Via ferrata and via cordata
A via ferrata is a mountain route equipped with iron rungs, ladders, and steel cables. Via cordata follows the same spirit, but on natural rock while roped to the instructor. Two ways to explore the heights safely.
Climb high with confidence
Via ferrata allows anyone in good physical condition to progress up a cliff like a climber, without prior climbing technique. You move forward clipped to a continuous cable, using rungs and steps fixed into the rock, sometimes crossing a footbridge or a zipline. It’s the perfect bridge between hiking and climbing.
Via cordata, which is rarer, is practiced on the same type of terrain but without fixed equipment: you move on natural rock, roped to the instructor, in a rawer, wilder spirit.
Our routes in the
Ossau Valley
Route 01
Siala Via Ferrata — Gourette
The great high-altitude classic above the Gourette resort. Panoramas of Pic du Ger and Ossau, spectacular ziplines.
Full day → 1,750 m altitude
Route 02
Via Cordata du Hourat — Laruns
A more secluded route, roped to the instructor, on natural rock. The perfect compromise between vertical hiking and easy climbing.
Half day → 1,100 m
Frequent
Do you need to not have a fear of heights?
A certain comfort with heights is useful, but many people who suffer from vertigo are surprised to find they adapt very well. The feeling of security provided by the lanyards changes everything.
Difference between via ferrata and via cordata?
Via ferrata is fully equipped (rungs, continuous cable) — everyone clips themselves in. Via cordata is done on natural rock, roped to the instructor who belays from above.