Via ferrata
Climb your way up
Via ferrata have become a very popular summer activity, which consists of climbing the mountain using a sequence of rungs, ladders, cable bridges and rope ladders, and is great for those who are not afraid of heights. For this activity, you need a helmet, a harness and lanyards, all of which can be hired in Verbier.
At Les Gentianes, there are two itineraries, both of which bring you to the Monts de Cion, above 3,000 m, in a fabulous alpine setting. One is more exposed than the other, but both are equipped with a security system which allows you to stay attached at all times and helps keep you safe.
If you are a beginner and wish to be accompanied, contact the Verbier mountain guides office.
Via Ferrata des Gentianes - Edelweiss
Route Edelweiss (blue):
Level of difficulty: moderate (K3)
Estimated length: 150 m
Vertical climb: 100 m
Altitude at start: 2,950 m
Altitude at finish: 3,041 m
The route 2 is recommanded for people who measure at least 1m40.
The descent is the same for both routes.
To climb the Via Ferrata, you’ll need a helmet, harness and lanyards. Full kit can be hired at the “Les Gentianes” restaurant. The price for a kit rental (helmet, harness and lanyards) is 20 CHF. You can also use your own equipment (including traditional lanyards).
WARNING: for security reasons, the sets are only intended for people who have a weight between 50kg-100kg.
Hiring a guide is not essential. However, if you do not have extensive experience in this sport, they charge by the day, in the same way as on guided climbing trips.
The two routes are equipped with an “aéroligne” lifeline safety system which prevents improper usage and restricts the risks for users.
How to get there:
From the top station of “Le Jumbo” cable car if you come from Verbier.
From Nendaz, take the Siviez-Tortin chairlift and then the Tortin-Gentianes lift.
The Via Ferrata is free to use. Only the ski lifts have to be paid for with the 4 Vallées pass.
The lifts are free for both VIP Pass and Openair pass holders.
Via Ferrata des Gentianes - Androsace
Route Androsace (red):
Level of difficulty: very difficult - K5
Estimated length: 340 m
Altitude difference: 141 m
Altitude at starting point: 2,900 m /Altitude at finish: 3,041 m
The route 2 is recommanded for people who measure at least 1m40.
The descent is the same for both routes.
To climb the Via Ferrata, you’ll need a helmet, harness and lanyards. Full kit can be hired at the “Les Gentianes” restaurant. The price for a kit rental (helmet, harness and lanyards) is 20 CHF. You can also use your own equipment (including traditional lanyards).
WARNING: for security reasons, the sets are only intended for people who have a weight between 50kg-100kg.
Hiring a guide is not essential. However, if you do not have extensive experience in this sport, they charge by the day, in the same way as on guided climbing trips.
The two routes are equipped with an “aéroligne” lifeline safety system which prevents improper usage and restricts the risks for users.
How to get there:
From the top station of “Le Jumbo” cable car if you come from Verbier.
From Nendaz, take the Siviez-Tortin chairlift and then the Tortin-Gentianes lift.
The Via Ferrata is free to use. Only the ski lifts have to be paid for with the 4 Vallées pass.
The lifts are free for both VIP Pass and Openair pass holders.
Edelweiss - Blue
This route is equipped solely with ladders which are fixed to the rock and security cables. It is never too exposed, so it’s ideal for children aged 8 and over (accompanied by a professional) or anyone else who wants to enjoy the climb without any pressure.
In brief:
- Level of difficulty: moderate (K3)
- Estimated length: 150 m
- Vertical climb: 100 m
- Altitude at start: 2,950 m
- Altitude at finish: 3,041 m
Androsace - Red
This is a more challenging route, which takes you south of the Monts de Cion. You will cross a cable bridge and even tackle an overhang! It is not recommended for anyone who measures less than 1,40 m.
In brief:
- Level of difficulty: very difficult (K5)
- Estimated length: 340 m
- Vertical climb: 141 m
- Altitude at start: 2,900 m
- Altitude at finish: 3,041 m
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