San Salvatore Via Ferrata

This is a via ferrata route up the north-west facing cliffs. The route is about 250m or 820ft long. It can be done any time of year due to mild winters. Good weather may bring many people to the rock and the mountain in general. Since route is a fixed cable only a harness and shock-absorbing lanyards with carabiners are needed. These usually come as part of a via ferrata kit. However, they are not necessary as a couple of long daisy chains or quick-draws strung together will be more then adequate.

It is important to note that the via ferrata can only be ascended and never descended. Climbers may be coming from below and the routes is not designed for people to pass or go up and down. Once you reach the top, unclip from the cable and take the path down the mountain or continue up to the summit.

The approach from Lugano is best from the Lugano-Paradiso train/bus stop. From there, a short walk uphill to via Guidino will bring you to the trail head for both the hiking trail and via ferrata. The trail is marked by the classic Swiss red-white-red blaze. Follow until you reach the intersection with the via ferrata trail. This is clearly marked by a large sign with info/warnings about the via ferrata. Continue up this train until you reach the base of the cliff, where the hiking trail ends, and the fixed cable is visible. Climb on.

Fixed Cable (via ferrata)