Via Ferrata – St Vincent de Mercuze

DESCRIPTIONS & INFORMATION

The Via Ferrata de Saint Vincent de Mercuze, also known as the "Rocher de l'Envers" via ferrata, is the latest to open in Isère in the Chartreuse massif since August 2014. It's a fairly easy, not very athletic route, perfect for a family introduction to via ferrata. Its green undergrowth and bucolic atmosphere are particularly noteworthy, as is its accessibility for younger climbers!

After an approach walk winding around the river, you'll come to the beautiful 45m-high Alloix waterfall, which you'll walk around behind to reach the start of the via ferrata.

The first section is not very aerial, with moderately steep steps up to either side of the stream. You then reach the famous footbridge overlooking the waterfall at the entrance to the Alloix canyon, where you might be lucky enough to see the canyoneers abseiling down!

On the second section, we gradually emerge from the forest and the view opens up to reveal the Chartreuse cliffs above us and the Belledonne massif opposite with its snow-capped peaks.

The atmosphere of the waterfalls and the ease with which the obstacles can be climbed make this via ferrata a superb introduction to climbing.

Minimum age: 8/10 years
Approach walk: 10 minutes
Return walk: 10 minutes
Duration: 2h
Period: May to the end of September