Ferrata di Camoglieres

Overview

The Camoglieres Via Ferrata, located in the namesake hamlet of Macra in the province of Cuneo, is a route demanding exceptional physical effort. Its course is defined by abundant metal equipment-ladders and rungs-that dictates an athletic progression over predominantly vertical and overhanging terrain, with constant and pronounced exposure. This is an ideal route for those seeking a test of endurance and sustained strength, where pure climbing technique takes a back seat to the ability to manage fatigue and prolonged exposure.

Approach

The starting point is the hamlet of Camoglieres, reachable via the SP 422 from Cuneo towards Caraglio and Dronero. After passing Lottullo, a marked junction on the right indicates the direction for Camoglieres and the via ferrata. From the parking area, with the characteristic limestone bastion already clearly visible, continue on foot along the paved lane to the last house in the settlement. Here, on the right, a well-marked trail begins, indicated by signs and yellow blazes, leading to the start of the ferrata in about 15 minutes from the car park. The quick and direct approach hints at the demanding nature of the route ahead.

Via Ferrata

The itinerary unfolds in successive sections, typical of the "French style" common in the Cuneo area, with a mandatory route punctuated by metal rungs. The first wall attacks immediately with a series of vertical rungs, initially following a dihedral line that also offers natural holds on the right, before a traverse to the left. The progression continues straight up, interrupted by a diagonal traverse equipped with rungs, to tackle strenuous and partially overhanging sections. The limestone rock, compact and polished, offers few natural rests, imposing a continuous rhythm. Reaching the top of this long section, you find yourself near a first escape route on the left.

A short trail connects to the second wall. This one also features challenging, overhanging passages, ascending diagonally until it overcomes an exposed arete. After a few final vertical meters, you skirt and climb a rocky gendarme with a short bulging section, then finish with one last slabby wall. The pace is always sustained, with the exposure increasing progressively as you move away from the base.

The trail resumes, descending slightly into a small wooded area, leading to the start of the third section. This begins with about twenty meters of vertical and overhanging wall, followed by an athletic and strenuous diagonal ascending traverse. You then climb vertical sections in strong exposure to the base of a rocky roof, which is bypassed along an exciting and exposed arete. A short traverse concludes this section, leading onto a trail from which the suspension bridge can be seen in the distance. The development along ledges and aretes characterizes this part, offering open views of the valley.

The fourth section is the least demanding. After a few equipped rocky steps, you tackle a high vertical wall, free of overhangs, for about twenty meters before turning right. You climb a gendarme, cross a pulpit-like ledge, and downclimb on the opposite side. Reaching an escape route, a short trail leads to the long, swaying Tibetan bridge, which marks the end of the fourth section. This section offers a momentary physical reprieve, while still maintaining a panoramic character.

Beyond the bridge, a trail leads to the final wall. On this connecting section, there are two escape routes: one for returning and one to reach the summit while avoiding the last, difficult stretch of ferrata. This finale is demanding and exposed. From a short ledge, you climb a vertical wall, attacking an arete, then turn slightly right into a difficult traverse. You re-engage vertically in strong exposure, overcoming the last strenuous meters before the difficulties cease. A final stretch of equipped trail, now free of technical obstacles, leads to the summit cross. The climbing time from the start is about 2 hours and 15 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes from the car park), a time that confirms the athletic, non-stop nature of the entire route.

Descent

From the summit cross, a very well-marked trail with yellow blazes allows the return. It is important not to remove your harness, as the descent path includes a few short, still-equipped sections. In about 40 minutes you return to the car park, for a total hike time of about 3 hours and 15 minutes. The descent, though mostly on trail, retains a technical character and requires attention until the very end.

Useful Notes

The Camoglieres Via Ferrata is an athletic, tiring itinerary that should not be underestimated for its physical demands and continuous exposure. The climbing difficulties are mitigated by the abundant equipment of ladders and rungs, but the overall commitment remains high due to the length and continuity of the effort. Along the route, there are several escape routes for those who wish to interrupt the ascent. It is explicitly forbidden to descend the via ferrata, both for safety reasons and to avoid conflicts with climbers ascending.