Via Ferrata
The Aravis area also has three fabulous Via Ferrata, in Le Grand Bornand, La Clusaz and Thones and there are many more in the Haute Savoie. Literally translated as Way of Iron these are alpine routes fitted out with cables, hand rails, rungs and foot bridges. With vertical ascents of over 750 metres you can experience exposed climbs even if you're new to the sport. You clip on at all times with a special shock-absorbing safety device on your harness.
Via Ferrata equipment hire - Helmet, harness and "cows tails" is 16€ per day.
If you've never done this kind of thing before we strongly recommend you go with a qualified mountain guide. Prices per person from:
Via Yves Pollet Villard - excellent for beginners - 50€
Via La Roche a l'Agathe - very physical with overhanging sections - 55€
Via La Tour du Jalouvre - VERY HIGH - 80€
Rock Climbing
There's rock climbing suitable for beginners upwards, and courses run by the local Bureau de Guides. For experienced rock climbers there are hundreds of routes of all grades, bolted or not.
We work closely with David and Fred who are local "Guides de Haute Montagne" to offer you climbing courses and guiding for all levels, including childrens courses.
This is also a good base for exploring further afield (e.g. Chamonix 1 hour's drive). Gear can be hired locally. Take a look at the Escalade 74 web site which details most of the climbs in the Haute Savoie - as you will see there's more than enough for anyone. The site is only in French but if you follow links to "Falaises" (French for cliff/crag) you should be OK.
Climbing lessons for beginners and improvers cost 36.50€ for a half day or you can opt for a course 2x half day and 2x full day lessons for 260€ (2006 prices)
Experienced climbers can obviously do their own thing or can opt for a half days guiding to discover the routes for 80€.