A via ferrata in Belgium, very easy and beginner-friendly. The setting is stunning, inside the grounds of the Castel hotel, surrounded by 25 hectares of nature. Ideal for an introduction and a ride along the ridge.
A via ferrata in Belgium, very easy and beginner-friendly. The setting is stunning, inside the grounds of the Castel hotel, surrounded by 25 hectares of nature. Despite its easiness (I am used to big Alpine via ferratas), it is one I do fairly often. It reminds me slightly of the mountains: the rock is magnificent and the ride along the ridge is very pleasant and scenic.
You are surrounded by nature in a kind of valley carved by the river, with, here and there, a few rocks piercing through this green expanse.
Introduction passages and climbing routes
When you reach the end of the via ferrata, several small introduction loops sit around the last rock. You can even find a TD-graded passage (very difficult) for those wanting to test their limits after a quiet climb.
You will also find a large number of climbing routes around the via ferrata, as well as on the small surrounding cliffs.
Specific access, CAB required
Heads up, access to via ferratas in Belgium is very different from other countries, and also varies from one via ferrata to the next.
To access this one, you need to be up to date with your CAB (Club Alpin Belge) membership or request a day invitation. The process is simple and the daily insurance has you covered.
More info in my complete guide to via ferratas in Belgium.
Gallery
5 photos, click to enlarge
Information
Access +
The via ferrata sits behind the Castel hotel, at the back of the grounds. Head slightly up a path on the right after the pond. Access via CAB (Club Alpin Belge) or day invitation.
Weather and conditions, Dinant +
Weather, the first safety check
Wet cables are treacherous. Some routes close in winter or during nesting season, always check official information before heading out.
Video
Before heading out on a via ferrata
Technical learning is less complex than climbing, but this activity carries risks that should not be underestimated. If you are a beginner, I strongly recommend going out the first few times with experienced people or paying for guidance (clubs in Belgium or a mountain guide).
I also invite you to check a friend's forum on the subject:
Learn about via ferrata, franceviaferrata.frFeel free to contact me if I am in Belgium to climb together.
Le Belge Alpin
More about David →Questions fréquentes
Is the Pont-a-Lesse via ferrata suitable for beginners?
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Yes, it is in fact one of the few Belgian via ferratas truly accessible to beginners. Graded F (easy), the progression along the ridge is gentle, with magnificent rock and a green setting. Ideal for a first experience or for bringing along someone testing the discipline.
Are there harder sections?
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Yes. At the end of the route, several small introduction loops branch out around the last rock, including a TD-graded passage (very difficult) for those wanting to test their limits after the quiet climb. Perfect for moving a beginner up a notch without losing them on the whole route.
How do you reach the Pont-a-Lesse via ferrata?
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The route sits behind the Castel hotel, at the back of the 25 hectare estate. From the pond, head slightly up a path on the right. Parking at the Castel car park, clear signage on site. Waze and Google Maps coordinates available to signed-in users.
Do you need to be a CAB member?
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Yes, access requires a Club Alpin Belge membership or a day invitation. The invitation is easy to get and includes daily insurance. No slot booking like at Fond des Cris, but the membership card or invitation is checked at the entrance.
Can you climb the nearby cliffs?
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Yes, the estate holds a large number of climbing routes, around the via ferrata as well as on the small surrounding cliffs. Handy to combine the via ferrata and a few routes on the same day if you also climb.