Will Bosi has made a strong start to the new year: With "Por do Sol," the 27-year-old Scotsman has achieved the first ascent of a persistent long-term project. It took three trips to Portugal before Bosi was able to crack the code. The line traverses diagonally across a slightly overhanging granite block – a seemingly barren wall that offers just enough holds to make the technically demanding climb possible.
A perfect start to the new year! I probably just completed the best boulder problem I've ever attempted!
Will Bosi
Bosi discovered the project in 2024 during a bouldering trip to Portugal. He almost completed the entire boulder problem at the time. However, the crux, a "typical competition move," eluded the Scotsman. In March 2025, he returned to Sintra and attempted it again at the key point, but finally succeeded in mid-December during his third trip to Portugal. "After all these years, my competition training finally paid off," Bosi commented after his successful first ascent in January of this year. His proposed grade of 8C+ makes "Por do Sol" the hardest boulder problem in Portugal to date.
When asked about the grade, Bosi replied: “Suggesting a difficulty rating is never easy. But this boulder felt significantly harder to me than any other line I've climbed in Portugal or elsewhere in a comparable style. That's why I think 8C+ is appropriate. However, the unique character of the route and the specific angle of the rock make grading particularly difficult.” Bosi is looking forward to repeat ascents that will provide clarity on the difficulty. According to the Scottish superstar, Por do Sol is definitely worth a try.
Five first ascents in one trip
Besides Por do Sol, Will has also mastered other difficult first ascents in the area. With "T-Rex" and "The Navigator," he established two 8B boulders – both in flash ascents. In addition, "Tornado" and "Relampato," two 8A+ boulders, have been added to his list of first ascents.
Will Bosi is not only looking strong at the start of 2026. He wants to make the coming year even better. Silence dedicate to the well-known 9c Climbing route in Flatanger, Norway. As soon as the season begins, he plans a trip to the Hanshelleren cave.
Here's the link to Will's video »Sintra Bouldering«:
Mild climate and great blocks
Portugal offers fantastic opportunities for sport climbing, deep water soloing, and bouldering. Along the Atlantic coast and inland, areas like Sintra, Ericeira, and Serra da Estrela boast an impressive variety of granite and sandstone boulders – often with sea views, good friction, and a mild climate year-round. The combination of high-quality boulders, low crowds, and spectacular scenery makes Portugal's bouldering areas increasingly attractive to vertical enthusiasts.
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Credits: All images: @Teresa_Coimbra_Climbs | Teresa Coimbra