Whenever we consider an adventure trip, we decide which will be the most suitable destination to practice the activities that interest us most. Across the world's geography, we can find various places to enjoy our favourite sport to the fullest.
If via ferratas are your thing and you're wondering where you could go to enjoy them, the best thing you can do is head to the Dolomites, located in northeastern Italy, slightly south of the Alps. A place similar to our Picos de Europa but with landscapes that leave no one indifferent.
It's a mountain range that practically lives off active tourism, as people from all over the world choose to go there throughout the year, able to practice sports from skiing to mountaineering. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009, it has numerous forests and meadows home to the most impressive rock formations.
The via ferrata routes you'll find aren't difficult for someone accustomed to the mountains with a basic climbing background, as they allow for easy progression. Now that spring has arrived, it's the ideal season to visit its routes, and if you can't make the trip, it's best to wait until autumn (summer is far too hot).
Once you're in the Dolomites, you'll need to be prepared for the various obstacles you may encounter, like hanging ladders, narrow ledges halfway up vertical walls, steep terrain... There's no doubt that climbing here will be quite an adventure.
The type of rock in the region is unique, giving it even more special charm. Composed of magnesium and calcium carbonates that over time and erosion have formed striking ridges and a maze worth seeing with its limestone towers, vertical walls, pinnacles... If you suffer from vertigo, be careful!
As a first recommendation, we advise you to go to the Dolomites without hesitation, as it's truly worth it. Browsing online, you'll find images that speak for themselves, along with tourist information so you can explore the area safely. And speaking of safety, we must ask you to bring equipment to secure your passage along the via ferrata:
- Helmet. Besides saving you from a blow, it will prevent falling stones from hitting your head.
- Harness. It's crucial that it's a climbing harness, as these offer the best support.
- Anchor sling. This will only serve for resting and admiring the view, but don't rely on it too much, as a shock absorber is far safer.
- Shock absorber. Your best aid in case of a fall.
- Carabiners. You can't leave home without them, especially if they're automatic and always suitable for via ferrata (marked with a K).
- Aider. These small ladders can get you out of more than one tight spot.
- Other equipment. Ropes, carabiners, ascenders, figure eights and, if you wish, abseiling gear.
Of all mountain sports, via ferratas are within reach of almost everyone, so don't think twice and surprise that special someone with a few days in the Dolomites. You won't forget it!
