Two fantastic Via Ferrata with epic views! Simply a must for enthusiasts visiting this region.
First off; you can start both tours at your own discretion (this wasn’t quite clear from the info we found on the net preparing for our journey).
Word of advise: don’t attempt the Vestveggen unguided if you haven’t got some serious Via Ferrata experience. There are several seriously challenging passages that I would grade at least a ‘D’.
Forget doing this route with children younger than 13/14 years old (they simply lack the required length to reach certain handholds).
When in doubt, book a guide. They will provide you with a memorable and thrilling experience!
Payment: you can pay the fee (afterwards) using the Norwegian payment app VIPPS or at the Tindersenter in Åndalsnes. (tindersenderet.no) At 100 NOK for the Introveggen and 200 NOK for the Vestveggen it’s very reasonably priced indeed.
Parking: you can’t park directly at the entry into the route. There is a parking a bit further away.
Exiting the route: The Introveggen ends 2/3rds on the way to Rampestreken, while the Vestveggen leads you directly to the Rampestreken cable car station.
Descending to Åndalsnes from Rampestreken there is an option to take a path through the woods back to entry point of the Via Ferrata. This is a challenging path in itself with some interesting steep parts (secured by chains).
Summary: a ‘must’ for people who like doing Via Ferrata. Highly recommend, not only for the challenging aspects but also for the stunning views.
This part of Norway is just so amazing to visit. If you have the...
Read moreThe Romsdalsstigen West Wall is a fun challenge for experienced via ferrata/rock climbers. If you can climb 5.9 in the gym and 5.8 outdoors and have above average physical conditioning and stamina you can do it. Took us 2 hours 45min from the end of the pavement to the gondola but we were NOT in a group and didn’t get stuck behind anyone. I suspect this could truly take the 5-6 hours the website claims in a group. Things to know: -There is no parking at the start and the start is 1.2 miles from the gondola ($350 NOK) which you most likely want to take down after the via ferrata. If possible have someone drop you off at the start of the via ferrata to skip a long walk through town. -There is a decent amount of very steep uphill climbing at the start and in between sections of the via ferrata which was the most difficult part for my husband who is a better climber than me -I could see the via ferrata being difficult if you are shorter than 5ft 4in. There were many sections where I could just barely reach the next clip or hold. If you are shorter I recommend you be a better climber than stated above and be able to use the natural rock more -This via ferrata uses a lot of traditional metal bars/rings/foot holds. There are some brief sections that rely more on natural rock -There are several (I think 4) overhangs that were challenging but have very good holds. You need a little extra upper body strength to get over them -This was fun even on a misty day and kept the wall cooler. You can always take the gondola back up another sunny day and hike the ridge to...
Read moreAmazing Via Ferrata, grade D, challenging but amazing views that kept getting better and better! Great assortment, lots of variability: bridge, wood, climb, overhang and technical elements! Well maintained and I can't comment enough about the breathtaking views!
Info; Park in Åndalsnes and walk up (we had climbed Romsdalseggen Ridge the day before and spotted the VF on the way down the trappene) the walk is 15 mins ish depending on your Fitness level to the main start area and then another 10/15 mins walk into the forest to start the VF, kit up there.
There are two VFs an intro one (beginner) which ends about 300m into the trappene, 20/25 mim walk down and VestVeggen (West wall for experienced) ends at Nesaksla (Rampestreken route) where there is a magnificent viewpoint we had hiked too the day before. There is also a resturant and toilet facilities. There is an option to get the cable car down (not sure on cost) or take the steps. So, there is fun for all the family of all abilities. We had our own kit, you pay a fee of 100kr per person, but you can rent kit/guide from the...
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