From 15 June to 15 September, access to forest areas is regulated according to the level of wildfire risk. The Cavaillon Via Ferrata is affected by these restrictions.
Before each outing, check the access conditions for the day:
Telephone information line: 04 28 31 77 11
Important reminders:
Find all the useful information you need to prepare your outing: routes, safety instructions, mandatory equipment and access map.
Download the leafletSince 1 June 2013, the Cavaillon Via Ferrata has been directly accessible on foot, just a few minutes from the town centre. It offers sweeping views of Mont Ventoux, the Monts de Vaucluse, the Luberon, the Durance Valley and the Alpilles.
The route consists of two loops crossing in a figure-eight shape, with two escape routes. The course is equipped with a continuous safety line and various features that allow you to progress safely.
From the Cavaillon Tourist Office, allow around 20 minutes on foot to reach the start of this vertical adventure.
Take the montée César de Bus, accessible via the staircase to the right of the Tourist Office. Within a few minutes, you gain height and reach the foot of the cliff.
Once there, enjoy an exceptional panoramic view over the Luberon, the Durance Valley and, on a clear day, as far as the Alpilles.
GPS coordinates: 43°50'16.30"N, 5° 1'59.40"E
The Via Ferrata is accessible all year round, except in adverse weather conditions. Access is free for visitors equipped with their own gear.
Need a guide or want to hire equipment? Find all the useful information at the end of the article.
For a preview of the experience before you set off, discover the story and photos from an afternoon on the Cavaillon Via Ferrata by clicking here.
The Cavaillon Via Ferrata consists of two complementary loops. The first, Via Natura, offers a gradual introduction to the activity in a spectacular setting. The second, Via Souterrata, is a more challenging route featuring vertical sections, caves and thrilling obstacles.
The Via Natura loop is the most accessible part of the route. It is ideal for a first introduction to Via Ferrata, provided you are over 1.30 m tall and have the appropriate equipment.
Designed as a discovery route, it allows you to observe life on the cliffs from interpretation terraces dedicated to local wildlife, plants and heritage. The route combines sporting activity, landscape interpretation and discovery of the natural environment.
From the cliff face, you can enjoy magnificent views over Cavaillon, the Luberon, the Monts de Vaucluse and, on a clear day, as far as Mont Ventoux.
The Via Souterrata loop is the most challenging part of the route. Reserved for participants over 1.50 m tall, it requires greater confidence, stamina and ease with heights.
This route crosses the grottes du Colombier before reaching the Beaumes de Combarelles using more spectacular installations. Vertical sections, monkey bridges, cave bridges and underground crawl passages shape this unusual experience.
Via Souterrata offers a fun, sporty and educational approach to the distinctive relief of Cavaillon’s cliffs. Its originality also lies in the two caves that can be explored on the way back, crawling through them in a caving-style experience.
Each via ferrata has its own difficulty rating. This indicates the technical level, physical effort and confidence required before setting out on the route.
These ratings may sometimes be followed by a + or a - to provide a more precise indication of the level of difficulty.
Before choosing your route, take the time to consider your ability, physical fitness and experience with heights and exposed sections.
Via ferratas rated F and PD involve relatively moderate difficulties. They may be suitable for a first experience, provided you have the correct equipment and are accompanied if necessary.
Routes rated AD and D are more technical, while remaining suitable for discovery by participants who are comfortable with heights and physical effort.
Routes rated TD and ED require good physical endurance, strength and some experience of vertical or exposed sections.
Before setting out on the Cavaillon Via Ferrata, make sure you have suitable equipment in good condition.
A helmet, harness and safety system are essential for progressing safely along the cables, footbridges and cliffside sections.
Also remember to bring enough water, sun protection and a suitable way to carry your belongings comfortably throughout the route.
Safety advice: we recommend that beginners and those new to via ferrata, in particular, are accompanied by a professional guide or instructor to enjoy the experience safely.
Don’t have your own equipment? Two rental providers in Cavaillon offer via ferrata equipment for hire. Remember to check opening hours and collection conditions before your outing.
Address: 176, place François Tourel, Cavaillon
Tel.: 04 90 74 30 12
Rental price: €15 / person
Opening hours
Practical information: equipment can be collected until 4 pm for the short route.
Address: 166, cours Léon Gambetta, Cavaillon
Tel.: 04 90 71 72 48
Rental price: €15 / person
Opening hours, from March to October
Practical information: equipment can be collected until 4 pm.
For a first experience or to progress safely, you can call on a professional guide. Guided outings allow you to benefit from technical advice, appropriate supervision and, depending on the service, equipment may be included.
Guided outing price: from €35 to €50 / person, with equipment included depending on the service.
Planning your climb? Find all the information you need about the Cavaillon Via Ferrata in the dedicated guidebook.
It is available to purchase at the Tourist Office welcome desks in Cavaillon, Gordes and Lourmarin, as well as from the Tourist Office online shop.
Climbing enthusiasts will also find details of the 276 equipped climbing routes on Saint-Jacques hill, a true playground for climbers of all levels.
Buy the guidebookPhoto gallery
Practical information on The Via Ferrata of Cavaillon
Opening times and periods
From 01/01 to 31/12 daily.
Price(s)
Free access.
Informations
Languages
Frequently asked questions
What are the main pieces of equipment required to practice the Via Ferrata of Cavaillon in the Luberon?
To safely enjoy the Via Ferrata of Cavaillon, you must have the following equipment: - Helmet: Protects against falling rocks or accidental impacts against the rock face. - Climbing harness: Essential for attaching yourself to the safety cable. - Lanyards with energy absorber and carabiners: Ensure safety in case of a fall. - Gloves (fingerless type): Protect hands from friction on the cables. - Hiking shoes: Provide good grip on rocky surfaces.
At what height is the Via Ferrata of Cavaillon located, and what is its difficulty level?
The Via Ferrata is located at approximately 150 meters above sea level on Colline Saint-Jacques. It offers two routes with different levels of difficulty: - Via Natura (Moderately Difficult - AD): Suitable for participants taller than 1.30m, ideal for a family-friendly introduction. - Via Souterrata (Very Difficult - TD): Reserved for participants over 1.50m, featuring technical sections and underground passages.
What safety precautions should be taken before starting the Via Ferrata of Cavaillon?
Before starting, make sure to follow these safety guidelines: - Assess your physical condition: The Via Ferrata requires good balance and endurance. - Check your equipment: It must meet safety standards and be in good condition. - Stay attached at all times: Always remain connected to the safety cable with at least one carabiner. - Be accompanied: Beginners should go with an experienced person or a guide. - Bring water and snacks: There are no supply points along the route. Important: Access is not recommended in case of rain or strong winds for safety reasons.
What are the different routes available on the Via Ferrata of Cavaillon, and how long do they take?
The Via Ferrata of Cavaillon offers two routes adapted to different experience levels: - Via Natura – "Discovery Route" (1.5 to 2 hours), designed for a first experience. Accessible to participants over 1.30m. - Via Souterrata – "Sporty Route" (about 2 hours), featuring aerial sections and underground crossings. Reserved for participants over 1.50m.
What are the opening hours and prices for accessing the Via Ferrata of Cavaillon in the Luberon?
Opening Hours: The Via Ferrata is open year-round, 24/7 (except in adverse weather conditions). Pricing: Free access for those with their own equipment. Equipment rental starts at €15 from specialized providers.