Via ferrata Hochjoch vs. via ferrata Madrisella
Via ferrata Hochjoch (B/C)
The longest via ferrata in Vorarlberg with a rope length of 1,750m.
You will reach the start of the via ferrata after approx. 30 minutes - it is located slightly above the Schwarzsee in the Seetal valley. From now on, you will be on the via ferrata for around 3-4 hours, climbing 450m. The descent then takes place via the Hochalpila ridge (45-60 minutes), where you may also encounter ibex, which like to lie on the path in summer. A major highlight is definitely the 60-metre-long rope suspension bridge, which is located just before the summit cross and demands everything from you once again. If you don't dare, you have the option of bypassing the rope bridge while secured. Once you reach the summit cross, a breathtaking 360-degree panorama awaits you. There is also a 2nd variant (easier and shorter/difficulty level B). This leads secured over the Hochalpila ridge to the rope bridge and the summit cross. Return the same way. The starting point is the Hochalpila mountain station. The Hochjoch via ferrata is classified as difficulty level C. It is long and requires a certain level of fitness, but has no difficult climbing sections. However, the 60m long rope bridge is definitely a challenge, both physically and mentally.
TIP: If you've never done a via ferrata this long before or are alone, you can also take part in a via ferrata course with a mountain guide. You can find this under the mountain experiences here.
Via ferrata Madrisella (C/D)
Your starting point for this via ferrata is the Versettla cable car mountain station. From here, you first head back down into the Nova Valley, past Alpe Nova and on to Lake Serresse. From here, keep left and follow the blue and white cairns. After approx. 45-60 minutes, you will have reached the start. The via ferrata has a total rope length of 750m and you will climb 450m. After approx. 3 hours of pure climbing time, you will reach the Madrisella summit cross and have a gigantic mountain panorama before your eyes! The biggest challenge on this via ferrata is definitely the 120-metre-high rock face that you have to conquer. You should definitely be free from vertigo and have a very good level of fitness. You really do climb directly on the rock in places, which is great fun and an additional challenge.
The way back is via Versettla, where you automatically take another summit with you. You should plan another 1-1.5 hours for the way back. You come out again at the Versettla cable car station.
My conclusion
Both are a challenge and great fun! My personal favorite, however, is the Madrisella via ferrata. The 120m high rock face was great fun and a challenge for both the body and the mind. In general, there are some very cool climbing sequences here, which I personally missed a little on the Hochjoch via ferrata! However, I would only recommend this via ferrata if you already have some experience of via ferratas. Otherwise you'll run out of breath after the halfway point. The descent via the Versettla is also scenically simply another poem!
If you want a thrill, the Hochjoch via ferrata is the right choice - if you are looking for a sporting challenge, you should choose the Madrisella via ferrata. In the best case, just do both ;)
