The via ferrata of the Grotte de Champ Retard in Coutarnoux is the only one of its kind in France, with 100% rock climbing inside the cave!
The Grotte de Champ Retard is a unique via ferrata course in Burgundy, halfway between climbing and hiking on the inside walls of a cave. Covered almost entirely by the vaulted ceiling of the quarry, the course is accessible in all weathers, all year round, and offers a cool, sporty activity in summer!
Less than a 30-minute drive from Avallon in the Morvan, and just 40 minutes from Auxerre, the via ferrata of the Grotte de Champ Retard offers 4 different routes, suitable for all levels:
- for children: in the cool of the cave, a small zip line;
- the green course for beginners: made up of a few beams and a zip line crossing the cave at the end (1 passage can be avoided if necessary);
- the blue course (medium difficulty): starts with a small zip line along a wall, followed by 2 avoidable obstacles (a skateboard and another small zip line), a rope bridge, another zip line, then a ladder to cross the large Nepalese bridge overhanging the base before reaching the long final zip line, outdoors;
- the red course (difficult): made up of beams and poles requiring balance, more technical climbing phases than on the blue course, 2 zip lines (a short one at the halfway point and a long one at the end), and a monkey bridge.
The via ferrata of the Grotte de Champ Retard is an old stone quarry, an atypical place 90% covered so you can enjoy the activity even in bad weather. With its continuous lifeline and instructors watching over you from the ground, you can enjoy your adventure on the route or routes of your choice in complete safety!
As a family with children from the age of 4, or with friends, you will have a superb time at the Grotte de Champ Retard, THE place to go via ferrata in Burgundy!
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Practical information
Access to the different via ferrata courses in the Grotte de Champ Retard (children's, green, blue and red), plus access to a 13-metre high self-belaying climbing wall.
Allow between 2 hours and 2.5 hours for the whole activity.
- Welcome at the base of the Grotte de Champ Retard
- Fitting of equipment (helmet and harness)
- Briefing on the activity, the concept of the continuous line, the use of the pulley for the zip lines and safety instructions
- Training on the introductory course to familiarise you with the equipment
- Depart for a 2 to 2.5-hour independent via ferrata experience on the route(s) of your choice, with the instructors on the ground to advise and help you if necessary
- Return of the equipment at the end of your course and end of the activity (you can refresh yourself on site thanks to the drinks and snacks area)
Minimum height: 3.6 ft / 110 cm with arms raised
All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Being in good physical condition is required to take part in this activity.
This activity is not accessible to pregnant people and disabled people.
- All the via ferrata equipment (helmet, harness, etc.)
- Instructor on the ground
- Sportswear
- Sport shoes
- Bottle of water
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