Via Ferrata at the Tour d'Aï, Leysin

The via ferrata at the Tour d'Aï, above Leysin in the canton of Vaud, is one of the most dramatic fixed-cable routes in Switzerland. The route climbs the vertical limestone face of the Tour d'Aï with steel rungs, ladders, cables and a suspension bridge across a cliff gap, with views over the Rhône valley and the Dents du Midi. It is reached from Geneva by train to Aigle, then the Leysin rack railway, and finally the Tour d'Aï cable car from Leysin Feydey, a journey of about 1 hour 45 minutes and roughly 100 km from the city. The cable car ticket costs about CHF 25 to 40, and guided outings cost about CHF 90 to 130. The route is graded difficult and is suitable for fit adults who have a head for heights, sure footing and good upper-body strength, since long sections are vertical or overhanging. Children are generally allowed only with a guide and if they meet the height and experience requirements set by operators. A complete via ferrata set with energy-absorbing lanyards, a helmet, a harness and gloves is required, and equipment can be hired in the village. Visitors should also bring hiking boots, water and a packed lunch, as the outing takes four to five hours in total. Local mountain guides in Leysin, certified through the Swiss mountain guide association, can lead groups and teach clip-in technique, and a safety briefing covers the use of the lanyard, rest positions and communication. There is no easy exit from the middle of the route, so participants should be sure of their fitness before starting. Mountain rescue by helicopter is available through Rega in an emergency. The season runs from June to October, when snow has cleared and the rock is dry. Thunderstorms, wet rock, strong wind and early-season snow are the main conditions to avoid, and the cable car may close in poor weather. Leysin tourist office at leysin.ch can confirm the current status of the route.