Via ferrata in the Alpes Vaudoises : 6 challenging routes to reach new heights

Fancy reaching new heights, pushing your limits and discovering the Alpes Vaudoises from a different angle? Set amongst rock faces, forests, waterfalls and alpine panoramas, via ferratas offer a unique way to explore the mountains, allowing thrill-seekers to get started on an enjoyable route or take on a more challenging one.
Whether athletic, aerial, technical or fun: every via ferrata has its own character. From Bex to Les Diablerets, via Leysin, here are six routes to discover for a vertical adventure in the heart of the Alpes Vaudoises.

The Lavanchy via ferrata in Bex: short, intense and wild

Tucked away in the heart of the forest, above Bex, the Lavanchy via ferrata is a short route… but a particularly challenging one. From Pont-de-Nant, a 25-minute approach leads to this short, 200-metre via ferrata.
Its compact route demands commitment and energy: don’t be fooled by the length of the route. The route is described as easy, but its intense and challenging nature makes it a great outing for those who want to test their skills on the rock over a relatively short distance.
The Lavanchy via ferrata is best enjoyed in summer, set in a woodland environment that gives it a particularly wild atmosphere. Those who wish can take the opportunity to visit the lovely mountain botanical garden La Thomasia, located in Pont-de-Nant.

The Dar Waterfall via ferrata: the physical challenge of Les Diablerets

The Dar Waterfall via ferrata offers a thrilling and demanding experience. Its 400-metre route is classified as difficult, making it one of the most physically demanding in the Alpes Vaudoises.
From the Col du Pillon, it takes about 15 minutes’ walk to reach the start, very close to the waterfall and at the foot of the massif. Once you’ve grabbed hold of the first cables, the real challenge begins: the route demands strength, agility and a good dose of composure.
The reward? A climb right up close to the waterfall and a spectacular view over the Ormonts Valley, set against a backdrop of mountain peaks and with the roar of the water as a soundtrack.

The Rocher Jaune via ferrata in Les Diablerets: climbing high up the cliff face

Also known as the Tête aux Chamois via ferrata, the Rocher Jaune via ferrata is aimed at experienced climbers. Classified as difficult, it perfectly illustrates the athletic nature of via ferrata, which lies halfway between rock climbing and high-mountain hiking.

Situated near the Cabane des Diablerets, it is easily accessible via the Glacier 3000 ski lifts: from the gondola’s midway station, it is about a 15-minute walk to the start of the route.
Here, the altitude is an integral part of the experience: the route winds its way along the yellow-hued cliff face, overlooking a drop that makes even the most seasoned climbers’ blood run cold. The rock, the equipment and the high-mountain environment combine to create a route reserved for climbers who are sufficiently comfortable with this type of terrain.

The ‘Dames Anglaises’ via ferrata in Les Diablerets: a high-mountain atmosphere

In Les Diablerets, the ‘Dames Anglaises’ via ferrata is also a step up in difficulty. Rocky and alpine in character, it resembles a secured climbing route more than a leisurely via ferrata. It therefore requires a good knowledge of the mountains and techniques for progressing over rocky terrain.
The adventure begins well before the first cables: the start is about a 45-minute walk from the Pierredar refuge. This can be reached via the Prapio path (white-red-white) or the Drudy path (white-blue-white alpine route), in 3 to 4 hours. You can stop there for a break or spend the night before tackling the via ferrata (booking required).
The route then winds through spectacular scenery, with the Prapio Glacier and the peaks of the Diablerets massif as a backdrop. The distinctly alpine atmosphere, rocky sections and mountainous surroundings are what give this iconic via ferrata its character; there’s no need to worry, however, as the Three Ladies watch over the climbers…

The Tour d’Aï via ferrata: an exceptional view of Lake Geneva from Leysin

Head to Leysin to discover one of the most iconic via ferratas in the Alpes Vaudoises. Situated high above the resort, the Tour d’Aï via ferrata is technical, high up and spectacular. It is suitable for people in good physical condition who are comfortable with heights.
As you climb, cables, metal rungs and exposed sections guide climbers to the summit at 2,331 metres. And when the time comes to look up, the view is well worth the effort: the Alpes Vaudoises, Lake Geneva, the Dents du Midi, Mont Blanc and even the Jura – on a clear day – stretch as far as the eye can see.
Allow around one to two hours for the ascent of the via ferrata, plus the approach and return journey.

The Plan Praz via ferrata in Leysin: fun, but very physically demanding

The Plan Praz via ferrata offers a radically different experience. Not particularly high up but very physically demanding, it focuses on variety and playing with the rock: rope bridges, beams, footbridges and ladders punctuate the various sections of the route.
Set out beneath the Leysin–Berneuse cable cars and partly within the forest, it offers a more intimate atmosphere than the high-altitude routes. Its playful nature nevertheless masks a first section that places heavy demands on your arms, and a final section that still requires plenty of energy, particularly with its two large vertical ladders.
There are also two exit points, allowing you to tailor the route to your ability and fitness level. It takes around an hour to complete the via ferrata, depending on your pace and the exit you choose. Access is on foot from Leysin, through an enchanting, lush woodland setting.

Which via ferrata should you choose in the Alpes Vaudoises ?

With six routes, each with its own distinct character, the Alpes Vaudoises offer an experience to suit every taste.
• For a short, intense outing: the Lavanchy via ferrata in Bex
• For a physical challenge: the Cascade du Dar via ferrata in Les Diablerets
• To experience high-altitude climbing: the Rocher Jaune via ferrata in Les Diablerets
• For a genuine high-mountain atmosphere: the Dames Anglaises via ferrata in Les Diablerets
• For exceptional views: the Tour d’Aï via ferrata in Leysin
• For a fun and challenging route: the Plan Praz via ferrata in Leysin
A via ferrata remains a mountain activity that requires suitable equipment, thorough preparation and a realistic assessment of your abilities. Weather conditions and route accessibility can also change: always check with the Tourist Offices or the Alpes Vaudoises Guides’ Office before setting off. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact them to arrange an introductory session or to be accompanied by a professional.

So, which via ferrata will you choose for your next vertical adventure in the Alpes Vaudoises ?