Translated
from Italian, "Iron Roads" is a cross between hiking and climbing. Via
Ferrata routes are built into rock faces with cables and ladders and
other equipment designed to facilitate people's progression along the
route and to optimize their security.
Developed by the Italian Army in the Dolomites during WW1 to access
"inaccessible" peaks and equip safe passage for the troups carrying
heavy equipment , Via Ferrata is now a new activity in its own
right for people keen to try something a little more challenging than
alpine hiking.
Although no real climbing ability is needed, a via ferrata does demand a steady head for heights.
Where?
The first French Via Ferrata was built in 1988, and it became popular in France and Switzerland in the 90s. There are lots of Via Ferratas close to Chamonix within a 30min to 1
hour drive.
* Mer de Glace in Chamonix (info in French) * Passy (new one) * Borderan in the Col des Aravis near La Clusaz
* Yves Pollet Villard in La Clusaz * Saix du Tour in Avoriaz / Morzine (currently closed) * Saix de Miolène in Chapelle / Abondance * Tour de Jalouvre in Grand Bornand * Collonges in St. Julien / Genève (info in French) * Reclavier in St. Julien / Genève (info in French) * du Mont in Sixt Fer à Cheval * la Roche à l'Agathe in Thônes Mer de Glace - Chamonix Starts at the Montenvers train station, traverses the Mer de Glac glacier, then at the Echellets goes up to the refuge Couvercle (4-5 hours up). Lots of ladders (30).
The Borderan Via Ferrata - Col des Aravis - La Clusaz On the Borderan cliffs above La Clusaz are two via ferratas equipped with cables, metal ladders and suspended walkways.
Yves Pollet Villard - Col des Aravis - La Clusaz Starts and finishes at the Col des Aravis. (3 1/2 hours roundtrip) 1 spectacular footbridge.
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How?
It is recommended to take aguide, either for a first time experience or also to discover the best sites.
- a via ferrata sling equipped with a braking system and 2 carabiners - designed to prevent a fall. - a helmet
Also,
as in any climbing activity, you should bring, a climbing rope,
carabiners, appropriate footwear, gloves, and a backpack with supplies
and a water bottle.
When you hire a guide, normally this specialized equipment will be provided for you.
It is recommended to take a guide, either for a first time experience or also to discover the best sites.