Via ferrata, via cordata et accrobranche

If you'd like to discover Courchevel and the Savoyard region through an unusual physical activity, opt for via ferrata or via cordata. Halfway between climbing and hiking, these activities are sure to give you a great time. With routes to suit every level, whether beginner or expert, your exploration of nature will be entertaining and unforgettable!

Although the practice of via ferrata is becoming more and more common, it still remains a mystery for many people. We explain it all to you!

A via ferrata is a route built along a rock face with various specific elements, such as a footbridge, a monkey bridge, a ladder or a ramp. Originally used by tourists and then by the Italian army, via ferrata has developed throughout Europe. It arrived in France in the 1980s, becoming a popular sport for children and adults alike.

Although this physical activity is available in many parts of France, Savoie remains an ideal place to practice it. Each course is unique and offers a magnificent view of nature, between mountain, lake and forest. The Aravis massif and Mont Blanc are a dream landscape to admire on your ferrata tours.

To ensure that your via ferrata adventure in the heart of the Alps is a wonderful souvenir of your holiday, it's important to think about your safety and remain cautious from start to finish.

Safety equipment is essential if you want your day to go off without a hitch. In particular, you must have the following essential equipment

- helmet

- harness

- lanyards

- pulley

- carabiner

- suitable footwear

If you're taking part in an activity offered by an organization, all the equipment will be provided or available for hire. However, it's perfectly possible to use your own if you're an enthusiast of the sport.

For your own safety, we strongly advise you not to try this activity on your own for the first time. Many establishments offer introductory courses, and the presence of a guide will enable you to acquire basic knowledge. In addition, never place anything in front of the pulley, especially your hands, and make sure you're always secured by the lifeline. Take a few minutes to warm up before you start.

No matter what your level, everyone can enjoy this extraordinary experience, as there are numerous routes in Savoie for beginners and experts alike. Routes are graded using letters: F for easy, PD for slightly difficult, AD for fairly difficult, D for difficult and TD for very difficult. The presence of a plus or minus next to the letters details the level of difficulty.

If you're a beginner, we have several routes to recommend. The Lac de la Rosière course is a gentle introduction to this activity, and you can even cross a Nepalese bridge. The Nant de Rossane course features rocky passages, monkey bridges and zip lines. The Le Diable course, on the other hand, is fairly straightforward and is even suitable for children.

If you'd like to enjoy an exceptional view of the Vanoise National Park while passing over a waterfall and various footbridges, La Cascade de la Fraiche is the route for you. If you prefer a view of Lac du Bourget, the Roc du Cornillon route is for you, located above the Col du Chat. The Via Ferrata de la Croix des Verdons is the highest in France and is also very aerial.

To perfect your level of via ferrata expertise, we suggest the Rois Mages route. With its monkey and Nepalese bridges, 83-metre-high footbridges and exceptional views, this itinerary demands a mastery of climbing and excellent physical condition. You can also take advantage of difficult passages on the Dent du Chat and Roc du Vent, to gain altitude.

We also recommend the Yves Pollet-Villars route in La Clusaz, with its 12-meter-long footbridge. Allow 4 hours between departure and return to the parking lot. Other trails are available in Saint-Jean-d'Arvey.

A sporting activity for all levels, via ferrata nevertheless requires a guide to help you learn the ropes.

The presence of a professional on your first routes ensures your safety throughout your activity in the mountains. Moreover, he or she will teach you the basics and provide you with the right equipment for your route.

To find a guide for your visit to Savoie, we recommend you visit the websites of the various towns offering this activity. Don't forget to check their certification and experience.

The Bureau des Guides de Courchevel offers a wide range of via ferrata activities, as well as verticality courses to introduce you to this sport.

To ensure that your stay in Savoie is both exceptional and entertaining, a wide range of leisure activities are available, so that you can enjoy this magnificent natural setting with your family or friends.

Although the mountains are often associated with skiing, they're also the ideal destination for summer, whether you're more into hiking, paragliding or swimming in the lakes.

Once you've completed your via ferrata, relax by booking a spa session, a gourmet meal in a Savoyard restaurant or take in the view from your accommodation as the sun sets over the mountains.

Savoie is a region that attracts many tourists, especially during the school vacations, so it's a good idea to plan ahead.

For the best via ferrata experience, we recommend spring, summer or autumn. Avoid winter, as snow and frost can make the course slippery and dangerous. Rainy or hot days should also be avoided for your safety.

The websites of via ferrata operators are the best place to find all the information you need for your stay, so you can choose your route, check prices and book.