, Via ferrata in the Gorges de Sarenne, Isère, France

Via ferrata de Pierre Ronde is a via ferrata on a cliff face in the Gorges de Sarenne, near Alpe d'Huez in the French Alps. It offers two routes: a gentler discovery path through the gorge and a harder route that climbs a vertical wall before crossing airy passages high above the valley.

Via ferrata de Pierre Ronde was built in 1999 as part of the Alpe d'Huez ski resort's development into a year-round destination. When it opened, it featured many iron rungs but offered less direct contact with the natural rock than more recent routes.

Visitors drive to the parking area near Pierre Ronde and then walk roughly 30 minutes downhill to reach the start of the route. Gear such as a harness, helmet, and via ferrata set can be rented locally, so there is no need to bring your own equipment.

Although the discovery route is rated as easy, it still finishes with open passages hanging above the gorge, which often surprises first-time visitors. The two routes can be joined mid-climb, letting you switch from the easier to the harder line depending on how you feel on the day.