The ascent of the East Ridge End of Besparmak is only possible by a serious and long rock climb
Barry Hurst and friend attempted the East Ridge End (probably a grade Severe rock climb), starting
just below the trees shown in the photo above. Some 30m (100 ft) higher, near to the bulge seen at
the top of the photo, Barry dislodged a 40kg (90lb) block of rock when reaching up to a hold. The
loose rock had to be held on to for several minutes whilst the other climber (second on the rope)
removed himself from the direct line of fall. Further exploration at the time seemed foolhardy and
the climb was abandoned!
This impressive large cliff lies just a few metres north-west of Besparmak, reached by following the
forestry track which goes through the saddle next to the start of the ascent of the West Ridge End.
It appears to offer an excellent selection of climbing routes between 10m (30 ft) and 75m (250 ft)
Just to the east of the large cliff lie some smaller rock outcrops. Cyprus Mountaineering opened a
Log Book for new ascents, and with client Alan Evans, named this cliff 'Iwan's Crag'. The first climb
on the crag was the buttress on the left of the photo, the second climb up the skyline route to the
right. Alan is seen here completing the first free ascent of 'Easy Gully' in between the two climbs.
Iwan's Crag
1st Climb - 'Krishan' - 25m (80 ft) - Moderate - First Ascent: B. Hurst, A. Evans
Open route at left of crag; belay by large rock at ridge top.
2nd Climb - 'Jool's and Sian's Conquest' - 25m (80 ft) - Difficult - First Ascent: B. Hurst, A.Evans
Right of 'Easy Gully'; the next obvious line to the ridge. Some loose blocks at the top.