Via Ferrata La Hermida
#NUMBER 1 SINCE 2016
LEVEL:
BEGINNER*
*If you have never done this type of activity, we highly recommend using a guide.
WHAT ARE VIA FERRATAS?
Via ferratas are sport routes equipped with steps, cables, pegs, ramps, handrails, and various devices designed to ensure the safety of users and facilitate their progression. They are particularly intended for individuals who are not accustomed to traditional climbing techniques, ensuring a safe ascent experience.
WHO ARE THE VIA FERRATAS AIMED AT?
Via ferratas are suitable for mountain enthusiasts seeking new thrills in the mountains, especially those who may not be drawn to or have a deep respect for traditional climbing. They are also ideal for climbers returning after a hiatus and adventurous individuals seeking more intense experiences. This activity is highly popular among both young and older adults who find activities like hiking insufficient. It is advisable to have a basic level of physical fitness and some familiarity with heights before attempting a via ferrata.
EQUIPMENT AND SAFETY
Access to the Via Ferratas is free. However, for inexperienced individuals, we strongly recommend being accompanied by a guide. The essential equipment needed to enjoy a via ferrata includes a helmet, harness, and an energy dissipator with approved carabiners. If you do not own any of these items or need complete equipment, renting options are available.
VIA FERRATA LA HERMIDA
Duration: 4-6 hours
Maximum gradient: 700m
The via ferrata is located in the Hermida Gorge, specifically in the town of La Hermida. The route includes beginner paths with escape routes primarily designed for children. As we gain height, we can choose between crossing the Tibetan bridge and another board bridge or ascending to the Ciloña Cave, which extends the activity.
VIA FERRATA SKETCH LA HERMIDA
PRICES
NUMBER OF PEOPLE | PRICE PER PERSON |
|---|---|
Up to 2 people | 60€ |
3 people plus | 50€ |
WHAT DOES THE PRICE INCLUDE?
- Complete equipment included (Harness-Helmet-Helmet)
- Specialized guide
- Civil Liability Insurance
- Accident Insurance
- Route Photos
MANDATORY EQUIPMENT RENTAL
EQUIPMENT | PRICE PER PERSON |
|---|---|
Helmet | 6€ |
Harness | 6€ |
Shock-Absorbing Lanyards | 8€ |
Full Equipment | 20€ |
RENTAL HOUSE SCHEDULE (LOS LLANOS)
Summer hours, (July 1 to September 17), weekends and Easter:
Morning: 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Afternoon and evening: 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
From 18th September until 1st November the booth will remain open every weekend.
3 Daily departure times to do The Via Ferrata with a guide:
– Morning: 9.00am
– Afternoon: 12:15
– Evening: 5.00pm
If you want to use these services during the week, contact us!
In the Hermida Gorge, the gateway to the Liébana region, we find very interesting and diverse via ferrata options. In summer 2022, a new route, stairway to Heaven, was inaugurated providing a greater variety of adventures within the town of La Hermida.
Via ferrata El Milar
The El Milar via ferrata features a 200m route that crosses over the Deva River. It begins with a small bridge formed by a chain and has three sections. The first section is a 20m dihedral on an ascending diagonal, the second section is a crossing that runs above the river with a small drop and the third section is an exit dihedral with few steps and holds on the rock.
At the top, there is a flag. From there, we will descend to the river and cross it with a 30m zip line.
El Milar is notable for its aerial and vertical environment over the waters of the Deva River. Its main attractions are its varied climbs with a certain intensity and its exciting ending.
PRICE PER PERSON |
|---|
40€ |
WHAT DOES THE PRICE INCLUDE?
- Complete equipment included (Harness-Helmet-Helmet)
- Specialized guide
- Civil Liability Insurance
- Accident Insurance
- Route Photos
Stairway to Heaven
Stairway to Heaven begins with a short path that leads to the base of the stairs. Before reaching the first step, we must cross a small but intense Nepalese chain bridge, which gives us a taste of what’s to come. The staircase is about 50 meters long and connects to a small rocky spire, leading to the top of the wall where it ends.
It is advisable to attach one carabiner of the heatsink to each stair railing, rather than both to the same one.
Throughout the entire route, we must use an energy absorption system (dissipative tape), a harness, and a helmet. These are essential for safety, ensuring we remain attached to the lifeline (steel cable) provided throughout the journey.
Once we reach the top of the Stairway to Heaven, the rest of the route offers a simple climb through typical ridge terrain. The end of the itinerary converges with the end of the Peñaruscos ferrata (difficulty K-6). It is important not to confuse the return path (straight) with that of the Peñaruscos ferrata (left and down).
The return is done on foot and takes just 15 minutes. First, we climb down a simple pass and continue a few meters through the forest, quickly connecting with the town of La Hermida.
PRICE PER PERSON |
|---|
35€ |
WHAT DOES THE PRICE INCLUDE?
- Complete equipment included (Harness-Helmet-Helmet)
- Specialized guide
- Civil Liability Insurance
- Accident Insurance
- Route Photos
Via ferrata El Milar + Stairway to Heaven
Duration: 2h 30 min aproximadamente
To enjoy a comprehensive adventure, it is ideal to combine two of La Hermida’s via ferratas: El Milar and Escalera al Cielo. Separately, both ferratas are interesting, although they can feel somewhat short. By linking both routes, we create a varied and intense activity, providing a great incentive for planning a day of via ferrata.
PRICE PER PERSON |
|---|
50€ |
WHAT DOES THE PRICE INCLUDE?
- Complete equipment included (Harness-Helmet-Helmet)
- Specialized guide
- Civil Liability Insurance
- Accident Insurance
- Route Photos
Information of interest about El Milar + Stairway to Heaven
Difficulty:
The route is classified as K-4 (medium-advanced difficulty) for Escalera al Cielo and K-3 (medium difficulty) for El Milar. However, assessing the difficulty of a via ferrata can be somewhat subjective. In my opinion, the climbs in El Milar can be intense for those who are not accustomed to them, which is why I would rate it as K-4. On the other hand, in Stairway to Heaven, the physical-technical difficulty is very low, with the psychological factor being the most significant challenge. In any case, it is essential to undertake the activity with a guide if you lack sufficient equipment, knowledge, and experience.
Who is it recommended for?
The tour is suitable for people with or without previous experience (when accompanied by a guide). Physically, there are no specific requirements, although having a habit of regular exercise is advisable. On a psychological level, it is not recommended for those who have a panic or excessive fear of heights.