Fernau - D ⭐
Elevation: 200 m / Lenght: 320 m
Approach: 10 min / Duration: 1 hrs
Rating: 5/5
If I had to recommend just one via ferrata this year, it would definitely be Fernau, rated D. It's been a long time since I enjoyed climbing as much as I did here.
In fact, I wouldn't personally call it a D-grade route — barely even a C/D. Most of the time you're climbing solid C sections, and the more demanding parts are only a few meters long and easy to handle. So you might be wondering why I enjoyed this ferrata so much if it was actually quite easy?
In one word: variety.
The beginning is all about strength moves on a bare rock wall without any rungs. Then come traverses along sharp rock outcrops, a squeeze between tight boulders where I almost got stuck with my backpack (and I'm not even a big guy, haha), and suddenly you find yourself more than 100 meters above the ground, stepping into very exposed sections with stunning views all around.
As expected, the most exposed parts also hide the most challenging moments of the entire route. Every few dozen meters bring something new and different. The rock itself feels unlike anything I usually climb. I can't explain exactly why, but this ferrata drew me in within the first few meters, and the excitement stayed with me all the way to the end. It's been a long time since I enjoyed climbing this much — even though the route is technically quite straightforward.
To reach the summit of Egesengrat (2631 m), you'll need to hike a few additional vertical meters. The early wake-up paid off with a photo session featuring the local sheep — a real treat — plus beautiful views that are perfect in good weather. And if you're looking for more to do in the area, you can take the cable car farther up and then hike the final 150 vertical meters to Schaufelspitze (3332 m). Your wallet will be about 40 euros lighter for the ride, so make it count.
Circular route from the cable car station, via the ferrata to the summit of Egesengrat (2631 m).