Pont du Diable via ferrata (Thueyts, Ardèche)
Duration : ½ day
France, Massif Central
Level : discovery - from 10 years old
from 45 € / p. from 1 to 10 persons
Infos & Booking
Description
I suggest you climb together the one and only via ferrata in the Ardèche department.
Located below the village of Thueyts and the "Chaussée des Géants" (basaltic flow from the Strombolian volcano of Gravenne de Thueyts), this route winds over volcanic rock along cables and above the sparkling waters of the Ardèche river, just upstream of the historic Pont du Diable for which it is named. It combines thrills and spectacular natural beauty in all seasons.
After a short approach walk, the via ferrata begins almost at the level of the watercourse. The first part offers a low monkey bridge then goes up a steep rocky pillar overlooking the Ardèche (magnificent dihedral), then continues with a succession of crossings to the right and left and small vertical walls to reach the start of the large 90-meter long zip line. Here it is possible to take an escape route but it would be a shame not to discover what happens next!
The zipline allows you to get your fill of thrills and takes you to the right bank of the river where the second part of the via ferrata takes place. This begins with a footbridge followed by a pillar about thirty meters high. It continues with an easy crossing on a path which reaches a cave and allows you to climb a very steep wall. At its summit, a diagonal descent leads to another vertical pillar, followed by a new crossing on a path. It is then time to tackle the last difficulty: a very steep and vertiginous wall, but well equipped.
After enjoying the view of the surroundings from the summit orientation table, a path takes us to the Pont du Diable (Devil's bridge) and then to the parking lot in a few minutes.
Program
- Meet at 9am or 1.30pm at the Pont du Diable parking lot in the village of Thueyts.
Important: remember to drive slowly in the hamlets and villages you pass through. - 5-minute approach walk to reach the start of the via.
- Around 2 hours to complete the via ferrata.
- Walk back 10 minutes to find the parking lot.
- Via ferrata accessible all year round.
The price includes
- Supervision by the climbing instructor.
- Loan of recent technical equipment meeting CE standards: helmet, harness, pulley, double via ferrata lanyard with energy absorber.
- Insurance as well as the right of access to the site.
- Normal price: 45€/person.
Reduced rate for groups already formed from 5 people: 40€/person.
The price does not include
- Return transport to the village of Thueyts, a 30-minute drive northeast of Aubenas.
- Clothing adapted to the practice of sport and the weather.
- Closed sports shoes.
- Enough to tie long hair.
- A bottle of water (1.5 liters per person).
- Snacks (cereal bars).
- Anything not mentioned in "The price includes".