Via Ferrata Yves Pollet-Villard
The via ferrata Yves Pollet-Villard is in a great position close to the Col des Aravis and near the village of La Clusaz in Haute Savoie.? It is a beautifully situated above the alpine pastures and as you approach the route you may hear the sound of cow bells.? You may even want to visit one of the nearby farms selling Reblochon (the local cheese).
Leaving the car park the path leads you up through pine woods before you emerge at the base of the cliff.? There’s rock climbing routes to your left.? The via ferrata starts on steep limestone and overall takes a rising traverse up the cliff.? A short steep section close to the start gives you an idea of the difficulty that you may encounter.? Easier ground leads to a steep section, “le donjon des Deux Niches” (the dungeon of the two nests literally translated).? As you progress the route unfolds.
One of the classic views of the via ferrata Yves Pollet-Villard is a “Nepal Bridge” of about 20m, in an airy position.? This takes you on to another steep wall.? The route continues until, close to the end, two choices present themselves.? Either get ready for a short but sharp section with an overhang to test your arms and motivation or continue traversing before arriving at the end of the route.
The descent is straightforward across some inclined slabs before reaching wooded terrain, and a footpath leading down to the car park.
Mark’s Opinion
A superb via ferrata to be savoured!
