Climbing Via ferrata & via cordata
in Verbier - Val de Bagnes

There are plenty of climbing sites in the Val de Bagnes and around Verbier. Take a look at the map at the top of the page to choose a spot that suits your climbing level. The Sports Centre also offers indoor routes that are accessible whatever the weather.
You can also buy the “Entremont Escalades” guidebook at our tourist offices. 

In Verbier, you’ll find climbing routes ranging from easy to challenging, from 3 to 8b.
Climbing is not something you improvise. Contact a mountain guide or the Verbier climbing club to learn belaying techniques and improve your skills!

Most of the routes inside the Sports Centre are equipped with self-belay devices.

For the Via Ferrata, you will need a harness, a Via Ferrata lanyard, a climbing helmet and good hiking shoes. If you’ve never done this before or have little experience, we recommend taking an introductory session with a guide.

For safety reasons in case of improper use of the equipment, it is strongly discouraged to attempt a via ferrata without prior experience. You can easily book an introductory session with one of the local mountain guides or sign up for the climbing taster session offered by the La Tzoumaz Tourist Office.

Several sports shops in Verbier and Le Châble rent out gear. Make sure you get equipped before heading out, as there is no rental service at the start of the routes.

You can buy the “Entremont Escalades” guidebook at our tourist offices in Verbier, Le Châble and Fionnay.

What is the difficulty level of the via ferrata routes at Col des Gentianes and Mauvoisin?
At Col des Gentianes, there are two routes: “Edelweiss” rated K3 (blue) and “Androsace” rated K5 (red).
In Mauvoisin, the full route is rated K4+, with a first, fairly easy section called “Saxifrage”, followed by a second section, “Tichodrome”, which is more physical and technical.
The (K) difficulty scale is based on the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) scale. You’ll find more details here.

Yes, you should be accompanied by a mountain guide for a via cordata, unless you are already trained and experienced in mountaineering (rope work, climbing, etc.). The route is not equipped with cables or fixed ropes; it is not a via ferrata.

A via ferrata is a route set up on a rock face, equipped with cables, rungs, ladders and anchor points. You move at height, attached to a lifeline with a harness and via ferrata lanyards.
A via cordata is a rocky route closer to mountaineering. It usually has no fixed cables or rungs: you progress roped up, and it requires knowledge of climbing and belaying techniques.

Madzeira Beach is a great spot for families looking for easy routes.

The via ferrata is not primarily designed for families, but is aimed more at sporty people. It all depends on the route, physical condition, as well as the age and height of the children. If you have never done a via ferrata before, it is strongly recommended to sign up for an introductory session with a guide.