Via Ferrata in Val di Susa: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Running from east to west in between the the Graian Alps in the north and the Cottian Alps in the south, Val di Susa is one of the longest valleys in all of Italy and as a result, boasts plenty of incredible via ferrata options from which to choose.

Among the most popular via ferrata options in the valley is the Orrido di Foresto, which takes climbers up along the walls of a narrow gorge in the valley. The highlights of the climb include passing by various waterfalls and natural pools.

Another popular option is the Sacra di San Michele, near Sant Ambrogio di Torino. This route is technically very easy but quite long. The route leads from the valley floor up to Mount Pirchiriano (962 meters/3,156 feet). The views from the top are breathtaking, however, and well-worth the 3 hours it takes to ascend.

Stunning scenery

Composed of rugged mountain slopes, verdant meadows and the azure-blue waters of the Dora Riparia river, the Val di Susa is incredibly beautiful. One of the best ways to take in as much of the valley as you can is to climb up a via ferrata to get a bird’s eye views. Excellent views of the medieval architecture of nearby towns is an added bonus.

Come for the culture

Unfortunately, you can’t spend every moment of your holiday out on the ‘iron path’, so either before or after you climb, take some time to explore some other aspects of the Val di Susa. Saint Michael's Abbey, up in the mountains at the top of Pirchiriano Mountain, is one of the top attractions in the region. It is also possible to visit the Castle of Bruzolo and visit one of the many wineries that dot the valley floor.

Everyone can do it

One of the many perks of climbing via ferrata is its accessibility. All the necessary skills can be taught the day of and many via ferrata rotues are appropriate for children as young as 10. For those who want the rock climbing experience and donl;t have the technical skills, via ferrata is the perfect alternative and Val di Susa is a great place to try it out.

During the climbing season, average daily temperatures in Val di Susa hover around 20 ºC (68 ºF) and decrease as one gains altitude. Summer is quite a wet time of year as well with an average of 50 to 80 millimeters (2 to 3.1 inches) of rain falling each month.

Any trip to Val di Susa will begin with a flight into Turin Airport (TRN). From here, it is possible to rent a car and drive to your final destination or take a bus.

Italian

+39

Euro

June to October