What is Via Ferrata and where can you practice it?

 Via Ferrata is a mountaineering term. Originally Italian it means "iron road" and thus gives a good definition of the term. A via ferrata is a route laid out with steel cables along a rock face. This steel cable is attached to the rock at regular intervals (maximum 6 m) by means of hooks and is primarily intended to protect the user. In addition, people often use the cable to keep themselves in balance or to pull themselves up on it. In addition to the steel cable, you will also find other aids on a via ferrata (especially on the more difficult parts), such as supports for hands and feet, (suspension) bridges and descent ropes, but also death rides and rappels. In French one speaks (also) of Via Ferrata or chemin câblé. In German from Klettersteig.

In a via ferrata, the route is set out with steel cables that are anchored to the rock wall every 2-8m. The steel cables are intended as a self-belay for the mountaineer, because he will click the carabiners of his via ferrata set (braking system) onto it. The mountaineer can also use the cables to climb up or to keep his balance. Often other aids such as U-irons, markers (with or without foot plates), steps, (suspension) bridges, tyroliennes, etc. are provided on the more difficult passages. This also makes it possible as a 'regular' mountain hiker to conquer steep rock walls and jagged mountain peaks without having to be a mountain or sport climber.

In fact, it is a discipline between mountain hiking and climbing, for which you need limited specific equipment, but above all the necessary judgment is a must.

In both the Dolomites and the Alps there are many great routes to follow, taking you on a tour of some of the most breathtaking mountain ranges in the world. From the Sella Ronda to the high Alps, there are some of the best Via Ferrate Routes in Italy. See: Via Ferrata / Klettersteig books.
A via ferrata was also built in the Netherlands, which has become known beyond the national borders as Via Ferrata Fliegerhorst Venlo.

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