The highest Via Ferrata in the Alps

The route begins with a short approach walk from the Mottaret gondola, where you can discover the first difficulties of the via ferrata. You'll then cross monkey bridges and zip lines to reach the most difficult part of the route, a 300-metre vertical. After this section, you can reach the summit of the Dent du Burgin, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps.

The descent is then made by abseiling, for a total route length of around 600 metres. It is recommended that you are in good physical condition and have previous experience of via ferrata before embarking on this route. You should also be properly equipped with a harness, helmet, gloves and climbing shoes.

Much easier but also very beautiful, the via ferrata at Lac de la Rosière is the perfect route for an introduction if you're a beginner, or to introduce your children (aged 9-10 and over) to this activity. Even if it takes 2 hours to complete, it is very accessible to children as it is no more than 40 metres high. Children will long remember crossing a 57-metre monkey bridge. Along the way, you'll overlook the turquoise waters of Lac de la Rosière. This via ferrata is also unique in that it can be climbed in half, making it ideal for younger climbers. There are even picnic tables where you can take a break and enjoy the lake with your family.

This trail is very popular in summer, so to make the most of it, it's best to do it early in the morning.

After this activity, you can go for a swim in the Cascades des Poux, by following the torrent for 30 minutes from the car park.

Advice before embarking on a via ferrata

Here are some important tips to follow before embarking on a via ferrata:

• Make sure you're in good physical condition: via ferratas can be physically demanding and require good stamina for the longer routes.

• Prepare yourself for the altitude: via ferratas are generally located at high altitude, so it's important to get used to the conditions at altitude before embarking on the climb.

• Be well equipped: It's important to have the right equipment for a via ferrata, including a harness, helmet, rope with extra karabiners, gloves and climbing shoes or hiking boots, depending on the difficulty. You should also bring a rucksack with a bottle of water and a snack.

• Use common sense and follow the safety instructions and level limits indicated for each via ferrata. If you feel tired or uncertain, it's best not to continue.

• Avoid doing a via ferrata alone: Via ferratas are safest done in a group, so consider going with someone or signing up for an organised trip with an experienced guide such as the Bureau des Guides de Méribel.

• Always check the weather conditions before setting off, and avoid setting off on a via ferrata in bad weather.

• If you are embarking on a via ferrata with your children, the recommended age is 8-12, depending on the difficulty. Always allow extra time and find out about the different escape routes.

For a family holiday, the Résidence Pierre & Vacances Premium Les Crets offers great value for money, with family-friendly flats and very quick access to the resort and all its activities.