Via Ferrata du Roc de Cornillon

The Via Ferrata du Roc de Cornillon sits high above Lake Bourget in Savoie, France. It’s accessible from the Col du Chat, near La Chapelle-du-Mont-du-Chat / Bourdeau, and offers a dramatic panorama of the lake and surrounding alpine ridges. It’s ideal as a beginner-friendly via ferrata experience, blending fun elements (bridges, ladders) with great scenic reward.

Key Facts & Technical Info

• Location: Above Lake Bourget, Col du Chat parking area, Savoie, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.

• Altitude start: approx. 800 m – 820 m.

• Route structure: Two linked sections:

  • “Primrose to Bear’s Ear” (“Primevère à Oreille d’Ours”) — longer, more varied.

  • “Roc de Cornillon” — shorter, easier, very suitable for beginners/families.

• Length & Difficulty:

  • The longer section: ~250 m in length (cable/route length) rated ~ AD+ (“assez difficile”/fairly difficult) in French rating.

  • The easier section: ~120 m long, rated PD+ (“peu difficile”/slightly difficult).

• Approach & Return Times:

  • Approach: ~25-30 minutes uphill from the parking at Col du Chat.

  • Via ferrata traverse: around 45 minutes to ~1 hour depending on section and pace.

  • Return descent: ~15-35 minutes.

• Minimum age / suitability: From around 8–10 years old (when guided or supervised) if using the easier section, making it very family-friendly.

• Open period: Generally April to September or all year depending on weather; verify local conditions beforehand.

• Cost & equipment: Parking is free; the via ferrata itself is free/out-of-pocket for self-guided use, though guided services are offered with full equipment.

What Makes It Special

• Spectacular setting: The route overlooks Lake Bourget and offers expansive views across the water and surrounding mountains. The panorama is often praised as one of the highlights.

• Two distinct sections: You can choose the easier “Cornillon” section if you’re trying via ferrata for the first time, or continue into the more adventurous “Primrose to Bear’s Ear” section with more exposure and elements like a monkey bridge, beams, and traverses.

• Fun features & initiation friendly: Elements include ladders, tunnels, monkey bridges, footbridges, and ledges, making it playful and less technical than many via ferratas. Great for beginners or families.

• Short time commitment: Because the traverse is relatively short, you can enjoy the experience in a half-day outing including approach and return, making it accessible even if you have limited time.

Routes & Experience Breakdown

Section 1 – “Primrose to Bear’s Ear”

• This section is longer (~250 m) and rated AD+.

• Begins with a traverse along the cliff face, then includes wooden sleepers/beams across a vertical drop (~50 m of exposure) and a short tunnel or cave-feature.

• For those less comfortable with exposure there are escape routes before/after certain parts.

• At the end you reach a belvedere with stunning lake views.

Section 2 – “Roc de Cornillon”

• Approx. 120 m long, rated PD+ (fairly easy).

• Less exposed, simpler climbing; more about enjoying the view and experiencing via ferrata structure in an easier format.

Practical Information & Tips

• Getting there: Drive to the Col du Chat parking (route D914 from Bourget-du-Lac or Aix-les-Bains). Signs for Via Ferrata du Roc de Cornillon / Dent du Chat.

• Equipment: Use proper hiking shoes or trail shoes (solid tread); bring water, snack, layered clothes (the wind can pick up); gloves for via ferrata can be useful. For guided outings they provide harness, helmet, via ferrata lanyards/absorber.

• Weather & timing: Start early in hotter months to avoid midday sun; check for wet rock conditions — exposure means that slippery sections are less safe. Afternoon thunderstorms relatively common in Alps.

• Escape options: If a section feels too exposed or challenging, there are bailout routes between the two main sections. Good to know for less experienced climbers.

• Combine activities: Because it’s close to Lake Bourget and other adventure sports (canyoning, hiking), you might combine the via ferrata with other outings in the region.

• Family & beginner friendly: As highlighted, this is among the most accessible via ferratas in the region, making it a great choice if you’re building your outdoor brand (and want content for 'family-friendly alpine adventure').

Why It’s Worth Doing

• Accessible mountain adventure without committing to a full summiting expedition or multi-day trek.

• Stunning visuals and “content-friendly” scenery — perfect for your All Alps / All Hiking brand: drone shots above the lake, slow-motion crossing a monkey bridge, wide Alpine valley vistas.

• Stories to tell — the cliff above the lake, steps across beams, the echo of the rock, views opening out — rich storytelling material.

• Versatility — suitable for mixed-ability groups (families, friends, first timers) but still offers enough thrill for those who want a light challenge.

• Great location for your Alpine brand — close to other key spots in the Savoie/Chambéry/Aix-les-Bains region; you can shoot gear, lifestyle, adventure, nature, culture.