Top 7 via ferrata in Spain
Via ferratas are a new way to enjoy the outdoors and exercise at the same time. An interesting alternative for tourism and to know places that you would not imagine that there are in Spain. For this, it is always good to have as much information as possible for safer enjoyment.
You may be wondering what a via ferrata is. Well, it is a sports itinerary or traced route, which can be vertical or horizontal, through rocky walls or steep routes with a difficult journey, although the degree of difficulty may vary. However, there are for experts and for those who are just starting out in this practice that could be located between hiking and climbing. But don’t worry because you will always have safety equipment such as steps, guide rails and bridges; in addition, of course, to a special kit made up of harnesses with energy dissipator, carabiners typical of this activity, helmet and gloves. Actually, the only thing you need to take care of is a raincoat and a thermal shirt (here you will find some purchase options), since being outdoors changes in the weather must be anticipated.
On the other hand, it is also advisable to seek the advice of specialized sports agencies or groups that can tell you, according to your experience and abilities, which would be the best destination in each case. Keep in mind that, despite all the security that these routes offer, it is essential to know the physical strength of each of the visitors. Also, very important, that the road is active and safe for users.
Via ferrata in Catalonia
Due to its diverse topography, Spain offers an extensive series of this type of route. To begin with, we can refer to the via ferratas of Catalonia, where there are many of different levels of demand, both due to the difficulty of their route and their length. Most are active and some are temporarily closed. Among them we can mention the Baumes Corcades or Centelles, the Cinglera del Resistent (Turó del Marqués), Penitents and Canal De los Olmos. Others with a shorter route are Puig de la Forca, Castellot (refitted in 2020), Roques de l’Empalomar and Gorges de Salenys.
Via ferrata in Asturias
Now we go with the via ferratas of Asturias, specifically Puente Vidosa, near San Ignacio. This route has a unique setting with the bottom of the Desfiladero de los Beyos, within the Ponga Natural Park. It offers various routes or routes of different difficulty, which include crossing Tibetan bridges at a great height and with extensions that can exceed eighty meters.
To complete one of these via ferratas you have to have between one hour and thirty minutes to three hours and thirty minutes. The conditions to access your route according to its difficulty vary according to age, weight and general physical condition.
Via ferrata of Gran Canaria
The via ferratas of Gran Canaria are very special. They have actually been created more for fun than out of necessity; however, they are on par with the best when it comes to security and technology. Of course, there are of all levels of demand, always advancing through mountains of pure rock. In the most difficult parts you will have a bar or metal piece at hand to help you continue. In this region we can mention the Barranco de Berriel, where the Primera Luna is located, one of the most demanding via ferratas due to the height it achieves between the basalt formations.
Via ferrata in Cuenca
Continuing on our tour of Spain, we have to refer to the via ferratas of Cuenca, one of the points in the downtown area. The via ferrata tour has become one of the outdoor activities with the largest number of participants, being very fashionable in this region. The reason: its variety of routes for all levels of demand, among which we have the via ferrata Ventano del Diablo, Las Buitreras, El Estrecho and Piedra del Castillo.
Via ferrata in Madrid
We will now talk about the via ferratas of Madrid and its surroundings, where we get from the shortest and simplest ones designed for children and beginners, through the sports via ferratas that cross high mountains and those of adventure for experts, located in areas of difficult access. They all have the modality of being equipped with articles or elements that facilitate the path. However, in any modality it is advisable to always have the support of an expert guide to make this practice safer.
In the outskirts of Madrid we can mention the Pasarela del Espeja (Soria), the El Ranero (Burgos) and the Hoces de Priego (Cuenca).
Via ferrata in Leon
The via ferratas of León offer fun for all tastes, that of Valdeón is the first in all of Spain, located in the Picos de Europa National Park, and exceeds 1,200 meters of route. Others are Camino del Inferno, Sobrón, Rope La Graja 2 and Huerta del Rey. Always remember to pay attention to the weather, as they are high mountain areas where the evolution of a storm can be very fast.
Via ferrata in Valencia
Lastly, we refer to the via ferratas of Valencia, where there are initiation routes, such as Enguera and Tous; moderate, such as the Sierra del Cid; for experts, such as Redovan Sierra de Callosa and Norte del Cid.
It can be said that the practice of this outdoor activity, in addition to allowing us physical conditioning, offers us the opportunity to connect with nature directly and enjoy natural beauty in a way that was previously unthinkable. In short, live a unique and unforgettable experience.
On the other hand, it is an alternative for the hotel industry and its related parties to promote packages that include this practice and, despite the location of these hotels and their characteristics, they find it necessary to keep their services and technology up to date, even with the use of a professional window cleaning robot, so that its users have a better vision of the natural beauties that surround them and that they will visit.
