Discovering the fantastic Via Ferrata des Evettes in Bonneval-sur-Arc, France

In the alpine village of Bonneval-sur-Arc in the Haute-Maurienne Vanoise region, the Via Ferrata des Evettes offers a stunning and family-friendly introduction to vertical adventure in the heart of the French Alps. With its dramatic backdrop of glaciers, wild alpine meadows, and the peaks of the Vanoise National Park, it blends adrenaline with awe-inspiring scenery. It’s one of the most accessible and scenic via ferrata routes in the region, perfect for beginners, families, and those looking for a half-day mountain adventure.

Overview of Via Ferrata des Evettes

Location: Bonneval-sur-Arc, Savoie, France
Altitude: Starts around 2,500 meters (accessible via cable car)
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Best Season: June to September (weather permitting)
Equipment Needed: Helmet, harness, via ferrata lanyard with energy absorber, gloves, hiking or approach shoes

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Getting There

Bonneval-sur-Arc is a picturesque village recognized as one of the “Plus Beaux Villages de France” (Most Beautiful Villages of France). It is near the Italian border and a 2.5-hour drive from Chambéry and around 3 hours from Grenoble. The Via Ferrata des Evettes is accessed via the Evettes cable car, which operates during the summer season. The top station of the lift places you directly at the starting point, offering easy access to high-altitude adventure without a strenuous approach.

Route Description

The Via Ferrata des Evettes is designed to be fun, varied, and scenic, making it ideal for those who may be new to via ferrata but still want a real mountain experience. The route is well-secured, and the exposure is moderate, making it less intimidating while still offering plenty of thrills.

1. The Introduction – Easy and Enjoyable

The route begins with a gentle ascent along a rocky face, using well-placed metal rungs and natural footholds. This portion is perfect for warming up and getting used to the climbing gear. The safety cable is continuous and easy to clip into, providing comfort for beginners and younger climbers.

2. The Traverse – Airy but Accessible

After the initial climb, the route turns into a horizontal traverse along a cliff face, offering sweeping views of the Evettes Glacier and the alpine basin below. While the exposure increases here, the path remains secure and manageable, with wide ledges and solid holds.

3. The Monkey Bridge – A Touch of Adrenaline

One of the highlights of the Via Ferrata des Evettes is a short but exciting monkey bridge (a cable bridge with a foot cable and two hand cables). Suspended over a narrow gully, this feature provides a mini adrenaline rush and a great photo opportunity. It’s safe and stable but gives a taste of more advanced via ferrata elements.

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4. The Final Climb – Short and Satisfying

The last section involves a brief vertical ascent, where climbers make their way up using a mix of metal rungs and natural rock. It’s a bit more physically engaging but remains accessible to most ability levels. The route ends on a grassy ledge with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the Albaron and the Charbonnel.

The Descent

Once the climb is complete, a clearly marked hiking trail leads back to the top of the cable car station. This descent takes around 20–30 minutes and offers a chance to reflect on the climb while enjoying the alpine environment. Wildflowers, marmots, and distant waterfalls enhance the descent trail, making it just as enjoyable as the via ferrata itself.

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Who Is This Route For?

The Via Ferrata des Evettes is ideal for a wide range of climbers, including:

Beginners looking for their first via ferrata experience in a spectacular setting
Families with children (10+), provided the kids are supervised and not afraid of heights
Photographers and nature lovers who want a gentle climb with big views
Anyone acclimatizing for more demanding climbs or multi-day treks in the Vanoise area

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Tips for a Great Experience

Start early in the day to avoid afternoon storms, which are common in high alpine areas.
Check cable car hours before heading up, especially late in the season.
Bring layers, as weather can shift quickly at high altitudes.
Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses – the alpine sun is strong, especially near snowfields.
Consider a guide if it’s your first time on a via ferrata or if you’re with children.
Pack light but smart – a small daypack with water, snacks, a windbreaker, and your gear is all you need.

Why Choose Via Ferrata des Evettes?

Accessibility: With cable car access to the starting point, it offers an alpine experience without a long approach.
Scenic Value: Few routes offer such close-up views of glaciers and alpine peaks in such an accessible format.
Beginner-Friendly: Well-equipped and relatively easy, it’s great for learning via ferrata techniques.
Perfect for Families: Safe and not overly long, with fun features like the monkey bridge.
Close to Bonneval-sur-Arc: Combine your climb with a visit to one of France’s most charming mountain villages.

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Conclusion

The Via Ferrata des Evettes is a gem in the French Alps, offering a memorable mountain experience without requiring expert skills or intense physical conditioning. Whether you’re a beginner climber, a family with adventurous kids, or a seasoned hiker looking for a light challenge with spectacular views, this via ferrata delivers. With its stunning glacial panoramas, exciting yet accessible route, and easy access via cable car, the Via Ferrata des Evettes deserves a place on your Alpine adventure list. Get ready to clip in, climb high, and soak in the beauty of one of France’s most scenic high-altitude playgrounds.