Nax: Via ferrata Belvédère

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Overview

  • Location: Nax, Switzerland
  • Difficulty: K4 (low K4)
  • Starting point: 1000m
  • End point: 1210m, Nax: 1299m
  • Elevation Gain: ~220m 
  • Duration: ~1h30 (2h with return)
  • Key Features: 3 suspended bridges, smooth wall ascent, intermediate exit option, panoramic viewpoint
  • Equipment Required: Harness, via ferrata set (2 carabiners), helmet, optional short rope for resting

The via ferrata in Nax is definitely the one I have done the most times. It is rated K4, though on the lower end of that scale.

Access and Starting Point

If you already have your equipment, you can start directly from the bottom. One of the turns in the road leading up to Nax has a sign and a gravel road where you can park. From here, you're just below the village, and the via ferrata ascends the cliff in front of you. The starting point is at arount 1000m, and a few minutes walk from the road brings you to the panel marking the beginning.

If you need to rent equipment, you can do so in Nax and then park at the top of the cliff instead. From there, a steep path leads down to the starting point.

Route Description

The via ferrata climbs approximately 220 meters, reaching an altitude of 1210m at the exit point, while Nax itself sits at 1299m.

The route features three suspended bridges (one quite small), and most of the ascent follows a smooth rock face. There are no really overhanging sections, and the wall is slightly inclined, making it less physically demanding. However, it is quite exposed, meaning you’ll need a good head for heights.

After an easy start, the way quickly becomes vertical. One of the three cable-bridge has a bit of a difficult exit as it ends against the wall and you have to change carabiners and restart climbing. This is maybe the most difficult part of the via. After the bridges and some more vertical climbing you reach an interlude with easier terrain that leads to the second section, which also features vertical climbing.



After about an hour, there’s an intermediate exit. However, by this point, the most difficult sections are behind you, so I recommend continuing. After another 20 minutes, you’ll reach the end of the ferrata. Five minutes along the path leading into the village, you’ll arrive at an incredible viewpoint—likely the reason the via ferrata is called Belvédère.

Descent

If you parked at the top, the trail continues for another 10 minutes, leading you back to the parking area. If your car is at the bottom, shortly after the viewpoint, a trail branches off to the right and descends directly to the starting point.

Final Thoughts

The Nax via ferrata is a rewarding and accessible climb that doesn’t require exceptional upper-body strength but does demand confidence with exposure. It’s a well-equipped route, but you must bring the necessary gear: a harness, a via ferrata set with two carabiners, a helmet, and optionally, a short rope for resting if needed. If you’re looking for a scenic and exhilarating climb, this route is well worth it!

Location: Nax, Switzerland

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