Sarah Birch / Article and images
After the sweltering summer months, the milder
Mediterranean temperatures of autumn and winter
are the best time of year for outdoor activities. So,
on a bright November morning, the OTWO team set
off on an unforgettable experience with In2Adven-
tures, to climb the magnificent via ferrata below the
Ronda Bridge.
Via ferrata’s are groomed paths through moun-
tainous areas that allow ease of access through an
otherwise difficult terrain. Originally developed du-
ring World War I to facilitate ferocious battles fou-
ght in the Dolomites between Italian and Austrians/
Germans troops, permanent lines and metal ladders
were installed so that soldiers could ascend steep
rock faces quickly and easily.
Later, these paths became popular with moun-
taineering enthusiasts and were extending to other
parts of Europe. Nowadays, via ferrata’s (meaning
iron path’s in Italian) are fitted with elements such
as steel cables, metal steps, pins, handrails and zi-
plines to guarantee an easy, fun and safe path for
climbers of all abilities.
The day began at 9am where we met with our
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guide instructor Jimmy, just across the border. As an
avid outdoorsman, Jimmy has over 28 years of clim-
bing experience. Beginning his climbing career in the
military in 1991, he then went on to become a fully
licensed climbing instructor and mountain leader. He
has climbed all over the world, including Canada,
Kenya, Morocco, the Alps and the Himalayas.
Knowing that the team was in good hands, we
started the 2 hour drive up to Ronda, taking us throu-
gh meandering mountainside roads with spectacular
views across the rugged hillside towards Gibraltar.
After the dry summer heat, the scorched countryside
was a lush green, peppered with auburn and amber
leaves.
Arriving just after 11am, Jimmy ran through the
equipment, making sure everyone was familiar
with their gear and correctly strapped in. After
a short walk up towards the Mirador del Viento,
where tourists ‘oohed and ahhed’ at the stunning
views across El Tajo gorge, the group took a narrow
downhill path through a stone archway towards the
Guadalevín River, and the beginning of the via.
The first climb is considered easy, and like most
OTWO 06 / JANUARY 2020
OTWO 06 / JANUARY 2020
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