Jam-packed with dramatic scenery and watersports galore, Cornwall is a county-wide playground for the young and young at heart.
Leading the charge down the iron path, Cornwall’s own Via Ferrata is a shining light for adventurers, offering eager visitors the chance to soar through a series of fun-filled activities. Their most recent offering? An exhilarating Zip Wire Safari we were lucky enough to try out first-hand.
About Via Ferrata
Nestled between Helston, Falmouth, and Penryn, Via Ferrata is a celebration of all things adventure, from zip wires and climbing to watersports and archery. The best part? As a Community Interest Company, all profits from the activities support disadvantaged children and young people.
Unlike most zip wires, the Zip Wire Safari isn’t just a single adrenaline-inducing zip – it's a complete circuit with three heart-pumping lines that take you around one of Via Ferrata’s historic quarries. After an instructor has walked (or rather flown) you through the training course, you and a friend will have free reign over the top-tier course as you drink in the views from a whole new angle.
A Zip Wire Safari with Via Ferrata
Upon arrival, we were greeted by an array of friendly, fully qualified instructors who made sure we were equipped with the knowledge and gear necessary for a safe and exhilarating flight over the quarry, and it wasn’t long before our feet longed to be swept off the ground.
Taking a moment to gather our courage, it was a small step to boldly go where no one had gone before (quite literally, as we were the first to use this impressive course). The inaugural line served as a gentle introduction though, with a slow glide and a wonderfully large landing zone.
With the first line under our carabiner-secured belts, it was onto the second and fastest wire. Short and straight to the point, this line is a thrill-seeker's dream to be sure, and the perfect preface to the final zipline.
Not quite as rapid as the previous one, we darted towards the cliff and its wooden landing zone, a surge of pure joy sparking as we flew above the quarry. The best part of this high-flying course? You can ride to your heart’s content during your hour, giving plenty of time to rocket round the safari – you can even swap lines to enjoy a slightly different adventure.
Final thoughts
The verdict of our high-flying adventure? This fun-filled course is a great way to spend a day out in Cornwall, especially for families. Oh yes, children between the ages of 10 and 14 are welcome to give the Zip Wire Safari a go (when accompanied by an adult), while older children can enjoy the course on their own – parents can watch from the comfort of the viewing platform or the perfectly placed café where coffees and cakes await.
Fancy taking on the fabulous new Zip Wire Safari? Enjoy an adventure-packed stay in Cornwall as you explore the lofty heights of Via Ferrata.
