Overview
Grade: C/D
Total time: 2 hrs
Climbing time: 2 hrs
Climbing the 'Speleoferata - via ferrata v jeskyni' (grade C/D) is a truly unique and subterranean adventure. Unlike traditional mountain via ferratas, this route plunges you deep underground into a fascinating cave system. The cool, damp air immediately sets a different tone, and the darkness, illuminated only by your headlamp, creates an intimate and somewhat otherworldly atmosphere.
The C/D grading indicates a physically demanding experience. You'll navigate challenging sections featuring vertical climbs, exposed traverses, and sometimes slippery rock surfaces due to the constant moisture. Ladders, staples, and fixed ropes are your aids as you ascend and descend through narrow passages and larger caverns. This requires good upper body strength, agility, and a strong head for heights, even within the confines of a cave.
What makes Speleoferata exceptional are the geological formations. Your headlamp will reveal stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones, often glimmering with moisture. The acoustics of the cave are unique, amplifying the sounds of dripping water and your own movements. It's a blend of speleology and climbing, offering a profound sense of exploration and a thrilling challenge.
While potentially inducing a sense of claustrophobia for some, the overall experience is incredibly rewarding and unforgettable, making it a must-do for adventurers seeking something truly different.