Valley Grotto

Maitland Valley Grotto & Maitland Valley Strength

When Peter May was looking for a new partner for Maitland Valley Grotto, the area’s only indoor bouldering gym, he didn’t have to look far. Marcus Maddalena is a climber with passion who has been a member of the Grotto’s climbing community since it opened in 2019.

Bouldering is the most popular form of climbing, with no need for ropes and spotters. In fact, you just need to bring a water bottle and some comfy clothes, as shoe rentals are part of the service. It is a combination of game and sport, as part of the allure is the puzzle component as you are challenged to figure out your next hand-hold or where to set your foot. The sport is a full body workout, and is not as reliant on upper body strength as you might think. The legs and core are just as important, and in fact, relaxed arms are key to success. Peter likens the moves to climbing a ladder, rather than pull-ups. And, he points out that any fitness level can enjoy bouldering, as beginner routes are set to traverse the wall across and lower to the ground. Falling is not a factor, as the base is made up of very thick, soft mats designed to keep you safe from any height.

The climbs are set on a specially-engineered wall that is 15 feet high, with 2100 square feet of boulder space and colour-coded routes by difficulty, progressing from beginner to advanced. A quarter of the wall is changed weekly with 12 new climbs created, built and tested by Marcus and Peter on Sundays, the only day that the facility is closed. Marcus is the chief route setter, a role that he relishes. His day job as a full-time biologist isn’t nearly as creative and he is proud to keep setting unique routes to keep their members challenged. “We’re small but innovative, with serious route setting allowing us to keep up with facilities in much larger centres,” he says.

The facility has just recently expanded, with the addition of Maitland Valley Strength, a full weight training gym with 24-hour access for members. The gym features free weights and is fully equipped for any fitness goal, including personal trainers available, as well as classes and workshops.

The key to Maitland Valley Grotto’s success is the community that has built up around them, Peter said. In addition to the members and guests who have become friends, the Grotto has formed some unique partnerships with other local businesses to offer discounts for members.

You don’t need to become a member to try out the boulder wall. Day passes are available for just $20, and includes shoe rental, and there is lots of time to try it as the Grotto is open Monday to Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm. To book, visit the website or just drop in.