Via Ferrata Galera at Isola d'Elba

Introduction:

La Ferrata della Galera is an aided route that goes up Monte Galera (969 m) on the Island of Elba. The hike is beautifully landscaped and, although technically not particularly difficult, requires good training given the length and height difference.

Starting location:

The itinerary starts from Marciana on the northern area of the Island of Elba.

Directions for Google Maps available here.

Approach:

From Marciana you must reach the end of the Monte Capanna cable car. You can opt to go up the CAI paths 1 and 6 or in the summer season to use the cable car that leaves from Marciana. From there continue along the path towards the unsightly antennas. It remains just below the ridge slightly downhill on the north-west slope (Sentiero 00 segnavia bianco rossi). Once in the vicinity of the Monte Galera, go around it to the right until you find us in an aided canal (3h without the aid of the cable car - 45 'from the mountain station).

Via Ferrata:

There are 3 sections aided to reach La Galera.

The first section crosses a slab that is not difficult but exposed. The second section descends a stretch of ridge. The third section brings the granite slabs back up to us to reach the cross-free summit of Monte La Galera (3h 30 'from the parking lot).

Descent:

You can retrace the whole itinerary backwards (3h -6h 30 'total), or alternatively continue from La Galera on CAI 00 to La Tavola to the junction with CAI 10 which descends to the junction with CAI 3 just below Marciana (3h 30 '- 7h total).

Notes:

The aided route that goes up La Galera is perhaps excessive to call it a ferrata although a couple of steps are more than just a handrail. What makes the trip special is the surrounding environment. The wildest area of the Island of Elba is enclosed by rock, sea and a surprising nature that gives us this strenuous but rewarding trip.

Opportunities:

There are no other sections aided on the Island of Elba but one is surprised by the multitude of paths on the island. Definitely an ideal destination in mid-seasons to enjoy the mountainous part of this magnificent island.