Via Ferrata in Collias: an unusual, sporty, fun and quite thrilling activity!
According to the Larousse dictionary, a via ferrata (from the Italian “iron road”) is a “route built on a rock wall, equipped with cables and rungs allowing progression in complete safety”.
by Corine Meyer
FR - The first Via Ferrata was built in Austria in 1843, but it was during the First World War that the Italian military developed the concept in the Dolomites. They installed cables and ladders along immense walls in order to move men and equipment, including cannons, in these mountainous regions. The recreational Via Ferrata saw its growth in the 1990s and France currently features around 160 of them.
The Collias’s Via Ferrata, created by the “Bureau des moniteurs du Gard”, is no exception to the rule. It starts on the banks of the Gardon and rises for approximately 80 m on its limestone cliffs. The ascent is made easier by rungs, bars and natural holds. It is followed by the crossing of a rope bridge then two zip lines interspersed with passages on the mountainside. Finally, the descent of around 35 m is done by abseiling!The whole thing is secured by a lifeline cable on which you are permanently attached thanks to a double lanyard.
Even though one is tied up, this is a thrilling and challenging activity! The fear of heights is counterbalanced by the fun side of the course and the undeniable physical
effort is largely offset by the pleasure provided by this challenge. The beautiful landscape with breathtaking views of the Gardon only adds to the enjoyment. I really
enjoyed myself even if my muscles are still sore as I write this post 4 days later!
Unless you are experienced via ferratist, it is strongly recommended that you be accompanied by a professional guide who will provide you with the knowledge and necessary equipment.
We went there with “the Bureau des Moniteurs du Gard” (@bmg_collias), from Collias and really appreciated their
professionalism, patience and good sense of humor.
They were able to guide us, reassure us and assess our abilities in order to choose the route best suited for our group. These few sensational hours will remain forever engraved in our memory.
What about you? Are you ready to take on the challenge?
Sources : Historique de la via ferrata, Guides.
To read or reread our paper on The climbing rocks of La Capelle-et-Masmolène.
And for more thrilling adventure... Journey to the centre of the earth with the Comité Départemental de Spéléologie
du Gard and An introduction to caving, in Dions.
More information about the via ferrata : moniteursdugard.com, @bmg_collias.