Between climbing and hiking, Via Ferrata is a mountain sport practiced on rock faces equipped with rungs and ladders. Safety is therefore enhanced and allows access to a wider audience than climbing.
The Via Ferrata of Thônes
We are going to present a difficult, demanding but beautiful Via Ferrata. Located about twenty kilometers from Annecy, it is very airy and overlooks the Haute-Savoie village of Thônes. Access is via the N203 following Thônes-Aravis from Annecy. At the entrance of the village, you need to approach the Hermitage hotel, the departure is right next to it.
The beginning is quite easy, but the rest is extremely difficult and requires great athletic qualities.
The exposure being full South, you need to take something to hydrate during the effort and avoid the hottest hours of the day.
The change of cable section occurs in the middle of overhangs, which is an additional difficulty. The end of the course allows for two variants: the easiest is to use a ladder turned towards the void. The other option is to climb a roof using bicep strength. One last effort through a section that has fewer rungs and the return is made by descending while being secured by the cable.
The departure is at an altitude of 660 m, the elevation gain is 255 m and the cable is 600 m long.
You need to walk 10 minutes to reach the start, the effort lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes and the return takes 30 minutes.
The Via Ferrata of La Clusaz
This via ferrata is located in high mountains above the typical village of La Clusaz, 30 minutes by car from Annecy. The return walk is quite long and resembles hiking. It is of medium difficulty and is not very suitable for children. You will discover beautiful sensations of emptiness. It is preferable to start this via ferrata quite early because weather conditions in the mountains can change quickly.
The Via Ferrata of Fort l’Ecluse
Located in Léaz, in Ain, this Via Ferrata is a 3-hour activity suitable for ages 14-60. Accompanied by an experienced guide, explore the cliff of Fort l’Ecluse with obstacles like the monkey bridge and the ladder. Enjoy spectacular views of the Rhône.
The Via Ferrata at Roc du Cornillon in Bourdeau (73)
Discover the Via Ferrata at Roc du Cornillon in Bourdeau. This aerial course accessible from age 8 offers spectacular views of Lake Bourget. Accompanied by a certified guide, enjoy a 2.5-hour adventure including monkey bridges, walkways, ladders, and nets. After a briefing and a 30-minute approach walk, you will be equipped for a safe and memorable experience.
The Via Ferrata Cascade of Nants, in Bellevaux
A 2.5-hour adventure for thrill-seekers. Located in Haute-Savoie, this guided activity includes obstacles like a walkway, a monkey bridge, a ladder, and a zip line, with spectacular views of waterfalls. The course is accessible to beginners from age 10.
The Via Ferrata of Abondance
This via ferrata circuit named Les Saix de Miolène is located in La Chapelle d’Abondance. It consists of three parts. The first is a good introduction to this sporting practice. The other two are more aerial and require a good level. Not far away, the Dranse river allows for white-water sports over 20 km such as rafting and hydrospeed.
The Via Ferrata of the cave at Carret
This magnificent via ferrata, at la Féclaz, is reserved for very skilled practitioners. It requires excellent physical condition. The program is varied: passing through an arch, crossing dizzying slabs, monkey bridge, Himalayan bridge, beam of the great roof, and an aerial exit on a pediglia (which is a handhold for one hand).
The departure is from the Doria parking lot at Les Déserts for a 55-minute walk. The return is made by the same route or via the Doria pass in 1 hour and 55 minutes. The site is open all year round.
The Via Ferrata le P’tchi
Located on the same site as the previous one, this via ferrata is also reserved for experienced individuals. You will enjoy the succession of aerial passages and “The Eye at Carret,” which is a historical curiosity. You have the option to branch off to the previous route. The “Jules’ Sidewalk” will allow you to reach the viewpoint of the Rocher de Charvettan.
Private Via Ferratas
Many clubs and event organizers offer you private Via Ferratas, which are much easier with fun zip line sections.
In general, this sport requires good physical condition and consideration of the weather before embarking.
You can watch videos of the different Via Ferratas to know the main difficulties.
There are also many climbing sites renowned near Annecy.
