Via ferrata Yves Pollet-Villard

The Yves Pollet-Villard via ferrata, carved into the Borderan cliff above the Col des Aravis, is one of the iconic equipped routes of the Aravis range. Spanning 700 metres with a 300 m elevation gain, it runs mostly as an ascending traverse between 1,500 and 1,800 m altitude, facing the Étale massif. Graded D (difficult), with an optional D+ finish at the R'tourne exit, this via combines ladders, cables, an 80 m-high suspended footbridge and exposed traverses on smooth, weathered limestone.

The route is freely accessible — no ticket booth, no commercial site — but full gear is essential: harness, energy-absorbing double lanyard, helmet and shoes with good grip. Beginners or families with children are strongly advised to go with a certified mountain guide (Bureau des Guides de La Clusaz). By municipal order, access is prohibited from 15 November to 5 May, and strongly discouraged if the face is snow-covered or has not been safety-inspected.

What sets the Pollet-Villard apart from other Haute-Savoie via ferratas is its south-facing exposure — an asset in summer, but very hot midday — and its many grassy ledges that reduce exposure but make the rock slippery in wet conditions. The alpine setting, the plunging view over the Col des Aravis road and the mountain backdrop justify the trip. Allow 20 min approach, 2.5–3 h cabled route and 40–60 min descent on marked trail.