Well protected and ingeniously designed, it is a must-do for any adventure seeker who visits Kalymnos.

A via ferrata (Italian for “iron road”, plural vie ferrate or in English via ferratas) is a protected climbing route found in the Alps and certain other locations. The essence of a modern via ferrata is a steel cable which runs along the route and is periodically (every 1 to 10 metres (3.3 to 32.8 ft) fixed to the rock.

Using a via ferrata kit, climbers can secure themselves to the cable, limiting any fall. The cable can also be used as an aid to climbing and additional climbing aids, such as iron rungs (stemples), pegs, carved steps and even ladders and bridges are often provided. Thus via ferratas allow otherwise dangerous routes to be undertaken without the risks associated with unprotected scrambling and climbing or the need for climbing equipment such as ropes. They offer the relatively inexperienced a means of enjoying dramatic positions and accessing difficult peaks, normally reserved for the experienced mountaineers; although there is a need for some equipment, a good head for heights and basic technique, the via ferrata can be seen as a distinct step up from ordinary mountain walking. Conversely, the modest equipment requirements, ability to do them solo, and potential to cover a lot of ground, mean that via ferratas can also appeal to more experienced climbers.

The origins of the via ferrata as we know it, date back to the nineteenth century. Simple protected paths, with ladders and basic protection aids, have probably existed in the Alps for centuries, helping connect villages to their high pastures. More recently, they are often associated with the First World War, when several were built in the Dolomite mountain region of Italy to aid the movement of troops.

The Via delle Bocchette, Brenta Dolomites region, Italy, is still considered as the classic one & the holy grail of via ferrata lovers.

You can read more information about the history & present of via ferratas here.

points for vf on Kalymnos

Via ferrata on Kalymnos is a relatively small, approximately 300m, easy – moderate to access and to complete route, bolted by Claude Idoux in 2008. Located in Myrties approximately (Lat/Long) 36.991220,26.936967.

Nevertheless, it does not mean that it lacks in any other respect related to via ferratas. It is fun, offers amazing views of Telendos and the whole Myrties / Masouri area, it is well protected and ingeniously designed, it is a must-do for any adventure seeker who visits Kalymnos.

It consists of three major parts, easy & fun scrambling at the beginning, when some ropes could be used for extra security. Following that, the fixed cable starts on a steep slab which could be easily hiked. As you go up, there is the traverse, about 40m long, steep and horizontal, protected also with iron fixed steps & holds on the rock. In between them, the cable always protects your steps, using the special equipment provided. Then, you find yourself in a huge cave with an even more comfortable ledge, where you can even untie yourself fully protected and relax enjoying the amazing view. It is very common, as in every Kalymnos crag, to be visited by a goat, who will have your snacks in mind! After relaxing there for a couple of moments, the 3rd and final part begins towards the other side of the cave, an easier yet still steep path, which will gradually lead you to the top of the mountain and the end of your course.

The hiking is not finished yet. After feeling on the top of the world, as seen in photos and videos, after taking your own pictures of accomplishment, you start the descend. You can chose among two options. Either walking down & around the left side, towards the Symplegades sector, finishing in the Kamari area, or rappelling down.

Being situated on the greater Gerakios sector, via ferrata finishes close to anchor points used by the multi pitch routes there, also equipped by Claude Idoux (Copains D’abord, etc.). Rappelling down is a fun, quicker and more adventurous way, on the other hand, if you chose the walking path, you will be doing some botanical and historical sight seeing, as the greater area behind those peaks was home to local ancient settlements, which can still be seen with the naked eye.