First climbing day in the Alps
On the third day of our trip, we finally got to the main event – climbing! My previous climbing experiences were limited to indoor halls in Finland, so I was excitedly anticipating what conquering a real rock face would feel like. We had embarked on the journey with only carry-on luggage, which restricted the amount of gear we could bring. Furthermore, our outdoor climbing experience was minimal, so we decided to focus on exploring Via Ferrata routes on this trip. This is part 3/7 of the Alps road trip series.
What is a Via Ferrata?
Via Ferratas are pre-built routes on rock faces, consisting of a steel cable bolted into the rock and, if necessary, separate bolted step systems. Originally, these routes were constructed as access paths to difficult mountain areas, but today they are popular among climbing enthusiasts. For many, a Via Ferrata is an experience in itself, and they are no longer primarily used for actual travel.
Ötztal route for beginners
For our first route, we chose the Ötztal Via Ferrata, located in an area better known as the discovery site of Ötzi the Iceman. The route was rated as relatively easy, making it seem like a good choice for beginners.
The route followed a vertical rock face alongside a magnificent waterfall, culminating in a cable crossing above the waterfall's upper reaches. Although the route was classified as easy, it offered breathtaking scenery and just the right amount of excitement. The dramatic landscapes of the area and the roar of the falls made for an unforgettable experience.
We also saw many children bravely climbing the route, which was admirable. It appeared that in the Alps, the hobby of climbing often starts at a young age, and the route's safe construction allowed climbers of many skill levels to participate.
By the river and searching for a night's resting place
After climbing the Via Ferrata, we headed to the bank of a nearby river to cook. The clear-watered river and the surrounding mountains provided a perfect backdrop for relaxing after a strenuous day of climbing. We enjoyed a peaceful moment in nature and recharged our energy for the next adventures.
After eating, we set out to find a suitable place to stay overnight, but it soon became clear that camping was challenging. Overnight parking was explicitly prohibited everywhere by signs, and stopping for the night was made almost impossible under threat of a fine. Eventually, we decided to return to a familiar and safe option: we drove back to Innsbruck and parked in the same gas station lot where we had stayed before.
