Roc du Cornillon via ferrata in Bourdeau (Savoie)

Description

Majestically overlooking Lake Bourget, the Roc de Cornillon via ferrata, also known as the "Dent du Chat via ferrata" is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and accessible routes in the Savoie department. Located in the commune of Bourdeau, above the Col du Chat pass, it offers an exceptional natural balcony with a breathtaking view of the turquoise waters of the lake and the surrounding mountain ranges (Bauges and Aravis).

The route is divided into two main sections: the « Primevère à oreille d'ours » (Primrose with Bear's Ear) and the Roc de Cornillon. It is an ideal route for families and beginners, as it is not very physically demanding but very visually rewarding. The ascent takes place on sculpted limestone, alternating between vertiginous horizontal traverses and sections on beams, all within a pristine natural setting.

The « Primevère à oreille d'ours » route is named after a rare spring plant found on the cliff face, which you will have the opportunity to see. This section consists of a long traverse from right to left with several beams, some of them vertiginous, that allow you to cross dihedrals, followed by an unusual and somewhat intimidating descending ladder, and finally a tunnel a few meters long. It continues up a short, steep pillar, a few more beams, and a rope bridge. At the end of this section, an escape route allows you to return to the parking area.

The Roc de Cornillon route, meanwhile, allows you to continue the adventure by climbing the slabs of the south face and comfortable ledges, enjoying a breathtaking atmosphere. The panorama is magnificent all the way to the final pillar, which you must climb for a few dozen meters to reach the end of the via ferrata. You will finally reach the Roc de Cornillon viewpoint where you can enjoy one last time the view of the surrounding mountains and peaks, before returning to the parking lot via the path taken on the way there.

If you would like to continue the adventure, I also suggest other routes in the region:

• the Jacques Revaclier via ferrata on Mont Salève,
• the easy Nant de Rossane via ferrata in Aillon,
• and the challenging Roche à l'Agathe via ferrata in Thônes in the Aravis mountains.

You can also follow me for a discovery of outdoor climbing around Annecy or Aix-les-Bains.

Program

• Meet at the Col du Chat parking area (Bourdeau/Saint-Jean-de-Chevelu villages).
  Allow 20 minutes drive from Chambéry and 45 minutes from Annecy.
• Easy 20-30 minute approach walk in the forest on a trail that leads to the Roc de Cornillon viewpoint.
• Equipment and briefing: setting up equipment and explanations on safety rules and progression techniques specific to via ferrata.
• Via ferrata (1.5 to 2 hours):
  • traversing vertiginous ledges offering a 180° view of Lake Bourget,
  • passing through several beams and monkey bridges (easy but impressive),
  • progressing on well-positioned rungs making climbing easier for children (from 8 to 10 years old).
• 20-minute return walk along the same path as the outward journey to get back to the parking lot.

The price includes

• Supervision by the climbing instructor.
• Loan of technical safety equipment meeting PPE standards:
  • Adjustable harness.
  • Via ferrata lanyards with energy absorber.
  • Helmet.
• Professional liability insurance of the instructor.

The price does not include

• Return transport to the Col du Chat parking lot.
• Drinks, snacks, or a picnic (remember to bring water, the site is very sunny in the afternoon).
• Your sportswear: closed-toe sports shoes (sneakers or light hiking boots), comfortable clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Personal accident insurance (strongly recommended for mountain activities).
• Anything not mentioned in "The price includes".

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