In the Vercors, summer mornings offer a unique spectacle: cliffs gilded by the sun, pure air, scents of forest and streams of water winding through the valleys.

Between winding gorges, sharp ridges and wild canyons, the region offers an exceptional setting for thrill seekers.

Via ferrata, via corda, or canyoning: three activities that combine safety, adrenaline, and discovery. Imagine yourself hanging from a wall, feet in the water, or roped up a dizzying ridge.

Experience the intensity of the Vercors amidst its magnificent landscapes, accompanied by passionate guides. Choose your route and transform your next outing into a true sporting adventure.

The difference between via corda and via ferrata?

Via corda and via ferrata are two vertical practices that are similar in appearance, but very different in their design. Via ferrata has fixed and continuous equipment (cables, bars, walkways) and is practiced connected to a lanyard with a shock absorber, always under the guidance of a professional. Via corda, more technical and physical, retains a more authentic character: few facilities, roped progression and direct belaying by a guide. It always requires qualified supervision.

The equipment is not interchangeable: via ferrata lanyards, designed for a taut cable and to cushion large falls, are not used in via corda. For children, increased vigilance is required: in via ferrata, the equipment's shock absorbers are not designed to work below approximately 40 kg, so suitable equipment will be required. In via corda, direct roping allows you to adapt the belaying and equipment to each person's size and weight.

Via ferrata: a step between heaven and earth

Born in the Dolomites, the via ferrata combines hiking and climbing thanks to permanent equipment fixed to the rock (cables, rungs, footbridges). In the Vercors, several well-maintained and secure routes offer something for all levels.

Among the must-sees:

👉 The Chironne via ferrata, near the Col du Rousset in the Vercors, is an aerial and demanding route, reserved for thrill-seekers. Between dizzying passages, technical crossings and spectacular views of the Diois, it promises a challenge worthy of mountain enthusiasts.

👉 The Claps via ferrata, near Die, is the ideal route for a first family experience. Easy to access and dotted with escape routes, it alternates between climbs and crossings on the famous rocky chaos, offering a gradual discovery of the sensations of heights from the age of 10.

👉 The Bastille route, near Grenoble: popular with experienced visitors for its aerial passages and rope bridges.

Each site is marked and regularly maintained. Wearing a helmet, a harness, and a lanyard with a shock absorber is mandatory, except for children under 40 kg, for whom this equipment is prohibited. Children from the age of 8 can try it. Local guides offer supervised outings, combining safety and discovery of the Vercors' natural heritage.

Via corda: the alternative between hiking and climbing

Less common than via ferrata or canyoning, via corda involves progressing, roped, along ledges or rocky edges, on a horizontal or diagonal route. Unlike via ferrata, it generally has little or no fixed equipment such as bars or footbridges: you mainly move on the natural rock, using its holds. It thus provides sensations close to climbing, often in wild and preserved environments.

Accessible from beginners, via corda adapts according to the level: fun and similar to a vertical hike for beginners, or more technical for seasoned practitioners. This activity, which requires comfort on rock and with rope handling, absolutely requires the supervision of a professional, climbing guide or specialized instructor.

In the Vercors, two routes stand out:

👉 The via corda of the Virgin of Vercors, located between Saint-Julien-en-Vercors and Saint-Martin-en-Vercors, offers an aerial ascent of more than 200 meters. It alternates vertical passages and metal rungs to facilitate progression. Intended for climbing enthusiasts looking for an adventure at altitude, it is accessible from 12 years old and requires good physical condition due to the length of the route. Supervision by a professional guide allows you to discover this activity even without prior experience at height. The route offers exceptional panoramas of the South Vercors and the Ardèche, for a memorable adventure.

👉 The via corda of Choranche is located in the Choranche cirque. Perfectly suited to beginners and families, it begins with three short climbs and is completed roped together, with participants connected to each other. Along the way, it reveals the Presles cliffs and offers a spectacular view of the Gorges de la Bourne, concluding with a 40-meter abseil.

Our providers are qualified professionals, guaranteeing safe roped progression and learning rope handling skills. Via corda is therefore an excellent compromise for those who wish to discover the sensations of climbing and alpine hiking.

Canyoning: adventure along the water

Going down a torrent, crossing waterfalls, sliding down natural slides... canyoning is an immersive and refreshing activity, ideal for discovering the Vercors in a different way.

Several emblematic sites mark the territory:

👉 The Écouges Canyon : The lower part is suitable for families, while the upper section, much more committed, is reserved for experienced practitioners.

👉 The Furon Gorges : family version with 10 m abseils and swimming passages.

Local guides know the terrain like the back of their hand and ensure a safe outing. They provide the appropriate equipment (wetsuit, helmet, and climbing gear) and are responsible for checking conditions, such as water levels, temperatures, and any temporary restrictions related to species protection.

Important: Some canyons may be temporarily or permanently closed by prefectural decree following incidents. It is essential to always check with your professional guide or the Tourist Office about access conditions and any restrictions before any outing. Mountain conditions change regularly.

Safety and supervision: choosing the right guide

Whether you choose via ferrata, canyoning, or via corda, safety must remain your priority. Local guides and instructors are fully familiar with the open sites, current regulations, and the day's conditions. They will teach you how to use the equipment, manage your effort, and take care of the environment.

Using a qualified professional also means benefiting from insurance throughout the trip, guaranteeing your safety and that of your group in the event of an incident.

They are also a valuable source of information: certain practice sectors may be closed or subject to private agreements, particularly due to usage conflicts with landowners. Before each outing, even if you are an experienced practitioner, always check that there are no prohibition orders in force and the weather conditions (past and future)By choosing an official service provider, you avoid unpleasant surprises while contributing to the preservation and maintenance of authorized sites in the Vercors.

Respect nature and the territory

The Vercors is a sensitive mountain range, rich in exceptional biodiversity. On the High Plateaux, the varied landscapes alternate between mountain forests, alpine pastures, and cliffs, home to ibex, marmots, and birds of prey.

During your sports outings:

👉 Stay on the marked trails in order to preserve the fragile flora.

👉 Reduce the noise in the gorges so as not to disturb birds and bats.

👉 Respect temporary closures : Some canyons and cliffs are closed during the nesting season. These restrictions protect sensitive species and their reproduction. Your professional guide will inform you of current closures.

👉 Limit your impact : take out all your waste, use biodegradable sunscreen, or even don't use any at all, and choose environmentally friendly equipment (magnesium powder in moderation).

By adopting these simple actions, you contribute to the preservation of the natural heritage of the Vercors, while fully enjoying your activity. Each participant has an impact on the fauna and flora: together, let's preserve these exceptional spaces for future generations.

To conclude

Via ferrata, canyoning, and via corda are now among the best ways to experience thrills in the Vercors, while respecting nature and local regulations. They offer a safe and supervised alternative to climbing, access to which remains limited in certain areas of the massif.

To prepare for your outing:

  • Learn Contact the Tourist Office to find out which sites are open and the current conditions.
  • Choose a qualified professional to accompany you safely.
  • Book in advance, especially during the summer, to guarantee your place and support the local economy.

Ready to take the plunge? The Vercors awaits you: its cliffs, gorges, and ridges promise unforgettable memories. Now it's your turn!

Adeline's recommendation

La Via Corda of the Virgin of Vercors, it's just breathtaking! A very aerial via ferrata, with a breathtaking view. And after the effort, a short stop in Saint-Martin for enjoy a well-deserved coffee, a story of slowly coming down from the heights

Do the via corda / via ferrata

Canyoning

You may also be interested in