Just a stone's throw from the forest that has given the block its name the world over, Karma is the Fontainebleau climbing centre. This isn’t just any climbing centre: it’s the first FFME-affiliated centre open to the public in France, and the official training ground for the French bouldering team. That speaks volumes about the level of difficulty on offer there — though that doesn’t make the place intimidating by any means.
Block and track, on two complete registers
Karma has it both ways. On the side block, It has 430 m² of climbing space, walls 3.5 to 4.5 m high and around a hundred boulders from easy to 8b+ that are regularly renewed. For more information, visit routes, a 12-metre-high climbing wall with 33 belay stations and 80 to 100 routes graded from 4a to 8c. The route-setters are top-level climbers, including Jérémy Bonder. In short, you’ll always find something to suit your level, whether it’s modest or very advanced.
A venue that really welcomes beginners
The term «centre of sporting excellence» might sound a bit daunting, but it’s actually quite the opposite. Karma organises all the Tuesdays from 7pm to 8pm an introductory session on belaying, for the price of a standard entry ticket (plus equipment hire). For children, the’Espace Baby Open to children aged 3–4 and over, with weekly classes and holiday courses taking place throughout the year. The «Karma-niversaire» is also a firm favourite for birthday parties with a difference.
The forest's indoor counterpart
What really sets Karma apart is its geographical complicity with the forest. When it rains, when night falls too early, or when you want to warm up before a big session on the sandstone, you head up the steps of the Route Militaire. The venue is designed to serve as a warm-up room for Bleau climbers as much as it is a neighbourhood club open to everyone.
Practice
Prices include single entry, 10-entry passes and annual season tickets, with preferential rates for FFME members, students and children. Open Monday-Friday 12am-10pm, weekends and public holidays 10am-8pm. All the latest information and prices at karma-escalade.fr.
