Grenoble Via Ferrata - The Bastille Holds

The “Les prizes de la Bastille” route has 2 main parts over a length of approximately 950 m (400 m on the cliff and 550 m on the path).

The start of the first section is quite steep with an impressive rope bridge. The rest is easier.
The second section begins with an athletic overhanging step. The rest remains very sustained and requires good physical condition. Two escape routes are possible in case of extreme fatigue.
The exit is on the ramparts of the Bastille.
Park in the Esplanade car park. The starting point is at 22 Route de Lyon, 100 m from Porte de France, behind the Esplanade.
Lower part: VICAT Cliffs / Trail
- difference in altitude: 120 m
- length: 250 m
- journey time: 0h45
- difficulty: AD + (fairly difficult +) to D (difficult)
- intermediate trail: 400 m - 0h15
Upper part: Cliffs of the Bastille
- difference in altitude: 110 m
- length: 300 m
- journey time: 0h45
- difficulty: D (difficult) to TD (very difficult)
- 2 easier escape options.
Terminal section: A short railway line opens under the parapet of an old casemate, a few meters from the top of the Bastille.
- difference in altitude: 10 m
- length: 30 m
- journey time: 5 min
- difficulty: F (easy)
SAFETY TIPS
PREPARATION
Even when practiced in an urban setting like the "Prises de la Bastille" in Grenoble, via ferrata remains a mountain activity and it is essential to prepare your outing well. Check the weather forecast and do not undertake it if the weather is threatening or stormy.
Some via ferrata can be very challenging. Consult the route guides to choose a route suited to your level: general difficulty, travel time, elevation gain (do not exceed 200m for beginners), very steep sections that may put some participants off...
If possible, avoid busy periods for popular via ferrata. Large numbers of people on the same route increase stress and make the journey less enjoyable.
If you are bringing children, check in advance because some via ferrata are prohibited for children under 12 (distance between the bars is too great).
GEAR
All equipment must comply with the current standard for the practice of via ferrata.
- A mountain helmet.
- A climbing harness.
- A via ferrata lanyard equipped with two carabiners and an energy absorber.
- A short quickdraw to hang on the bars in case of extreme fatigue.
- A pair of lightweight hiking shoes.
- A pair of gloves (very useful if the cable is damaged).
- To be adapted according to the length of the route: warm and waterproof clothing, drink, energy food... Be careful, however, not to overload yourself unnecessarily.
PROGRESSION
With children or beginners, it is strongly recommended to climb roped. The rope is a guarantee of safety in the vertical sections, while the lanyard remains essential for the crossings. The leader must know the techniques for roping up and evacuating in case of a problem. Provide a rope long enough to allow for a quick evacuation. Be careful, route times with children or beginners can easily be doubled.
Respect the number of people indicated before footbridges and other “rope bridges”.
For independent practice (not roped):
- Always be connected to the cable by your lanyard
- Do not have several people on a section of cable between two anchors
- Check that your lanyard + absorber system is still effective
Carefully read the instructions that came with your equipment. They will explain how to use it safely and how to maintain it to keep it efficient.
SUPERVISION
If you're new to the sport, we recommend taking your first steps with a professional. You can then safely practice on your own.

Tram E "Esplanade"