Via Ferrata Rocca Candelera

Introduction:

The new Ferrata di Rocca Candelera extends into a rocky spur in the Lanzo Valleys. This prominence rises above the forest steeply over the village of Piazzette. The environment is wild, vertical with a suspension bridge and some overhanging sections.

Starting location:

The starting point of the itinerary is the town of Usseggio in the province of Turin. Park just before the village near a quarry.

Directions for Google Maps available here.

Approach:

From the quarry, follow a path to the left that runs along dry-stone walls. The direction to follow is a big gully we must go towards that point. Stay on the right of the stream, while the descent path with red trail markers crosses the stream. It can be glimpsed as you go up a series of cairns ignoring traces that lead to the stream. Continue along the maximum slope line and in 60 meters you reach the sign for the start of the Ferrata di Rocca Candelera (40' from the parking lot).

Via Ferrata:

The first section of the via ferrata begins by climbing some rocks with grass. These first steps are not difficult and are easily climbed. You then come to a more exposed central section, vertical with different equipment but also overhanging sections that require strength of arms in the progression. After this stretch we reach a bridge of monkeys that takes us to the last section of the ferrata, vertical and exposed. Attention in this part to the sections in which the cable intertwines the steps in the progression. The via ferrata is very well aided with plenty of foot brackets and despite the difference in height it never gets too difficult.

Descent:

From the peak, turn right along a ridge path to a sign indicating the descent path. Return on a steep path with traverse sections on slippery grass. Follow the rare red marks on the trees. As you go down the path becomes easier and takes you back to the quarry (1h from the end of the ferrata - 4h 30' total).

Notes:

The Rocca Candelera ferrata, like many ferratas in Piedmont, uses metal brackets and equipment in abundance. This greatly reduces the degree of difficulty of the route, making it passable even for hikers not particularly experienced in climbing techniques. Attention should be paid to some overhanging sections.

For more info on the via ferrata, here the flyer of the Municipality of Usseglio.

Opportunities:

The Ferrata della Rocca Candelera is the first ferrata in the Lanzo Valleys. To combine another via ferrata on the same day, it is necessary to leave early, given the length of this via ferrata and opt for one of the nearest via ferratas, however, about an hour's drive: the Ferrata di Pont Canavese, the Rocca Bianca Ferrata or the Ferrata Carlo Giorda.