- Difficulty level
- C
- Brief description
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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
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mediumDifficulty level C
- Rating
-
- Starting point
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Col des Gentianes
- Route
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Black Tap
- Best season
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JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
- Description
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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.
- Directions
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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.
- Highest point
- 3,008 m
- Endpoint
-
Sommet des Monts-de-Cion
- Exposition
- Height profile
- © outdooractive.com
- Equipment
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All climbers must wear a harness. Because of the risk of falling rocks along the route, a helmet is also essential. Ensure you have sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing, and bring a small rucksack with water and a snack. A suitable pair of gloves will protect your fingers and knuckles from grazes.
- Safety instructions
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Weather conditions: before setting off to tackle a via ferrata, it is important to check the weather forecast. Bad conditions can make climbing dangerous – particularly in stormy weather.
Rockfalls: because of the risk of falling rocks – usually caused by climbers higher up or by animals – all climbers are strongly advised to wear a helmet.
Safety: always leave sufficient distance between yourself and the climber ahead. There should never be more than one person between two anchor points.
- Tips
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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.
- Additional information
- Directions
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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).
- Public transportation
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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.
- Parking
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Parking places are available at Le Châble and also in the centre of the resorts of Nendaz and Verbier.
- Author
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The tour Via Ferrata in Les Gentianes is used by outdooractive.com provided.
General info
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Unterwallis
21
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Verbier
4