Via Ferrata #2: Gornjak

 After our first via ferrata a few weeks ago, we were so excited to get out again, that we fast tracked our plans, getting out to our new climb several weeks ahead of our initial schedule. This time, we drove south east from Belgrade, through Pozarevac and Petrovac, into the Gornjak Canyon. The scenery and the thrill of this via ferrata were less than that of Mucanj, but this route, without any iron pegs or steps, only a cable, was more technical and felt more like true rock climbing. Other than a few sections, graded D, most of the climb was not too bad. It was great to have Rex out for this climb with us, as well!

Lauki in Kosutnjak

Lauki's favorite local forest: Kosutnjak.
We love it, too, of course.

Via Ferrata #1: Mucanj

 As this will be our last year in the Balkans, Ko and I decided to make it the "Year of the Via Ferrata".
As soon as he returned from S.F., we bought some climbing gear and, the very next day, we are on the road at 3:30 a.m. to reach Mucanj mountain for our first via ferrata ascent. We started at sunrise, to beat the heat, and reach the summit by 9:30. The scrambling, ridges, and vertical ascents were incredible. This is a hobby that we will really enjoy on weekend getaways this year and, lucky for us, there are plenty of established via ferratas across the Balkans. On the way home, we visited Gostilje waterfall, Sirogojno village, and Stopica Cave. Looking forward to the next adventure!