Burrone Giovanelli via ferrata

Adventurous & family-friendly: through the gorge near Mezzocorona

The Burrone Giovanelli is one of the oldest and most exciting via ferratas in Northern Italy. The route through the wild gorge west of Mezzocorona was first opened in 1906 – initiated by the then medical officer, Tullio Giovanelli. Today, the via ferrata offers a fascinating experience through narrow rock passages, airy ladders, and past an impressive waterfall – perfect for beginners, families, and anyone looking for a moderately difficult yet varied via ferrata adventure.

Thanks to the deep gorge, the tour remains pleasantly cool even in summer – ideal for warm days.

What sets this via ferrata apart

The route runs through a shady gorge with several ladders, rope sections, and easy climbing sections. Highlights include the three long ladders right at the beginning, the narrow rocky path with stream crossings, and the idyllic waterfall, which invites you to take a break.

The via ferrata is technically moderately difficult (max. B/C), well secured, but slippery in places. Even children can join in with appropriate equipment and supervision. A particularly nice feature is the option to return to Mezzocorona via Monte at the end by cable car, suspension bridge, and skywalk – a real highlight for families!

With approximately 440 meters of climbing spread over a distance of approximately 8,3 km, the trail offers a good mix of climbing and hiking sections. The total walking time is approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes. The south-facing aspect ensures good light conditions, but caution is advised on wet rock – the narrow gorge can become very slippery.

Approach and Descent

The approach is a few minutes through the forest from the parking lot at Laghetto dell’Ischia (picnic area). At a fork in the path, keep left and after a short while you’ll reach the stream – the entrance to the gorge is on the opposite side.

After the via ferrata, a gravel path leads out of the gorge. From there, you have two options:

• Direct descent to the parking lot via a steep track (approx. 1 hour)
• A more scenic descent: Ascent to Baita dei Manzi and further to Monte – with a suspension bridge, skywalk, and subsequent cable car ride back to Mezzocorona (the return journey from the valley station to the parking lot is a bit long – you can arrange a second car or a ride share if you wish).

Arrival and Parking

Take the A22 Brenner motorway to the San Michele/Mezzocorona exit. In Mezzocorona, drive towards Mezzolombardo and, just before the bridge, turn right onto a small road that leads through the vineyards directly to the parking lot at Laghetto dell’Ischia (picnic area).

Mezzocorona can be reached by public transport by train or bus.

Tour information at a glance

• Difficulty level: B/C (mostly A–B, short B/C section)
• Climbing distance: approx. 440 meters in elevation gain
• Total elevation gain: approx. 730 meters in elevation gain
• Climbing time: approx. 1 hour 30 seconds
• Total time (including approach and descent): approx. 4 hours 45 seconds
• Protection: good (steel ropes, clamps, ladders)
• Facing: South
• Approach time: approx. 15 minutes
• Descent time: approx. 1 hour (more for the Monte variant)
• Recommended season: March to May and September to November
• Equipment: complete via ferrata gear and helmet; a safety rope is recommended for children

Guided via ferrata tours

For those who prefer to experience the Burrone Giovanelli via ferrata with expert guidance, guided via ferrata tours are offered regularly. Experienced mountain guides will show you the most beautiful spots, explain the technique, and ensure greater safety – ideal for beginners or anyone who wants to explore the route in a relaxed manner.

You can find the overview of the Burrone Giovanelli via ferrata in detail here

Note:

Do not use the trail when it’s wet or after rain! Some sections run directly into the streambed – it can be slippery or even dangerous. Careful planning (including the return route) is especially important with children – although the trail is easy, the entire tour can be physically demanding.