Sentiero Attrezzato delle Vasche

Overview

The Sentiero Attrezzato delle Vasche is a spectacular route that winds through the narrow gorge of the Inferno stream near Valmadrera (Como). This rock-based itinerary alternates walks along ledges with brief first-grade climbing sections, all made secure by chains and steel cables, offering continuous views of the rushing waters and the smooth conglomerate walls. The route has a two-part structure: an initial, easier, tourist-friendly section, followed by a final stretch with increased difficulty, where some moves require a bit of physical strength, while still maintaining a generally moderate and accessible character.

Approach

The route begins from the hamlet of Ceppo, in Valmadrera. After parking your car along the road, briefly ascend the paved dirt road until you spot the trailhead, marked by white-red trail markers. Then descend toward the bed of the Inferno stream, which you follow upstream for about 15 minutes on a clear path until you reach the base of the first waterfall: here the actual equipped section begins.

Via Ferrata

From the first waterfall, the route develops by climbing up the watercourse, crossing the stream several times and skirting the characteristic natural pools (vasche) of erosion that give the route its name. The trail winds along ledges and boulders, with a pleasant, low-exposure rhythm. You then encounter a first short equipped traverse to the right, on rock that is often damp and slippery. After passing more pools, you approach a second, imposing waterfall, which is overcome by climbing a concrete staircase. Just beyond, on the right, you'll find an escape route leading toward San Tomaso.

From this point, the Sentiero Attrezzato delle Vasche gradually increases in commitment. The route continues on the left bank with a traverse followed by a short equipped rock face, constantly damp due to its proximity to the water. The rhythm becomes more uneven, with brief ups and downs. After another similar rock face, you reach the most physical passage of the entire route: a slightly overhanging bulge, passable thanks to three metal stirrups, which requires a minimum of arm strength. The route continues with a protected traverse, not difficult but exposed, and ends by climbing up some boulders until you exit the gorge and reach a large boulder known as "Taja Sass". The via ferrata takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete, for a total of 1 hour and 45 minutes from the start.

Descent

From Taja Sass, take the trail to the right that leads to San Tomaso and, from there, toward the villages. Two options are possible: descend from the Belvedere area and climb back up toward Ceppo (about 50 minutes), or follow the route that, branching left, leads to San Martino and then descends to the parking lot (about 1 hour).

Useful Notes

As with many canyon routes, it is essential to check the flow of the Inferno stream before setting out, as conditions can vary significantly. The difficulty is closely tied to the dampness of the rock, which can make some sections slippery. The first section, up to the escape route for San Tomaso, is suitable for a wide audience, including children. The second part is more athletic and features a couple of passages that require some strength to overcome certain bulges. The Sentiero Attrezzato delle Vasche can be combined with other hikes in the area, such as the Sentiero Attrezzato al Moregallo, the Ferrata al Canalone Belasa, or the Ferrata del 30° OSA al Corno Rat.