The iconic transparent capsules of Skylodge Adventure Suites don't have a traditional driveway. Your arrival is earned through a choice of two exhilarating pathways that are adventures in themselves. Understanding these routes is key to preparing for and fully enjoying your Skylodge experience.
Option 1: The Via Ferrata Climb
For many, the Via Ferrata (Italian for "Iron Path") is the definitive way to arrive. It's the safest way for anyone without technical climbing experience to scale a 300-meter rock face.
What Exactly is a Via Ferrata?
A Via Ferrata is a protected climbing route found on a mountain face. A steel cable runs the entire length of the route, and climbers use a special lanyard system with two carabiners to securely attach themselves to this "lifeline." The path incorporates iron rungs, ladders, and bridges to assist you up otherwise impossible sections. Originally built in the Italian Dolomites for World War I troops, these routes now provide safe access to spectacular terrain for adventurers.
Safety and Equipment
Your safety is managed through professional CE-certified equipment and trained guides. You will be outfitted with:
- A full-body harness
- A helmet
- Gloves
- A Via Ferrata lanyard: This is a special shock-absorbing system with two locking carabiners designed specifically for this activity.
You are permanently secured to the steel cable. The system allows you to easily clip and unclip your carabiners as you move past anchor points on the route. All guides are mountain-trained professionals certified in vertical rope rescue and first aid.
Who Can Climb?
Anyone in good health and good physical condition can participate. The minimum age to climb is 8 years old, and all climbers must always be accompanied by a guide. The team reserves the right to assess a guest's suitability for the activity.
Option 2: The Zipline Access Hike
If scaling a cliff isn't for you, the alternative is a challenging 40-minute hike to the first of several ziplines. This path leads you to the launch points for an exciting zipline descent that concludes at the Skylodge capsules.
What is the Zipline Experience Like?
The ziplines consist of a series of cables mounted on an incline. You are harnessed to a pulley system and glide from one platform to the next, propelled by gravity. The lines are engineered so that you naturally lose speed as you approach the end, requiring no manual braking system from you. The paths between some zipline platforms are equipped with a Via Ferrata system for safe traversal.
Via Ferrata & Zipline Combo
Many overnight packages combine both activities, allowing you to ascend 400 meters via the Via Ferrata and then descend using a thrilling series of six ziplines ranging from 150 to 700 meters long. This combo offers the most complete mountain experience.
What to Wear and Bring
Your comfort and safety during the journey depend on being prepared.
- Wear: Comfortable, athletic clothing. Pants are strongly recommended over shorts. Wear hiking shoes or running shoes—no sandals.
- Bring: Layer with a thermal jacket underneath a down jacket for colder months (June-August). Bring a small backpack to carry extra layers, at least 1 liter of water, and personal hygiene items like a toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Pro Tip: Bring an empty water bottle. You can refill it with purified water at the base camp at the start and end of your activity.
This journey is designed to be challenging yet accessible, creating a profound sense of accomplishment before you even step foot into your capsule. For details on what awaits you at the top, read our guide to the Skylodge experience itself.
To learn more about the lodge's unique features and overall offering, explore our complete overview of the Skylodge Adventure Suites.
Photo courtesy of Skylodge Adventure Suites.
