Canyoning & Via Ferrata
Canyoning and Via Ferrata have quickly become popular mountains sports during the last few years
and you can easily understand why as they are great fun and adventurous but do not require any previous experience. So, what are these sports?
Canyoning
If you would like to visit spectacular waterfalls and canyons, not only from the viewing platform but actually walking, sliding, swimming and abseiling down one, you should try canyoning. It is sooo much fun! No previous skills required other than the ability to swim.
Your guide will make sure you have all the right equipment and instruct you on how to use it. He/she accompanyies the group at all times and you are not obliged to do any of the high jumps if you do not want to.
There are a few excellent spots for Canyoning not far from Chamonix:
Canyon de Balme (les Carroz)
This is an magnificent canyon and a perfect initiation to the sport as it covers all of the exciting features. You find 2 abseils (13m and 25m), jumps of different heights (non compulsory), fun slides and even a small underground passage. Easy to intermediate level, ½ day.
Canyon de Megève
Hidden in the middle of the forest close to the famous ski resort of Megève. You find jumps and abseils in a stunning environment with unusual rock formations. Easy to intermediate level, ½ day.
Canyon d’Angon (Annecy)
With 300m of vertical descent and an impressive view over the Annecy lake this canyon is a must-try if you can spare a full day. You encounter long abseils, jumps of various heights, fun slides and amazing surroundings. Intermediate level full day.
Via Ferrata
The original Via Ferratas were built in the Dolomites during the First World War to help the soldiers traversing the mountains. Many of the original Via Ferratas are still there and have been maintained but in addition many moderns ones have been built purely for pleasure. You are basically following a route up, down and along a rock face or mountainside. This route is sometimes a more or less exposed footpath, sometimes ladders or metal footsteps and the more modern Via Ferratas tend to even have fun features such as swing bridges and slack lines. Cables are attached to the rock to hold on to and clip yourself on to for security. You could say it is somewhere between climbing and trekking.
There are a few excellent spots for Via Ferrata not far from Chamonix:
Via Ferrata du Mont (Sixt/Samoens)
This Via Ferrata is a perfect initiation to the sport. It has a swing bridge and some really spectacular traverses. Easy level
.
Via Ferrata du Passy
There is a relatively easy and newly equipped Via Ferrata above Passy, just outside the Chamonix valley on a nice south facing rock face with amazing views of the Arve valley and the Mont Blanc range. Easy to intermediate level.
Via Ferrata du Jallouvre (Grand Bornand)
This route has real Alpine feel to it with a start above 2000m. The ibex and the marmottes might follow you along the easier sections but definitely not on the more challenging parts over bridges, swing bridges and up overhanging sections. Intermediate level.
Details
Duration: 1/2 day (morning 8h-13h or afternoon 13h-18h) or full 1 Day
2010 Dates: Any day
Group Size: 4-6
We can accept up to 8 people per guide but to avoid extended waiting time it is better to be no more then 6 per guide.
Ratio: 1:6
Included: Guide fee, group equipment, personal equipment (wetsuit, harness, helmet, via ferrata gear) & transport
For Canyoning you need to bring: swimsuit, towel, trainers that you do not mind getting wet, snack and drink.
For Via Ferrata you need to bring: good trainers or hiking boots, trousers or shorts, t-shirts, windproof jacket, snack or lunch and drink. Other useful items small rucksack and thin gloves with good grip.
Any questions, please contact our office.
Price per person: 75€ for 1/2 day or 105€ for full day based on min 4 people
For whom: Anybody with an adventurous mind. For Canyoning you should know how to swim and for Via Ferrata it is recommended to have a good head for heights. You do not need previous rock climbing experience.
If these types of activities appeal to you, you may also be interested in our six day Alpine Adventure and Via Ferrata programme.
