Have you ever wondered what it would be like to climb rock walls, cross vast chasms and explore inaccessible mountain nooks and crannies? Or perhaps you fantasize about the feeling of accomplishment after overcoming the difficulties, you reach the mountaintop and enjoy the breathtaking views? If so, then a Via Ferrata may be exactly what you are looking for.
Via Ferrata: Your Gateway to Spectacular Mountain Adventures
The Perfect Blend of Hiking and Climbing Adventure
We answer the following questions in this article:
1. What Is a Via Ferrata?
Via Ferrata literally means “iron road” in Italian. Walking or climbing on Via Ferratas is an unusual form of mountain activity, combining high-altitude hiking with climbing elements.
Via Ferratas comprise purpose-made trails equipped with metal ropes (steel cables), buckles, ladders and bridges, facilitating the crossing of more difficult sections and providing additional security.
You use the aforementioned metal rope for self-belaying by clipping into it with carabiners placed at the end of a lanyard attached to the harness you have on.
Look at the photo below: it shows a steel rope attached to a rock with metal pins embedded in it. Such rope fixings are usually in place every 2-3 metres, or so. In places where the Ferrata diverts, or on very difficult sections, the pins are even denser, and on easy, more level routes; less frequent. Why are these fixings so vital? Because they are the points, where the aforementioned carabiners (placed at the end of our lanyard) need to be clipped from one section of Ferrata rope to the next. (By the way, it is essential to remember never to unfasten two carabiners simultaneously: unfasten one -> clip it into the next section of rope, and only then unfasten the second carabiner and clip it into the new spot).
At the bottom right of the photo, you can see the red lunge clipped with carabiners to the rope, which at the other end is attached to the Lech’s harness taking the photo of me. I, on the other hand, am just at the point where the metal pin attaching the rope is hammered into the rock, so I’m re-clipping the carabiners to go further up. As you can judge by the concentrated expression on my face ? it takes a bit of effort on the vertical sections. However, you don’t have to start with such difficult Ferratas! Everything comes with time. There are easy Ferratas or sentiero attrezzato (Italian: protected paths) of difficulty A, A/B or B level to start with. Our GUIDEBOOKS include all the parameters to help you choose a suitable route.
2. Are Via Ferratas “Walked” or “Climbed” on?
It is necessary to start with the definition of the word CLIMBING: it is moving on terrain steep enough to require the use of one’s hands, at least for balance.
Thus, you “walk” and “climb” on Via Ferratas, depending on the particular section of the route. Walking: Most Via Ferratas feature easier sections reminiscent of traditional mountain trails, where you move mainly by walking. These routes, too, may include metal ropes, ladders, steps and bridges that facilitate more difficult sections of terrain and ensure safety. Climbing: Some sections of the Ferratas feature more technical and steeper sections where you are required to use not only your legs but also arms to traverse vertical rock walls, so you climb on these sections
3. How Did Via Ferratas Come About?
So, a Piece of History…
The Via Ferratas can be traced back to the 19th century when mountain hiking became popular and in vogue among wealthy tourists.
Chains and ladders were installed in the most dangerous places to facilitate climbing. The Hoher Dachstein route was equipped with such artificial aids as early as 1843, and in the following years, several routes in the Dolomites – first in the Brenta group and then in many other parts of the Dolomites – were equipped with protection: In Catinaccio – on the Passo Santner, the beautiful Ferrata Oskar Schuster leading to the Sassopiatto in the Sassolungo group, the Ferrata Scala Minighel in the Tofan area, or the legendary Ferrata Cresta Ovest leading to the highest peak of the Marmolada massif – Punta Penia (3343 m).
Ferratas were built and used by the military during the First World War to facilitate tactical movement in the mountains. After the war, some of these trails were adapted for tourist purposes, and their popularity grew gradually.
The real boom came in the 1960s and 1970s, when, mainly as a result of the efforts of local guides and donor funding, many new Ferratas were built, and the old ones leading to places connected with the history of the First World War were restored.
4. Can Anyone Try Out Via Ferratas?
Ferratas make a great option for an active holiday in a stunning location.
It’s hard to imagine another activity that engages our muscles to such an extent and yet is conducted in a more beautiful location and cleaner air.
Generally speaking, Via Ferratas suit most people. Of course, as with other physical activities, you need to prepare your body for the extra effort beforehand. Almost all your muscles are going to be working, and your heart will be beating faster as you conquer the heights. And that’s a good thing ? .
People suffering from a slight fear of heights or dread of open spaces may feel some discomfort when conquering high-altitude Ferratas, so it is a good idea to start with easier routes and progressively get used to being at height and in open mountain space. Based on our experience, most people overcome these fears and gradually progress to more difficult routes.
Our advice: when you are already high up and feel insecure, “your legs are buckling”, and you are short of breath when you look down – first, stop for a moment, try to breathe through your nose calmly, and – crucially – keep your gaze somewhere at a single point in the distance. Once you have calmed down a bit, move your gaze to another distant point and look there intently. The technique really helps, but give yourself time. Don’t expect to be ready for the craziest things on the first day ?.
5. Why Is It Worthwhile To Go on Via Ferratas?
Via Ferratas provide an extremely exciting form of activity, attracting mountain challenge enthusiasts from all over the world.
Here are 7 reasons why you should try Via Ferratas:
6. Where To Go on the First Via Ferrata?
Via Ferratas tend to be located in the Alps, especially in the Italian Dolomites, the French Maritime Alps, the Swiss Alps and the Austrian Alps.
However, the Dolomites are considered to be a mecca of Via Ferrata enthusiasts. It is a magnificent place where the extremely picturesque landscape, rich history and unique routes combine to create an incredible effect and attract many lovers of this active leisure pastime.
7. What Equipment Do You Need for Via Ferrata?
Check out our next BLOG post VIA FERRATA EQUIPMENT – what you need for Via Ferrata adventure!
