Fixed rope routes

Via Ferrata in Les Gentianes

Verbier

-3/2°

This via ferrata enjoys a high-altitude alpine setting at more than 3,000 metres above sea level. Discover a thrilling route on a compact rocky outcrop framed by edelweiss and rock jasmine, with magnificent views of the Val de Bagnes. The information provided corresponds to that of the Via Ferrata "Edelweiss", the easiest of the two. (Edelweiss and Androsace)

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

1.13 km

Duration

42 m

Grossartige Aussicht von der Spitze der Via Ferrata aus

Description

The Edelweiss is a route ideal for people who have little experience or who wish to warm up before tackling the Androsace itinerary, located close by. Along the Edelweiss via ferrata, you can spot Switzerland’s iconic plant – and perhaps some of the wildlife of the Val de Bagnes, including ibex. The 900 rungs and nearly 800 metres of cable offer you a unique access to the summit of the ridge of the Monts de Cion, with glorious views of the Mont Fort, the Tortin Glacier and the valley.

Turn-by-turn directions

From the Col des Gentianes, pale-blue signs show the direction of the Monts de Cion, at an altitude of 2,950 m. Allow about 20 minutes to walk to the starting point of the via ferrata. The ascent proper features a combination of sequences of rungs, a cable bridge and several vertical passages, with superb views along the way. The route finishes at a flat and spacious section of the ridge that offers you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery.

At the summit of the Monts de Cion, follow the exit trail that leads you back to the starting point. From here, you can also tackle the Androsace (“rock primrose”) via ferrata, which is more difficult.

Start

Col des Gentianes (2893m)

Destination

Sommet des Monts-de-Cion (2893m)

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Author's recommendation

The via ferrata is equipped with a Prisme Aeroligne continuous life line system. Compatible equipment is available for hire from the restaurant Les Gentianes, located by the cable car summit station (CHF 20.- / set). It is also possible to use via ferrata kits with traditional lanyards that meet the EN 958/2017 standard, throughout the itinerary.

Technical information

Altitude

3038m

2889m

Ascent

+152m

Descent

-152m

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

Public transport

Train services operate regularly between Martigny and Le Châble, departure point for the “Le Châble–Verbier” gondola and also for PostBuses up to Verbier.

From Sion, there is a regular PostBus service to Nendaz.

Approach

From the Verbier side: “Verbier–Les Ruinettes” gondola, then “La Chaux Express” gondola/chairlift, then “Jumbo” cable car.

From the Nendaz side: “Siviez–Tortin” chairlift, then “Tortin–Gentianes” cable car.

The via ferrata is free of charge; access via the gondolas and chairlifts is payable (“4 Vallées” lift pass).

Parking

Parking places are available at Le Châble and also in the centre of the resorts of Nendaz and Verbier.

Source

This activity is brought to you by Valais/Wallis Promotion