3 via ferratas in the Catalan Pyrenees not to be missed

ByNoelia Novoa

Vertical trails, equipped trails, ropeways, aerial trekking... etc. Via ferratas are in fashion and have become a mountain speciality suitable for everyone.

These routes take place in natural adventure terrain, generally with an aerial and vertical character, which implies the use of technical material and some specific training depending on the level of the route.

Hello, I am NoeliaI am a canyoning and caving guide, underground cave explorer and tour guide. In addition, I give training courses and, of course, via ferratas.

In this article I show you 3 top via ferratas in the Pre-Pyrenees and Catalan PyreneesThe area is easy to access and has breathtaking scenery.

Do you dare?

The via ferratas are mountain routes equipped with different support elements such as anchors, steps, footbridges, Tibetan bridges, Nepalese bridges, chains, zip lines and artificial dams, among others, which facilitate progression on vertical or exposed terrain. They are totally or partially protected by a cable, the function of which is to prevent the athlete from falling and, only if necessary, to hold on to it. The following is required climbing harness, dissipator, rest line, gloves and helmet to ensure safe climbing.

In 1492, Captain Antoine de Ville is said to have reached the inaccessible summit of Mont Aiguille in France with the help of a ladder. Years later, in 1843, the normal route to the Hoher Dachstein peak (2,996 metres) in Austria was equipped with a cable to facilitate access for mountaineers.

However, what could be considered the first via ferrata was the 3,343-metre west edge of the Marmolada to La Punta di Penià. At the beginning of the 20th century, around 1903, it already had sections of cable and pegs to facilitate climbing.

The best-known via ferratas originate from the First World War, in the Dolomites, between 1914-1918, when they were installed for the necessity of artillery and surveillance emplacements between Italy and Austria.

The grading of a via ferrata is determined by several factors.

  • Technical difficulty of the sections: it is the incline (vertical or extra steep) and the type and number of existing grips that indicate that one route is more athletic than another.
  • Track length: The longer it is, the greater the effort, which can make it more difficult to overcome the athletic sections.
  • Psychological factor: the majesty of the surrounding environment and the feeling of emptiness directly influence the level of mental demand.
  • Approach: a long approach will generate additional physical wear and tear.

The Hüsler System (Germany), classifies via ferratas by means of a letter K (from Klettersteigwhich means via ferrata in German) followed by a number indicating the level of difficulty:

  • K1 - EASY: No major difficulties. Passages protected by cable/wire.
  • K2 - MEDIUM: Vertical sections with metal steps/bars.
  • K3 - QUITE DIFFICULT: Vertical sections requiring mandatory safety equipment.
  • K4 - HARD: Requires arm strength. Small foot and hand rests.
  • K5 - VERY DIFFICULT: Very vertical sections. Requires climbing experience and good arm strength.
  • K6 - EXTREMELY DIFFICULT: They require a lot of arm strength. The use of climbing shoes is recommended.

And now that you know the basics about via ferratas, I present to you three cool routes Let's discover them!

Featured:

Via Ferrata Teletubbies Olmo Soler

Difficulty: K2; Length: 1.5km; Elevation gain: 127m; Drop: 0;

It is about a very accessible via ferrata for everyone, even for families with children.. By having two distinct sections and with the possibility of escape between one and the other, it is ideal to experience the first sensations in the vertical world of ferratas..

It is located in a place that is sure to fascinate anyone, with views of the famous gorge. Congost de Montrebei (Lérida) and the Canelles reservoir. The views alone are worth a visit.

The route combines a more vertical first section with some artificial dams, chains and a staircase, ending at the beautiful ridge of TeletubbiesFrom there, we will have impressive views of the reservoir. From there, the route continues (with exit option) going up the Olmo-Soler equipped roadA path equipped with chains and some staples that gradually gains altitude until it leads to the same hermitage of La Pertusafrom where we will be able to observe the Congosto de Montrebei and the walls of Catalonia and Aragon.

EYE! The car park has recently been regulated and it is necessary to reserve a parking space in advance in the Pertusa car park.

Here is the link:

https://app.appsmartpay.com/services/aparcament-ager-la-pertussa/booking

Via Ferrata Paret de les Arcades

Difficulty: K3-K5; Length: 2km; Climb: 74m; Desplomes: 1 (optional);

This via ferrata is located in the region of Pallars Jussànear the town of Cellers and on the waters of the Congost de Terradets.

It offers a a very varied routewith horizontal flanks, bridges, vertical sections, overhangs and even a hilarious pendulum with a jump into the void... pure adrenaline! (Overhang K4+/K5 optional).

This is a graduation ferrata. K3but also very accessible, although a bit more technical than the previous one. Here we will have to use a bit more arm strength and test our skills passing bridges and jumping on the pendulum, which is totally optional.

With beautiful views, it is well worth a visit!

Via Ferrata Salt del Botanal

Difficulty: K3/k5; Length: 2.5km; Elevation gain: 327m; Desplomes: 2 (optional);

We travelled to the small village of Alinsin the very heart of the Pyrenees, in the Pallars Sobirà.

The via ferrata of the Salt del Botanal is located in a high mountain environment, surrounded by an incomparable landscape with beautiful views of the Pyrenees.

Its graduation depends on the chosen itinerary, it may be K3 o K5. If we opt for the K5 option, we will have to do a very demanding descent; if we opt for the K3 option, we will be able to do a more relaxed ascent, although also very technical.

This is a route with athletic climbing steps and the occasional vertical slab to overcome. In addition, we will face an aerial bridge (optional) of 50 meters long, with breathtaking views of the Pyrenees!

In short, a spectacular via ferrata with a route that combines hiking and climbing.

The return journey to the car park is a nice hike from the viewpoint of the Salt del Botanalwhich coincides with the way down from the fallas on the traditional night of Sant Joan!

Well, if you have reached this point and you are still wanting more, on my website you can find many other via ferratas that I usually do with my clients. Don't hesitate any longer...

shall we go ferrata?