Via Ferrata Pra Catinat

Introduction:

The Pra Catinat via ferrata has been designed for users who are not prepared from the mountaineering point of view and can also be followed by disabled users if accompanied; it is usable throughout the year because it is exposed to the south-east side at an altitude of 1600 meters above sea level.

Starting location:

The starting point of the itinerary is the Hotel Pra Catinat above the hamlet of Depot in the province of Turin. Once in Depot, turn right on the provincial road 172 in the direction of Agnelli, Pequerel and Puy.

Directions for Google Maps available here.

Approach:

It starts from the hotel "Pracatinat" along the path that leads to the ravine, to the left of the structure. At the bottom you will find the beginning of the ferrata next to a showcase (15 'from the parking lot).

Via Ferrata:

Attack a short rocky jump and then you proceed initially along a traverse to the right on grass. You proceed on a traverse between ups and downs without difficulties until you reach a wall where the traverse becomes exposed and, in certain parts you find both pegs and holds.

At the end of the traverse a section of a few meters of climbing is undertaken where a pair of brackets are useful for the feet. We then reach a rocky terrace and continue along another horizontal trait similar to the previous one. Finally we come to a fairly leaning vertical section bwhere we continue on a pleasant climb. At the end of this section we are on the summit slabau concluding the short ferrata (1h from the start - 1h 15 'total).

Descent:

Follow the obvious path and return to the hotel and then to the car park (20 'from the end of the via ferrata - 1h 40' total).

Notes:

We are talking about an easy via ferrata, suitable for beginners who want to try this type of trips. The ferrata extends for three quarters on traverses with a very low total height difference.

Along the entire route you can enjoy a splendid view of the Val Chisone over the villages of Villaretto, Roreto Chisone. On fine clear days, the Rocca di Cavour is also visible.

Opportunities:

Once the Pra Catinat via ferrata is over, if you want to definitely increase the degree of difficulty you can go to Ferrasta Ciardelli (20 'by car) or to Claviere for the local via ferratas: la Ferrata Rocca Clarì, the Military Ferrata and the Ferrata of the Batteria Bassa.