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Via ferrata in shady gorge
In search of a new challenge and a special experience, we came across the via ferrata Rio Salagoni during our research. Since we are still at the very beginning of our climbing experience, we wanted a route that was not too difficult. The pictures on the Internet looked really great, so we decided to do this via Ferrata. This is a beautiful via ferrata through a washed-out gorge. Especially on hot summer days, it offers a welcome change from other via ferrata routes in the area.
Start and finish of via Ferrata Rio Salagoni
The via ferrata Rio Salagoni is located between Dro and Drena below Castel Drena. There are 2 parking lots on SP84, so parking is not a problem. You can also park directly at the top of Drena and then walk down the path to the entrance of the climb. We chose the first option and parked on the street.
Easy or hard? Our experience with the via ferrata
When we arrived at the entrance of the via ferrata, we first had to put on our via ferrata set. In the meantime, a few people came and we were happy to let them go ahead. After all, we didn’t want to hold anyone up, especially as a beginner you need a little more time. And having someone breathing down your neck all the time is no fun either.
The beginning of the climb has already demanded a lot from us, the holds and footholds are sometimes quite far apart. The walls are partly overhanging and you need some strength to pull yourself from handle to handle. For us, sore muscles were pre-programmed! The trail leads you further and further along the walls of the gorge until you reach the wide clearing of the gorge. There is the waterfall, from here the via Ferrata becomes a little easier. Afterwards, you will cross 2 rope bridges in the direction of the gorge exit.
If you feel like it, you can visit Drena Castle or have a beer at the kiosk in the castle parking lot. Otherwise, go downhill for a bit until you turn right into a small path that leads you back to the starting point.
The via ferrata Rio Salagoni is suitable for all levels of difficulty. The challenges of the via ferrata include rope bridges, rock walls, footholds and ladders. It should be noted that the via ferrata requires a certain level of physical fitness and participants should have some experience in via ferrata walking.
In our opinion, the climb is only conditionally suitable for children, as the distance between the step and the safety rope is often far apart and therefore a certain height is necessary.
As a rule, the via ferrata Rio Salagoni is open all year round, but may be temporarily closed due to weather conditions. Especially in the hot summer months, the Rio Salagoni offers a welcome cooling.
Via ferrata Rio Salagoni – impressions
Maybe the pictures will make you want to do this via Ferrata even more!
FAQ about the via ferrata Rio Salagoni
HOW MUCH IS THE RIO SALAGONI?
This is good news: the via ferrata costs nothing. Just like the Cima Capi, the Collodri or other via ferratas on Lake Garda, the Rio Salagoni is free of charge.
IS THE RIO SALAGONI VIA FERRATA SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN?
In our opinion, the via ferrata is only conditionally suitable for children. Some kicks and grips are quite far apart. So a certain body size is necessary.
HOW FAR IS RIO SALAGONI FROM LAKE GARDA?
The via ferrata is located below Castel Drena. The distance to Lake Garda (Torbole) is about 17 km.
WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO PARK?
On the road (SP84) on the way to the Castel there are large parking lots on the left and right. Alternatively, you can drive to Castel Drena and park there.
ARE THERE ANY REFRESHMENT STOPS ALONG THE WAY?
At Castel Drena there is a “kiosk”, there you can eat and drink a little something. Otherwise, there are a few restaurants in Drena. There is no place to stop at the parking lot on SP 84 or on the trail through the gorge.
WHAT EQUIPMENT IS NEEDED FOR THE VIA FERRATA?
For safety reasons, a via ferrata set (helmet, climbing harness) is recommended in any case. In addition, sturdy shoes (hiking boots, or at least sturdy sneakers) should be worn. Furthermore, via ferrata gloves are useful.