Adrenaline junkies will be offered a new opportunity to “walk on the wild side” when Scotland’s first via ferrata opens on a Highland cliff.
The unique outdoor climbing experience using almost 1,500ft of metal staples and cable bridges to climb a rock face alongside Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall at Kinlochleven, near Glencoe, is due to open on Friday March 28.
Via ferrata – Latin for “iron ways” – were originally used in the war to get soldiers across the Alps and Dolomites, but they have now become a big leisure activity for climbers.
And it is hoped the new tourist attraction will encourage even more climbers to visit this area of the Highlands, which is already known as the Outdoor Capital of the UK.
The new development in Kinlochleven will provide access to a previously unreachable environment, say the company.
The route, which climbs up through stunning scenery with spectacular viewpoints, is designed to be accessible yet challenging for people with a wide range of climbing abilities.
Via Ferrata Scotland (VFS) says participants will be permanently attached to a continuous safety cable which, combined with expert guiding provided by the company, will make this adventure activity both “exhilarating” and “as safe as possible”.
Ben Starkie, owner of VFS and its sister company Vertical Descents, said: “I based this exciting and ambitious project on certain principles which include sustainability, environmental responsibility and wide public accessibility combined with local business growth and employment.”
“I am confident it will be one of the most exciting adventure activities to hit the local area and the rest of the UK.”
He added that VFS was also working to provide open access to the 300ft waterfall for visitors who wish to remain on terra firma.
The new venture is sponsored by Petzl and part-funded by West Coast Communities Growth Trust administered by Foundation Scotland. It is also supported by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and land owner Alcan Rio Tinto. HIE development manager, Ian Philp, said: “HIE is delighted to be supporting this innovative facility. The via ferrata will be the first of its kind in Scotland and will complement the existing tourism activity in Lochaber.
“The new facility will attract additional visitors to the area and will create many economic benefits for other local businesses close by.”