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VIA FERRATA

Poi d'Unha Via Ferrata

Unha, one of the most charming villages in Naut Aran, gives its name to the 2,221m mountain where runs this superb itinerary. Installed in 2014 it is 800 meters long, ranked among the longest in Spain. Three sections with different grades were accommodated so it could be accessible for everyone and with a variety of options when choosing where to end the route and start the descent.

The access from Unha Parking lot (1350m) to the start of the route takes only 25’.

Duration: 3-4h ascent + 1h descent

Elevation gain: 500m

Les Via Ferrata

In the village of Les, well known for its sulphurous waters and its prestige in the Middle Age we find this protected climbing route of 450 meters long divided into two sections: the lower one only for experts, and the upper one suitable for everyone. It has an impressive tibetan bridge.

The access, short, is carried through the trail that goes to the right after 100 meters from the entrance to Cauarca camping.

Duration: 3h ascent + 1h descent

Elevation gain: 150m

Eth Taro d'Arties Via Ferrata

Arties, Naut Aran population is located at 1,144 meters high right at the confluence between the Garona River and its tributary Valarties. It has two historical monuments that well worth a visit: the Romanesque church of Santa María de Artíes and the Gothic church of Sant Joan de Arties.

The access to the start of the Via Ferrata (1,250m) from the Arties Parking lot (1,150m) will take about 15’. The climbing route is 330 meters long provided by a 30m bridge and a pendulum.

Duration: 1-2h ascent + 25 'descent

Elevation gain: 100m

Included:

UIAGM / AEGM Mountain Guide Services
Personal advices prior the start
Specific Personal Protective Equipment (harness, lanyard, carabiners and helmet)

Not included:

Personal gear (see gear list)

General Information:

Each group member taking part in the program is required to possess an at date licence issued by the Mountaineering Federation valid in the Pyrenees.
A Via ferrata is an extraordinary pass time but it entails dangers. Each group member takes full individual responsibility of what could happen.
The mountain guide reserves the right to modify the program depending on weather conditions, group factor or any other cause that in his opinion may be decisive.

Appropiate hiking shoes
20l max backpack

Appropiate confortable pants
T-shirt
Polartec
Primaloft (depending on weather conditions)
Gore-Tex jacket (depending on weather conditions)

Appropiate Gloves (bike or leather)

Cap
Sunglasses
Sunscreen 50+
Lip balm 50+

Water/Snacks

Mountaineering Federation Licence at date and valid in the Pyrenees
ID/Passport/Driving Licence
Mobile

For the outdoor activity that you plan to be successful it is very important that it accommodates to your level, both physical and technical. Here we present some guidelines so that you can get an idea of what your level is according to the programs we propose. However, we recommend reaching to us so we can help you personally and adapt the program to your conditions.

Alpinism & Climbing

TECHNICAL level

1 = No or very little experience in mountaineering. Has big expertise in trekking. Able to walk on varied terrain (snow or rock) with some simple easy climbs. Graduation ascents "F".
2 = Reduced experience on big mountains and mountaineering. Has accomplished some climbs with the use of ice axe and crampons on steep terrain. Has travelled across alpine glaciers. Has slight notion of climbing and progression on ridgelines. Graduation ascents "PD".
3 = Frequently on big mountains and mountaineering. Accomplishes periodic ascents with the use of ice axes and crampons on steep terrains. Manages the rope for belaying. Travels across alpine glaciers and snowy or icy slopes. Has some knowledge on rock climbing up to IV or Vº and progression on ridgelines. Graduation ascents "AD".
4 = Solid experience on big mountains and mountaineering. Has already performed alpine ascents and classic rock climbs of multiple pitches up to Vº or 6a. Is able to place gear to protect oneself. Masters rope work, belaying and rapelling. Has knowledge of snow and ice climbing techniques. Is familiar with the use of crampons and ice axes on icy or snowy slopes of more than 60º. Graduation ascents "D".
5 = Extensive background on big mountains and mountaineering. Has performed alpine mixed routes as well as classic multi-pitch rock climbs up to 6a or 6b. Is familiar placing and removing trad gear such as friends, stoppers, ice screws. Masters rope work, building belay and rappel anchors. Knows how to perform a bivouac shelter. Experience in high altitude (4000m or over). Accustomed to use crampons and ice axes on icy or snowy slopes of more than 80º. Graduation ascents "MD".

FITNESS LEVEL

1 = Completes easy hikes in the mountains of 3 or 4 hours long and 600 meters elevation gain carrying a light backpack of about 5 kg.
2 = Able to carry out itineraries from 4 to 6 hours long and 800 meters of elevation gain carrying a backpack of about 7 kg.
3 = Able to accomplish itineraries from 6 to 8 hours and 1000 meters elevation gain carrying a backpack of about 8 kg.
4 = Able to complete routes for 10 hours and up to 1200 meters elevation gain with a backpack of about 8 kg.
5 = Able to carry out long and hard routes of more than 12 hours and 1500 meters elevation gain carrying a heavy backpack of 10 kg or more.

Next Dates :

All year

Description

The origins of the via ferratas date back in the nineteenth century due to the purpose of making some alpine routes more accessible. The first one was installed in 1843 in Austria. They are protected climbing itineraries both vertical and horizontal equipped with iron rungs (stemples), pegs, carved steps, ladders and bridge that allow to undertake difficult routes without the risks associated with unprotected scrambling or the need for climbing equipment such as ropes. They really spread during World War I when several were built for military purposes in the area of The Dolomites.

It was not before 1990 when their popularity really grew because of the recognition of tourism benefits.

In Val d’Aran, three are the different options of Via ferratas located in Unha, Les and Arties. An awesome day in the mountain shared with family or friends is guaranteed on any of them. Thus, you will have the opportunity to initiate your children on easy sections. Safety on every ferrata is provided by a steel cable installed throughout the route and a harness together with a specific lanyard and two carabiners.