The Watchtower

New routes are always worth writing about and our newest is about as high as we could find. The biggest boulder perched right up on top of Fraggle Rock, the Watchtower is a precarious boulder offering some exposure like no where else on Koh Tao. Previously too dangerous to free climb or boulder due to the sloping bottom and very long fall, Tim and Bart scrambled up and placed a permanent anchor with a stringer for easier access.

With two routes, a very easy kiddie slope to scramble up to reach the top or the much fun overhanging, exposed front of the rock where you dangle in the air looking for somewhere for your feet while you hands are on a couple of 'thank god' holds until you find you way up with a heel hook to reach to top. Yet to be graded but probably a 6a and about 9 m in length. The view rolls from Hin Wong, around the Sairee and Mae Haad opening up right in front of you, best spot on the island hands down.

Some new bolts in the Laem Thien jungle complementing some expansion months ago has also been finished adding to the seldom used climbing area with some more to come down the line. Sport routes are next with 3 lined up and another 2 being looked at, the only thing holding us back is the customers making us work (which is great) and the typhoons (which is not so good).