Adrenaline lovers, this article is made for you! Halfway between hiking and climbing, via ferrata is a spectacular and exhilarating mountain activity! Accessible to the whole family and all fitness levels, via ferrata is a beloved alpine sport. The goal is to complete an ascent by following a secured route, dotted with equipment that makes progression easier and more fun, such as cables, ladders, bridges, zip-lines... Prepare your helmet, harness, and lanyard—Travelise has found the most beautiful via ferrata routes in Switzerland just for you.
Via ferrata du Moléson - Fribourg
Two routes to climb the north face of the iconic Fribourg summit. It takes about 3 hours to follow the 1310 m of cable to the top of Moléson. This via ferrata is considered difficult and is completely shaded, so dress accordingly.
Via Farinetta de Saillon - Valais
The vertiginous via ferrata of Saillon is located in the Salentze gorge between the village of Saillon and Leytron. Situated under the impressive Farinet bridge (named after the famous local counterfeiter with a dedicated museum in the village), these two routes are rated difficult and very difficult—so be prepared to avoid finishing the trail by helicopter.
Travelise tip: along the route, you’ll find a natural hot spring to soothe your muscles.
Via ferrata de Nax - Valais
Ideal for beginners, this route is considered one of the easiest in the region. It's open almost year-round and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. This via ferrata offers one of the most beautiful views over the Rhône Valley and Valais.
Travelise tip: take time to picnic at the summit.
Via ferrata de Murren - Berne
Here you’ll explore a via ferrata that overlooks the Lauterbrunnen Valley. The start is at the summit of the Schilthorn cable car (1,638 m). The route lasts about 3 hours and spans approximately 1,800 m. This section is unusual in that it's downhill—you’ll need around 3 hours to reach Gimmelwald. Prepare for stunning views of the Bernese Alps.
Via ferrata de Champéry - Valais
The Tière via ferrata is one of the shortest in this list at 460 m long. Add an approach hike (30–45 min) and return (45–60 min), and the via ferrata itself takes about 30–45 minutes.
It starts at the Sous‑Scex bridge (~900 m) and ends at 1,190 m. You'll climb along a rock face inclined at 75° above the Tière gorge waterfalls.
Via ferrata d’Allmenalp Kandersteg - Berne
For enthusiasts: one of Switzerland’s most difficult via ferrata routes! Rated extremely difficult, expect about 3 hours for the route (plus 20 min approach, return by cable car or 2 h walk). You'll follow the Allmibach waterfall along a 350 m high rock wall with ladders and embedded iron pins.
Travelise tip: avoid in wet weather.
Via ferrata du Rocher de Naye - Vaud
One of the most scenic via ferratas in French-speaking Switzerland: enjoy sweeping views of Lake Geneva. The route is intense, reserved for highly fit and strong-armed adventurers. Access via cogwheel train from Montreux to Jaman or by road via Caux. Expect ~1 h 30 of via ferrata plus 30–50 minutes approach.
Via ferrata de Moiry - Valais
Two routes above the Moiry dam at 2,249 m in Val d’Anniviers: one difficult and one very difficult. Before reaching the end, you'll find a resting table to enjoy views of the lake (ideal for a picnic or fondue).
Travelise tip: portable fondue kits can be reserved via the Tourist Office.
Open from mid-June (dam road access) to around end of October.
Via ferrata de San Salvatore - Ticino
On Monte San Salvatore above Lugano, this via ferrata offers breathtaking views of the lake and Alps. A “Dolomiti”-style route—with minimal artificial equipment on the rock wall. Rated very difficult, with a 130 m vertical gain over 300 m in length. Open year-round.
In conclusion, Switzerland offers a variety of via ferrata routes giving nature and adventure lovers incredible experiences. The breathtaking views of mountains, cliffs, and lakes, combined with well-maintained trails and high-quality safety gear, provide a secure and enjoyable via ferrata experience for novices and experts alike. These via ferrata routes are known for their accessibility and variety, offering difficulty levels for every taste. If you're seeking an exciting, challenging activity with stunning landscapes, via ferrata is your ideal choice.
The most beautiful via ferrata routes in Switzerland are must-visit places for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
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