Fixed rope routes

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Fixed rope routes

Via Farinetta

The Via Farinetta leads you through the wild and mysterious Salentze Gorge, where the thermal water of the Saillon Thermal Baths comes from. The trail shows you the cultural and natural wealth of Saillon and Leytron.

  • Difficulty

    difficult, D

    Difficulty : difficult
    D Vertical, sometimes overhanging terrain, mostly very exposed. Safety elements may be far apart. A sure foot, a good head for heights, excellent physical condition and a great deal of strength in arms and legs necessary. Via ferrata equipment obligatory. Not suitable for beginners or children

  • Length

    6.3 km

  • Duration

    4:00 h

  • Show on map
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It's the first Via Ferrata that connects the Rhone Valley with the surrounding mountains. The trail takes about 2-3 hours for climbing the 330m of altitude difference. It starts with an easy and family-friendly part (K3-K4/C). The second part ist more airy and physical and graded K4/C. The third, most difficult part (K5/D) demands advanced skills.

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Turn-by-turn directions

From the thermal spa at Saillon, walk about 2 km along the River Salentze to reach the start of the via ferrata, following the signs marked “Via Farinetta”. The first section leads steadily into the gorge and to a “bisse” irrigation channel, where there is a first exit. You then walk along a tunnel through which a historical “bisse” once flowed. Beyond the tunnel lies the most testing stretch of the via ferrata. A large work of art by Hans Erni – “The Dove of Peace” – hangs on the cliff; here, climbers can choose to exit the via ferrata or continue along the final section. This is reserved for experienced climbers with a high level of fitness and strengt. The “Passerelle à Farinet” – a suspension footbridge across the gorge – is accessible from each exit of the via ferrata. The best way back down is from the western end of the footbridge; the path leads through the forest and then the vineyards of Saillon to reach the centre of the village.

Start: Thermal baths in Saillon (467 m)
Destination: Thermal baths in Saillon (467 m)

Author's recommendation

The thermal spring water at “Les Bains de Saillon” comes from the gorges of the River Salentze. Just below the starting point of the Via Farinetta, there is a cave where you can enjoy a hot shower surrounded by nature

Technical information

  • Altitude

    817 m 465 m

  • Ascent

    400 m

  • Descent

    353 m

  • Technique

    Bewertung: .0 von 5.0 Punkten

  • Stamina

    Bewertung: 4 .0 von 5.0 Punkten

  • Experience

    Bewertung: 6 von 5.0 Punkten

  • Landscape

    Bewertung: 5 .0 von 5.0 Punkten

Best time of year

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
  • Geological highlights
  • Insider tip
  • Circular route
  • Cultural/historical interest
  • Completely cable-secured

Public transport

Frequent train connections to Sion or Martigny, from where a bus brings you to Saillon. The "St-Laurent" bus stop is situated at about 10 minutes from the via ferrata.

Approach

Highway A9 to the exit 24 (Riddes), then follow the "Route de Riddes" to the village of Leytron and afterwards the "Route de Saillon" to the village of Saillon.

Parking

Parking at the thermal bath of Saillon or at the centre of the village. Follow the local car park routeing.

Equipment

All climbers must wear a harness. Because of the risk of falling rocks along the route, a helmet is also essential. Ensure you have sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing, and bring a small rucksack with water and a snack. A suitable pair of gloves will protect your fingers and knuckles from grazes.

Safety information

Weather conditions: before setting off to tackle a via ferrata, it is important to check the weather forecast. Bad conditions can make climbing dangerous – particularly in stormy weather.

Rockfalls: because of the risk of falling rocks – usually caused by climbers higher up or by animals – all climbers are strongly advised to wear a helmet.

Safety: always leave sufficient distance between yourself and the climber ahead. There should never be more than one person between two anchor points.

Additional information

Rental:

  • Jean Pellissier Sport in Martigny

  • Follomi Sports in Sion

Find more information about the destination here:

Maps

SwissTopo Maps 1:25'000: 1305 Dent de Morcles