Top 10 Via Ferratas in France
Halfway between hiking, climbing and sporty sightseeing, via ferrata offers not only an opportunity to push your limits but also to enjoy breathtaking panoramas. From the towering peaks to the mesmerizing cliffs, doing a via ferrata in France is an opportunity to experience the majestic diversity of landscapes!
A via ferrata, which translates as an iron path in Italian, is a route built into a rock wall with fixed ropes, ladders, bridges, zip lines, and more, with their purpose being to facilitate progression and ascent.
Whether done in the traditional way or just for fun, the idea of a via ferrata course is to follow a rope, which is sometimes metal, fixed in the rock with relay points and specific steps. One of the great things about this activity is that it can be enjoyed with family and friends, but a word to the wise, we would recommend you tell the most fearful members of the group to avoid looking down.
France's breathtaking mountain ranges like the Alps and Pyrenees and its diverse territory offers an abundance of perfect natural places for a via ferrata! Whether you're a novice or an experienced climber, you'll enjoy an unforgettable adventure in the heights of French nature!
1. Via ferrata in Pont du Diable, Ardèche
The via ferrata in Pont du Diable in Ardèche, near Aubenas and Vals-les-Bains, offers a vertiginous adventure in the heart of a spectacular landscape. Nestled in the Ardèche gorges, this activity allows thrill-seekers to challenge the heights while enjoying breathtaking views of rock formations and the tumultuous waters of the Ardèche river.
The impressive route is enhanced by suspended passages, monkey bridges and a 90-metre zip line, offering a varied experience that tests the physical and mental stamina of adventurers. The climb up the rock faces is facilitated by metal ladders, specially fitted holds and cables, ensuring maximum safety while preserving the authenticity of the experience. This unforgettable adventure is perfect if you are an occasional sportsperson. Get ready for an adrenalin-fuelled half-day of discovery in the heart of an exceptional natural environment.
2. Via ferrata in Liaucous near Millau, Gorges du Tarn
The via ferrata de Liaucous, near Millau, is a thrilling adventure in the heart of the majestic Gorges du Tarn. Set among the impressive cliffs and breathtaking panoramas of the Aveyron region, this half-day via ferrata is both varied and fun, as you'll face several obstacles - though you'll have the choice of two routes!
You will be invited to explore vertical rock faces using ladders, cables and metal rungs, providing thrills while guaranteeing optimum safety. The Liaucous via ferrata will appeal to outdoor enthusiasts with its aerial sections offering breathtaking views over the Cherry Valley and the confluence of the Jonte and Tarn rivers. Suspended walkways and zip lines add a dose of excitement to this vertical adventure. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber, doing a via ferrata in Gorges du Tarn offers a challenge to suit all levels, in an exceptional natural setting that takes the experience to unforgettable heights. To round off this magnificent experience, you'll finish with a zip line tour.
3. Via ferrata in Ospédale, Corsica
The via ferrata de l'Ospedale, just 20 minutes from Porto-Vecchio in Corsica, offers a unique climbing experience in an exceptional natural setting. Nestling in the heart of the Ospedale massif, this via ferrata allows you, the adventurer, to discover the wild beauty of the Isle of Beauty while challenging your physical and mental limits. The route takes in steep rock faces and narrow ledges, offering breathtaking 360° panoramic views over the Lac de l'Opsédale and the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio.
Climbing enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the diversity of Corsican landscapes, from lush forests to rocky ridges. Trying a via ferrata in Corsica is the best way to combine adrenaline, adventure and landscape discovery. You'll have two routes to choose from: one suitable for beginners and another for the more athletic climbers... You'll even have the option of trying out the zip line!
4. Via ferrata in Trou du Renard, Verdon Gorge
The via ferrata in Trou du Renard, nestling in the heart of the Gorges du Verdon, is a captivating vertical adventure offering an unforgettable climbing experience in one of France's most emblematic natural sites. This activity is slightly different from the classic via ferrata, in that it uses ropes rather than metal cables. This spectacular route allows thrill-seekers to soar above the turquoise waters of the Verdon, while immersing themselves in the impressive cliffs that define this unique environment. This activity offers a variety of challenging sections, testing the skills of adventurers while ensuring maximum safety.
Get ready to jump off a 40-metre-long zip line! Be aware that this via cordata is quite aerial, perched around 200 metres above the river and the cliffs, so it's not recommended for people with vertigo. Whether you're a novice or an expert climber, a via ferrata in the Verdon gorge offers a thrilling experience in an exceptional natural setting that will transport you to the heart of the wild beauty of the landscape. And if by any chance you'd like to enjoy another thrilling activity in the area, why not try rafting in the Gorges du Verdon?
5. Via ferrata in Tourmalet, National Park of the Pyrenees
Set in a wild canyon, the via ferrata in Tourmalet, in the Pyrenees promises an atypical experience in the heart of nature! This activity in the heart of the Pyrenees is nestled at the foot of the Tourmalet pass and the source of the Adour river. This vertical route offers climbing enthusiasts an unforgettable experience, combining the natural beauty of the region with the excitement of via ferrata climbing. You will be of course rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the Pic du Midi de Bigorre. The course is strategically laid out, offering a playful route with monkey bridge zip lines and aerial swing climbs...
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber, a via ferrata in the Pyrenees offers a thrilling experience, combining the adrenalin of climbing with the natural splendor of this exceptional mountain landscape. And if by any chance you fancy taking to the skies above the Hautes-Pyrénées, try your hand at tandem paragliding near Bagnères-de-Bigorre!
6. Via ferrata in Calanque de Sormiou near Marseille
The via ferrata of the Calanques de Sormiou offers a spellbinding adventure along the superb Mediterranean cliffs. Did you know that the word "sormiou" comes from the Provençal language and means "the best spring"? Indeed, the presence of freatic slicks beneath the calanque enabled fishermen to take advantage of the clear water from the 14th to the 20th century!
Nestling in the heart of the Calanques National Park, this 4-hour activity allows climbing enthusiasts to enjoy a unique blend of craggy rocks on vertical sections, turquoise sea, and Mediterranean beauty and vegetation. You'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Marseille's calanques, especially on aerial passages! This activity offers an unforgettable experience, although it is recommended for sporty types! Surrounded by an expert guide, you'll be briefed on the techniques of this sport, and once you've been issued with the necessary equipment, you can begin your adventure in complete safety. When we talk via ferrata above the sea, it also means water reflection and a sea wind blowing through your hair, so don't forget your sun cream and sunglasses. What could be better than taking a deep breath of fresh air while pushing your limits in a unique environment?
7. Via ferrata of the Baztan rocks near Biarritz
This via ferrata of the Baztan rocks, just 45 minutes from Biarritz, offers an adventure at the gateway to the Pyrenees. The Rochers du Baztan spot is the perfect place to try out an activity that combines accrobranche, via ferrata and a 1.20 metre zip line, all at the same time!
You'll be walking along a 30-metre-high cliff in the heart of the Basque Country, overlooking the canyon as you go, in complete safety. Whether you're in a group, with your family or with friends, this is your chance to share a unique moment in an original setting. During this 2-hour via ferrata excursion in Biarritz, you'll push your limits in a wild, mountainous setting! Young and old, novices and experts alike will be delighted by this route between trees and rock faces. Just 10 minutes from the Spanish border, you can then make the most of the region and its coastline, with its many surprising activities... Why not stop off at the seaside to ride the waves, for example? Surfing in Hossegor is considered to be a not-to-be-missed activity, as this spot is one of the best places for the sport in France!
8. Via ferrata in Trou Souffleur, La Ciotat
La Ciotat! This sunny commune in the Bouches-du-Rhône département is the perfect spot for fun and exciting activities. Located 31 kilometers from Marseille, the destination has the perfect climate for outdoor experiences! La Ciotat is not only a top tourist destination, it's also a land of history and the arts, as well as a unique natural territory. The via cordata at Trou Souffleur is a unique way to discover the magnificent cliffs of southern Provence. If you're a fan of adventure and natural scenery, doing a via ferrata in la Ciotat will not leave you indifferent.
Close your eyes and let yourself imagine the sound of the force of the water and the crash of the waves against the cliffs... As well as breathing in the fresh sea air, you'll be dazzled by the wild beauty of the surrounding area for half a day. There's no need to wear climbing shoes, because on this via cordata in La Ciotat you can wear trainers or hiking boots.
9. Via ferrata in Cirque d’Endieu, Ardèche
Take to the skies on this via ferrata in the cirque d'Endieu in the Ardèche! You'll have the chance to climb the cliffs in the Gorges du Chassezac and admire the magnificent wooded landscapes of the region, as well as the Casteljau peninsula. You'll also have a breathtaking view of the Bois de Païolive, a veritable natural labyrinth, a forest of rock and white oak dating back to the dawn of time. Doing a via ferrata in the Ardèche means enjoying a majestic place, because as well as being a protected area, the zone is home to many rare animal and plant species.
The activity takes place over half a day, starting with a walk, a descent along a steep path and then arriving at the famous cliff to attack! The Chassezac river has carved out some huge gorges, so you'll find yourself in the middle of breathtaking rock faces. This via cordata takes around 1h30 and is the perfect way to get a bird's eye view of the most beautiful spots in the Ardèche.
10. Via ferrata in Tolla near Ajaccio, Corsica
Located on the Isle of Beauty, the via ferrata in Tolla near Ajaccio is a 3-hour adventure between land and sea. Combining hiking and climbing, the route takes you close to the Tolla lake and the Prunelli valley. Along the way, you'll follow the via ferrata cable, to which you'll be attached the whole way. The meeting point for your activity is to be arranged with the instructor once you have booked the activity.
Make sure you bring comfortable sportswear, a bottle of water, and a small snack to keep you going - everything else is provided by the instructor. Although this activity is recommended for people who do sport occasionally, it is not recommended for people who are afraid of heights and prone to dizziness. The route is made up of various obstacles, including an impressive monkey bridge! Some of the sections can be difficult, and it's important to remember that this is a high-mountain activity, so beginner level is not recommended - it's better to already have some experience to avoid unpleasant surprises!
Find your next via ferrata all over the world!
If you enjoyed this article on the best via ferrata in France, then we recommend that you discover the most incredible spots in the world!
Perhaps you'd like to stay on earth but try out other activities that are just as exciting. Why not try a hike on the Soufrière volcano in Guadeloupe. And if you want to travel around Europe, don't worry, we've got a wide choice of routes in Norway or Sweden, whether it's hiking, trekking or many others... So what are you waiting for, lace up your boots and set off along the dizzying routes?