Belvédère, Via ferrata and zip-line viewpoint in Thueyts, France.
The Belvédère via ferrata stretches approximately 1,610 feet (490 meters) along cliff faces above the Ardèche River, featuring metal footholds, ladders, suspension bridges, and a 394-foot (120-meter) zip-line crossing at a height of about 295 feet (90 meters).
The route traverses near the historic Pont du Diable stone bridge, a medieval structure shrouded in local legends, and climbs through basaltic rock formations created by ancient volcanic activity that shaped the geological character of the Ardèche region.
The via ferrata reflects the French tradition of making mountain routes accessible to recreational climbers, transforming military-era techniques into popular outdoor activities that allow participants of various skill levels to experience vertical terrain with proper safety equipment and guidance.
The course is rated AD+ on the French difficulty scale and requires climbers to wear harnesses, helmets, pulleys, and lanyards, with equipment available for rent at the site starting at eighteen euros per person, and access begins from the parking area at 1345 Route du Pont du Diable.
Climbers complete the route by ascending the King's Ladder through basaltic flows, crossing a suspension bridge over the river gorge, and finishing at a panoramic viewpoint table of orientation that overlooks the volcanic rock formations known as basaltic organs and the valley below.
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