Via Ferrata Feliz Navidad
Via Ferrata Feliz Navidad is considered one of the most difficult via ferratas in Spain. It has a K6 difficulty rating and is right up there with some of the most challenging via ferratas in the country and especially on the Iberian peninsula. For a decade it has inspired and motivated via ferrata enthusiasts to test their abilities. Although only about 100m in length, it goes up a vertical and overhanging wall. It is physically challenging and psychologically intimidating if you're not used to this type of terrain. However, it is well worth doing if you are at this level because it is a great ferrata in a beautiful area and with great exposure.
The Four Distinct Sections of Via Ferrata Feliz Navidad
Via Ferrata Feliz Navidad can be broken down into four distinct sections. Overall, the ferrata is short and compact but challenging and exciting. It should only be attempted by experienced via ferrata enthusiasts with a high level of physical and psychological strength. If in doubt, hire a guide for this excursion.
Section One, Hand Pegs and Slight Overhangs
The first section begins with a slightly overhanging segment on small hand pegs. This section is about 30m long. It is vertical to slightly overhanging and quite sustained throughout. The hand pegs are not your typical via ferrata rungs. They are only large enough to accommodate one hand so plan your moves effectively from the ground before starting. It is difficult to match hands or switch hands on the pegs, so plan how you're going to clip to the cable before starting. At about 30m you reach a ledge system where you can finally rest. There is a bolted anchor here as well so if you want to bail off you can rappel back to the ground.
Section Two, The Rungs
The second section is the easiest. After finally finishing the first 30m of vertical/overhanging climbing, the difficulties ease off momentarily. From the anchor, traverse left along a thin ledge for about 6m. Then follow the large rungs upwards. This section lacks cable but you simply clip into the large rungs which are oriented vertically, instead of the usual horizontal orientation. Continue up this section, at times it is necessary to use the natural rock features to progress but these present little difficulty so it's pretty easy going relative to the other sections. Nearing the end of this section, the third distinct section of the ferrata comes into view, the pendulums.
Section Three, The Pendulums
The Pendulums are the characteristic indicators of Feliz Navidad and one of the most unique features on any via ferrata in the world. This is a short section, a traverse of about 6m. Technically, it is straightforward and simple, without any real complications. However, the difficulty is in controlling your mind. There is a lot of exposure here, a lot of air below your feet. Simply clip your lanyard to the large ring on the first pendulum and then traverse for a few meters until you can reach the next pendulum. Unclip from the first pendulum and clip the second pendulum. Continue this process across the three pendulums until you reach the next section of cable and clip safely into the cable. Pendulums done!
Section Four, The Overhangs
The final section of via ferrata Feliz Navidad is probably the most physically demanding. There is a pronounced overhang to pull through. It's not very long but it is quite overhung. Luckily, there are several closely spaced rungs so the difficulty isn't too high, although it is physically demanding. At this point you are almost at the top of the ferrata and as you go through the overhang there is about 100m of air below you. It's very exposed. But stay focused and continue climbing up the rungs and then it becomes vertical.
The best way to exit is going direct, following the line of the cable and using the large holds on the rock. There are a few hang pegs out left but it's easier to go straight up using the natural rock features. Pull over the top and pat yourself on the back, you just completed, arguably, the hardest via ferrata in Spain.
Guided Via Ferratas
There are several other via ferratas in close proximity to via ferrata Feliz Navidad, many within walking distance. A few of them are also quite difficult, with K5 or K6 ratings, however, there are also several easier via ferratas as well. See our blog for a summary of Via Ferrata Cagate Lorito (K6). For guided via ferrata excursions, contact us and we'll be happy to safely take you on any via ferrata and provide a wonderful and educational trip in the mountains.