Via Ferrata

Via Ferrata are routes through the mountains that are protected using metal cables, ladders, staples and even bridges. The term is Italian where Via Ferrata means Iron Way they are also referred to as Klettersteig in German. Via Ferrata offers the user a safe protected way through the mountains allowing those of lesser experience to enjoy the high exposed places in safety. Via Ferrata really started in the Dolomites as a way of moving military personnel round the mountains in safety. These war times routes are now maintained and available for anyone to enjoy.

The activity of Via Ferrata has now spread across the Alps and to other parts of the world though the new Via Ferrata may not have the history of the Dolomite routes they offer fantastic routes through the mountains climbing peaks and ridges on the longer routes or climbing some impressively steep crags on the shorter modern ones.

Like most aspects of mountaineering the routes are graded, the systems used vary from country to country but they all follow a progressive system allowing the user to progress through the grades. There is far less equipment involved than other mountain pursuits all you need is a harness, helmet, good footwear and a fall arrest system is essential this absorbs the load should you take a fall so keeping the climber safe.

British Mountain Guides offer training and guiding in the selection and use of Via Ferrata equipment, we can show you the ropes on an easy Via Ferrata then move onto some of the steeper longer routes or just give you the necessary skills to explore and develop on your own. There are great Via Ferrata right across the Alps so where ever you are interesting in trying this great activity British Mountain Guides are here to help you develop the skills and enjoy some great mountain experiences.