On the campy, live-action "Batman" television series, the Caped Crusader and the Boy Wonder often were shown climbing up the steep side of a building. Even though this stunt was achieved with clever camera work, dedicated climbers can do in Victoria, Australia, what Batman and Robin could imagine only in their wildest dreams.

Located outside the town of Melbourne, Staughton Vale is a climbing destination whose peaks have such unusual names as "Cousin Jack," and the more ominous-sounding "Acid and Afterbirth." When tackling this mountain, make sure not to break "The First Commandment," a 30-meter climb, or it might just break you.

On Staughton Vale, you also can try your hand (and feet) at abseiling down the craggy mountain face. Melbourne has a few good climbing schools that can teach you the finer aspects of rope work and rappelling down a rock wall. Like the person who packs your parachute when skydiving, you want only the best teachers showing you the, uh, ropes.

You don't have to be crazy to enjoy mountain climbing, but a pair of Mad Rock's Super Loco shoes definitely can help make your abseiling experience a lot more enjoyable. The heel and toe hook on the Super Loco come in handy on those tricky descents, especially if you are new to abseiling.

If your travels "Down Under" bring you close to the Melton Area, try your new mad rope skills at Werribee Gorge. You and a climbing buddy can spend the day rappelling down the Gorge, an area favored by many abseilers.

Once you are in Australia, there are a few different ways to reach Staughton Vale or Werribee Gorge, the easiest being by car. If you want more of a workout, bring your bicycle along for a more scenic tour of the Australian wildlife.

With climbs of all heights and difficulty levels, Staughton Vale is a great place to go when your job has you at the end of your rope.

Sources:
http://www.chockstone.org/Staughton/Staughton.htm
http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2007/09/07/1188783430588.html?page=2