A Via Ferrata is a vertical path that is equipped with
help and safety elements. The most important ele-
ment is the “lifeline”, a steel cable that is present
at all times on the path, you must always be hooked
on to it, at least as a method of support. The “steps”
are sheaves that are embedded in the wall and ser-
ve to help the upward advance. Other elements
include the Tibetan Bridges (made up of 4 cables),
the Monkey Bridges (made up of 3 cables) and Zip
Lines (to cross valleys or negotiate higher points).
The Via Ferratas are rated according to how tough
they are and their difficulty at each different level. Le-
vel 0 (initiation, without difficulty); Level 1 (easy, but
with some complicated sections); Level 2 (difficult,
with several stretches of difficulty); Level 3 (Very diffi-
cult, with several overhanging walls); Level 4 (Maxi-
mum difficulty, only advisable for people with a lot
of experience); Level 5 (Extreme, only very experts).
Our company only works up to level 3, only in very ex-
ceptional cases have we conducted level 4. We have
never done any with level 5 ferrata participants.
To complete a Via Ferrata it is essential to use
individual and group technical equipment. The indi-
vidual equipment consists of a harness, zipper (fall
arrester with energy absorber), helmet and short
resting sling - it is advisable to wear short gloves.
In addition, the instructors must carry the necessary
equipment for possible rescue and assistance.
For an amazing November 2019 adventure, we
suggest two extraordinarily beautiful routes, which
in addition progress in difficulty. Via Ferrata de Be-
nalauría (Level 1) and Via Ferrata de Benadalid (Le-
vel 2), both located in the Serranía de Ronda and
with spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea
and the Straits and Rock of Gibraltar.
VIA FERRATA DE BENALAURÍA.
This Via Ferrata is rated as Level 1 (easy, with
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some complicated sections) and is ideal as an intro-
duction to this type of sport.
After following a beautiful path for about 30 mi-
nutes, we approach the Ferrata from the east side,
enjoying beautiful landscapes. It starts with a simple
section to gain some height, which includes seve-
ral balconies to give a sense of security. We pass
several horizontal sections to reach the “Canal del
Buitre” Canyon. Then we complete two sections that
are about 25 meters long, reaching the first Monkey
Bridge that crosses the canyon. After this, there is a
stretch of about 20 meters to finish the Via Ferrata
with a second Monkey Bridge.
From the top you can see the entire Canyon and
appreciate the height reached, incredible!
We have 15 minutes left on a path down the north
side that returns us to the starting point.
VÍA FERRATA DE BENADALID
The Via Ferrata de Benadalid is considered
Level 2 (difficult, with several stretches of diffi-
culty), aerial and very exciting. With almost 70
meters of very vertical tracks.We return to the
previous path and deviate between the rocks to
reach the beginning of the Via, this takes about
15 to 20 minutes.
The route seen from below is impressive. It
begins with a continuous ascent of almost 40
meters until we reach the first overhang to test
our strength. We continue the ascent overcoming
several small climbs and at almost 55 meters, an
important overhang. After that a short break to
enjoy the great views of the Serranía de Ronda,
more specifically of the Genal Valley. Just a few
meters more of the path and we reach the end,
having reached a height of 75 metres. We did it!
We then return to join the route back from the
previous path.
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