Have you ever heard of Hilly Gardaland? You surely have, if you are a mountaineer, hiker or a mountain climber. We all know Gardaland as the adrenalin centre on the Lake Garda in Italy. But some who prefer adrenaline rather go to the free 'Hilly Gardaland', which is located not far from the famous 'real' Gardaland. Ambient Lake Garda is simply wonderful, but still not enough known – perhaps due to its remoteness.
Secured climbing routes or via ferratas are modern-day trends among mountain lovers. The most common adventurers are young, full of strength, energy and courage - but there are also older ones. So what is the Hilly Gardaland all about? Before you enter the so-called via ferrata you have to equip yourself with proper mountain and technical equipment. Climbing helmet, harness, self-protective climbing gear, climbing gloves, good mountain boots and a backpack full of climbing equipment are the basics for anyone who wishes to safely move around the ground like this. At the beginning of each via ferrata the use of technical equipment for advancement is briefly explained and soon you are on the first steel cable. It is desirable not to visit the Hilly Gardaland without experience.
@Foto: Franc Kropec
The basic rule is to always be protected because via ferrata is an iron pathway, which means that the steel cable should run continuously from the beginning to the end. With attaching the karabiners to the rope, your adventure can begin. At the beginning there is usually a harder part that tests your ability to continue the path. If you beat it, you are ready to continue your journey with caution. Climbing gloves prevent the formation of blisters while holding onto the steel cables, but it is certainly desired to use the natural climbing holds such as rocks. Many adrenaline surprises await along the way, such as the hanging ladders, steel footbridges to walk on, vertical or overhanging wedges and the like. Secured climbing routes have different lengths, from half an hour to the whole day of climbing, so caution while choosing a destination is necessary. In the absence of experience, we recommend climbing the
via ferrata with a guide.
@Foto: Franc Kropec
There are some other secured climbing routes in the immediate vicinity of Lake Garda. This means that the lake view from those via ferratas is very inviting, especially in the summer heat.
- Via dell'Amicizia or the Path of Friendship also called a Hundred Year Old Via Ferrata or Via Ferrata of Endless Ladders is one of the more demanding via ferratas in the area, because you have to overcome a lot of difference in altitude. On the way to the Cima SAT top there are 8 ladders, some more, some less stable, but still just perfect for adrenaline lovers.
- Sentiero dei Contrabbandieri or Tracciolino is a via ferrata for those with calm nerves, who are not afraid of precipices. The path is protected only on the most difficult sections with a suspended ladder. Other segments are unprotected; the path is narrow and requires a considerable amount of concentration.
- Via Ferrata part Colodri is a short via ferrata above the village of Arco and is also suitable for beginners and families. From the top there is a great view of the entire northern part of Lake Garda, including Riva del Garda.
- Medley of four via ferratas: Sentiero Susatti, attrezato Sentiero delle Laste, Sentiero Sentiero Mario Foletti and Gallerie di guerra is also suitable for those with slightly less experience. The latter runs underground so the headlamp is required. Short, but interesting little via ferratas take us to the panoramic peaks of Cima Rocca and Cima Cappi.
.jpg)
@Foto: Franc Kropec
Hostel Benacus is a favourable choice for bed and breakfast for those with not that deep pockets. Smiling Antonio will always be at your service. With the
HI membership card, you will receive additional discounts. The Path of Friendship is reachable directly from the hostel, which is located in the old town of Riva del Garda. There is also a guarded parking lot. On the way back it is mandatory to swim in the Lake Garda and walk along the Riva del Garda. You can plan your own adventure to the Hilly Gardaland, you can go with a guide or you can book it through a
travel agency. Warranty: you will surely enjoy it!
.jpg)
.jpg)
