OTWO Magazine December 2019 | Page 90

Ronda Via Ferrata Text and photos by Diexter Thomas Through some bendy roads accompanied with beau- tiful views, we made our way in an 8 seater to Ron- da, a journey which took us around an hour and a half from Gibraltar. This was the first time I had visited Ronda, a gorgeous village at an elevation of 750 metres abo- ve sea level which features stunning views of the surrounding area and a very impressive and iconic stone bridge which immediately left me gobsmac- ked. Ronda is rich in history, in fact being the place where Spanish Bullfighting originated from. We went with In2Adventures to experience Ron- da’s two ‘Via Ferrata’ climbing routes. Via Ferrata, which in Italian means ‘Iron Path’, provides climbers a safe way of climbing certain areas and are friend- ly for people from the ages of 9 onwards. Climbers use the carabiners (hooks) on the Via Ferrata Set to secure themselves to a steel cable which is periodi- cally attached to the rock face every 1 to 10 metres. This procedure is to reduce the height in which they could fall and prevents a nasty accident happening, and a helmet to protect against any falling stones. This makes for a safer and a very beginner friendly alternative to traditional rock climbing. The origin of Via Ferrata routes dates back to the 19th century but they are more commonly re- cognised to have aided the movement of troops during the First World War in the Dolomite moun- tain region of Italy. Many more have been develo- ped in recent years due to its surge of popularity and its clear tourism benefits due to its safety and enjoyability, with there being over 1000 in the European Alps, most of which being in Italy and Austria. Closer to home there are more than 50 Via Ferratas in Spain in areas like the Pyre- nees, the Mediterranean Coast from Girona to 88 Murica, the region between Malaga and Cordoba and of course, Ronda. Ronda has two routes for Via Ferrata climbing, one being subsequently harder than the other, but both providing a fun experience for those new to the activity. I had never experienced anything like the Via Ferrata before, and once we were taught how to manoeuvre the activity by In2Adventures’ Climbing Expert, Jimmy, there was no stopping our momen- tum to reaching the top of the first and easier Via Fe- rrata route. There is a slight feeling of freedom when you’re climbing, its surreal not having your feet on solid ground. The Via Ferrata Set’s third carabiner can be used to attach yourself to the metal steps in both routes for when you want to relax and take in the view, or to secure yourself whilst feeling uneasy. In2Adventures is a company dedicated to provi- ding outdoor experiences for individuals and com- panies like paddle boarding, team-building and rock activities. They feel that with the stresses in today’s society we never seem to have a moment to spend quality time with our families and friends, and they encourage people to take on board the great out- doors to maintain a balance in our everyday lives. Upon finishing the second Via Ferrata route which was shorter but for me was a little bit difficult, we decided to make our way into the village for a hot drink and for something to eat. Although we weren’t in Ronda for long, the place was full with people walking around, especially the tourists taking in the beautiful views. I would very much recommend doing a via Ferrata and going with In2Adventures to Ronda for a great and enjoyable day out. For more information about the activities and ser- vices In2Adventures provide, contact us on info@ otwomag.com or call 22500799 OTWO 05 / DECEMBER 2019 OTWO 05 / DECEMBER 2019 89