Lombardy, the largest region in northern Italy, is a popular destination for via ferrata enthusiasts. The terrain ranges from high alpine peaks and glaciers to gentle hills and lush forests. There are many equipped trails, for example, that climb mountains like Resegone, Medale, and Corni di Canzo all around the shores of Lake Lecco and Lake Como. In this area, there are some via ferrata routes with metal cables that are quite challenging despite the low altitude.
Via ferrata in Lombardy are not only an opportunity to test your physical and technical skills but also a chance to immerse yourself in breathtaking views and enjoy the untouched nature. Among the most well-known and appreciated by hikers is the Gamma 1 via ferrata, located on Pizzo d’Erna, which offers a spectacular view of Lake Lecco and the surrounding mountains.
Another fascinating route is the Monte Due Mani Ferrata, which, although less known, offers an exciting path among rocky ridges and exposed sections, ideal for those seeking an adrenaline adventure. For those wanting a more relaxed experience, the Piani d’Erna Ferrata is perfect, with a less demanding route but still rich in natural beauty. In short, Lombardy, with its variety of via ferrata, is an ideal destination for every type of hiker, from beginners to experts, offering a perfect mix of challenge and scenic beauty.
Along the Alpine ridge, there are the Grigne and Valtellina. Towards Bergamo, there are several via ferrata in the Prealps and the Orobie Alps. The province of Brescia also offers enthusiasts exciting via ferrata routes, with views of Lake Gardathat reach up to Adamello.
In general, via ferrata in Lombardy feature both technical climbs along sheer cliffs and easy walking routes with stunning panoramas. So if you are a fan of climbing and via ferrata, you really have plenty of choices!
The best via ferrata in Lombardy include the routes at Aprica,those at Piani d’Erna, and those on Monte Guglielmo. The via ferrata starting from Aprica are considered some of the most beautiful routes in Italy, with breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Those at Piani d’Erna are certainly more demanding in terms of duration but reward you with a wonderful panorama of the Prealps. If you are less experienced, there is the Monte Guglielmo Via Ferrata, which features some easier sections alongside steeper climbs. Below, we at
Meeters present to you a detailed look at three via ferrata itineraries … the choice is yours!Cuore alla Croce del Palabione Via Ferrata, Aprica
Among the most beautiful and renowned via ferrata is definitely the Cuore alla Croce del Palabione.
Although it does not present particular technical difficulties for experts, it is important not to underestimate this route because it develops along a ridge and is therefore exposed. Additionally, the grassy ridge is not always very stable, so great care must be taken. The route begins with a walk through the woods, which quickly turns into a more challenging approach. Necessary equipment includes a helmet, harness, and via ferrata set, not forgetting a pair of sturdy gloves to protect your hands during the climb. As you approach the rock face, adrenaline starts to rise, fueled by the breathtaking view opening up towards the valley floor. The first part of the via ferrata features short vertical sections interspersed with natural ledges, offering an exciting combination of climbing and hiking. The route continues with more exposed and spectacular passages, where every step must be carefully calculated to maintain balance. Despite the difficulties, the satisfaction of reaching the Croce del Palabione rewards every effort, offering a panoramic view that embraces the surrounding mountains and leaves you breathless.
Start the route with a walk through the woods, which quickly turns into a more challenging approach. The necessary equipment includes a helmet, harness, and via ferrata set, not forgetting a pair of sturdy gloves to protect your hands during the climb. As you get closer to the rock face, adrenaline begins to rise, fueled by the breathtaking view opening up towards the valley floor.
The first part of the via ferrata features short vertical sections interspersed with natural ledges, offering an exciting combination of climbing and hiking. The route continues with more exposed and spectacular passages, where every step must be carefully calculated to maintain balance. Despite the difficulties, the satisfaction of reaching the Palabione Cross rewards every effort, offering a panoramic view that embraces the surrounding mountains and leaves you breathless.
that you will have to climb. The natural rock holds provide assistance in climbing, mostly diagonally. The most difficult section you will face is the initial one, after which a few other small jumps separate you from the
summit cross.
The descent path is steep but equipped, not difficult. Alternatively, you can opt for the cable car descent. The via ferrata lasts a short 40 minutes
with an elevation gain of 252 meters.
The approach route, instead, starts from Aprica in the province of Sondrio
and lasts about 1 hour and 40 minutes with a total elevation gain of 666 meters. Gamma 1 Via Ferrata, Piani d’Erna The Gamma 1,
recently reopened,
is one of the most frequented via ferrata routes in Lombardy. The start of the route features a short chimney you can climb using the chain for the first few meters. It is not technically difficult but physically demanding due to the
large number of ladders in long sections at the beginning and end of the route. The exposure on the Gamma 1 via ferrata is quite high and the route features numerous natural and artificial holds. The first section, about halfway through, allows you to take an escape route to reach the Stoppani refuge. If you decide to continue, you will encounter a series of rocks until you reach a wall with greater difficulty because it has fewer holds and an overhang to climb. Here you will find the Monkey Bridge suspended about 8 meters
with 2 ropes. Beyond the bridge, the ridge can be followed along a fairly comfortable metal walkway. A few more short ladders and the cross of Pizzo d’Erna is there, at 1,375 meters altitude. For the descent, follow a path leading to Piani d’Erna. The Gamma 1 via ferrata lasts about 3 hours with 2 ropes. Beyond the bridge, the ridge can be followed along a fairly comfortable metal walkway. A few more short ladders and the cross of Pizzo d’Erna is there, at 1,375 meters altitude. For the descent, follow a path leading to the Piani d’Erna.
The route starts from the cable car to Piani d’Erna in the town of Barzio in the province of Lecco. The approach is short, about 25 minutes, with a total elevation gain of 700 meters. Corna delle Capre Via Ferrata, Monte Guglielmo. This via ferrata
climbs along the walls of Monte Guglielmo
in the province of Brescia. It is a vertical route where you can climb for long stretches. After an initial section of easy rocks, there is a good vertical stretch equipped with metal rungs.
This is followed by a very beautiful passage on smooth rock. The most challenging part is this initial section, but fortunately the many rungs present help the ascent without major difficulties. After passing rocky jumps with lush vegetation, you reach a connecting section with a cable that serves as a handrail. The last meters are characterized by fairly easy steps. At the summit, you can enjoy the view of the town of Zone from which the route starts. The descent is equipped and features
After passing rocky ledges with lush vegetation, you reach a connecting section with a cable that serves as a handrail. The last few meters feature fairly easy steps. At the summit, you can enjoy the view of the town of Zone from which the route starts.
The Corna delle Capre via ferrata lasts about 1 hour and has an elevation gain of 280 meters. The entire itinerary, including the approach, lasts about 2 and a half hours with a total elevation gain of 400 meters.
Via ferrata in Lombardy represent
an outdoor activity suitable for both experienced climbers and beginners. Whether you are looking for an easy via ferrata or a more challenging experience, Lombardy has something suitable for all skill levels. From short via ferrata with easy approach routes to longer via ferrata with difficult technical sections, in Lombardy you can find the perfect route for you. Suitable for both experienced climbers and beginners. Whether you’re looking for an easy via ferrata or a more challenging experience, in Lombardy there is something suitable for all skill levels.
From short via ferratas with easy approach routes to longer ones with difficult technical sections, in Lombardy you can find the perfect route for you.