For an alternative to climbing that is now just as popular and enjoyable, try Via Ferrata. Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced, you’ll be making your way along the rocks and cliffs with minimal gear and an instructor to supervise the whole outing. Awaken the adventurer in you and come and explore the region in a very different way, from these routes clinging to the rock, with a sheer drop down below!
via ferrata à morzine
From Morzine, two via ferratas can be reached in less than 20 minutes by car: the Rocher de la Chaux Via Ferrata in Saint-Jean-d’Aulps and the Via Ferrata des Saix in Avoriaz. These two complementary routes offer a unique way to discover the stunning landscapes of the Portes du Soleil.
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Via Ferrata activity with the Morzine Avoriaz Guides office -
Climbing and Via Ferrata activity with Évolution 2 -
Introduction to climbing and outings with the Bureau des Guides
Rocher de la Chaux Via Ferrata – Saint-Jean-d’Aulps
📍 Distance from Morzine: approximately 10 km (20 minutes by car)
Located in the Vallée d’Aulps, the Rocher de la Chaux Via Ferrata is one of the best-known via ferratas in Haute-Savoie.
It features two routes to suit different experience levels.
La Tête de l’Éléphant
- Difficulty: D (Difficult)
- Duration: approximately 1 to 1.5 hours
- Suitable for people with a good level of fitness.
- An excellent choice for a first via ferrata experience.
This route combines suspension bridges, rocky traverses and exposed sections while remaining accessible to confident beginners.
L’Œil de l’Éléphant
- Difficulty: D to TD (Difficult to Very Difficult)
- Duration: approximately 2 hours
- Recommended for experienced and physically fit climbers.
More exposed and physically demanding, this route includes steep vertical sections and impressive traverses. Two escape routes allow participants to switch onto the easier route if required.
Via Ferrata des Saix – Avoriaz
📍 Distance from Morzine: approximately 20 minutes by car
Overlooking the resort of Avoriaz, the Via Ferrata des Saix offers a spectacular adventure with breathtaking views over the Portes du Soleil mountains.
The route includes:
- Suspension bridges
- Equipped vertical climbing sections
- Exposed traverses
- A varied itinerary, perfect for discovering the sport
- Difficulty: AD to D (Fairly Difficult to Difficult)
- Duration: approximately 2 to 3 hours
- Altitude: over 1,800 metres
- Suitable for participants from 1.40 m tall, when accompanied by an adult (subject to the activity provider’s conditions).
- This via ferrata is particularly popular for its stunning alpine setting and panoramic views over Avoriaz, Morzine and the surrounding mountain peaks.
Where can I do a via ferrata near Morzine?
The two closest via ferratas are the Rocher de la Chaux Via Ferrata in Saint-Jean-d’Aulps and the Via Ferrata des Saix in Avoriaz, both located around 15 to 20 minutes by car from Morzine.
Which is the best via ferrata for beginners near Morzine?
For beginners, the Via Ferrata des Saix in Avoriaz is generally the most suitable option. It offers an excellent introduction to the activity while still providing plenty of excitement and spectacular alpine views.
Do I need a guide to do a via ferrata?
If you’re new to via ferrata, joining a guided trip is highly recommended. The Morzine-Avoriaz Mountain Guides and Évolution 2 offer supervised outings, including all the necessary safety equipment.
Where can I hire via ferrata equipment in Morzine?
Via ferrata equipment can be hired from Intersport, located on Rue du Bourg in Morzine.
