Via Ferrata to the Christ the Redeemer of Maratea statue

If you love adventure and climbing peaks in a route halfway between trekking and climbing, you absolutely must try the Via Ferrata al Cristo Redentore in Maratea. Among cables, bridges, steps and artificial wall elements, you can climb one of the most fascinating stretches in Basilicata, a stone's throw from the centre of the village of Maratea.

During the excursion you will have a spectacular view to the south and west over one of the most beautiful stretches of the Italian coast, the Tyrrhenian Sea, and to the north and east over the peaks of the Calabro-Lucano Apennines. This scenic route runs on the WNW side of Mount San Biagio, which has an altitude of 623 metres.

In short, you will feel as if you are in a blue paradise, suspended between sky and sea. Are you with us?

What we will do

We will meet at 9 a.m. in Maratea . From here I will take you to the ferrata attack via the Borgo di Maratea, a walk of about 20 minutes. After the briefing, I will give you thenecessary equipment (helmet, harness and via ferrata kit). Once ready, we will venture onto a spectacular route: the Redentore ferrata.

In the initial part of the hike, we will tackle a series of rocky rises in a panoramic route that sweeps from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the peaks of the Calabro-Lucano Apennines. We will continue on the WNW side of Mount San Biagio, until we reach two Tibetan bridges.

I will guide you across, helping you if necessary to manage exposure and increase your tolerance of the emptiness beneath you to reach the summit, at the foot of Christ the Redeemer of Maratea. You will discover the beauty of a unique place, where sea and mountains meet: above the sky and below an expanse of crystal-clear sea.

For the descent and return to the village you have two options. The first, preferred in the warmer months, is to take the route represented by the CA signposted path. In this case, you will enter the hornbeam forest on the northern slope of Monte San Biagio. The second is the tourist mule track, where I will take you down the southern slope of the mountain.

The activity lasts four and a half hours.

Who it is aimed at

The activity is suitable for everyone, 15 years and older. Minors may participate with signed parental consent.

The via ferrata is practicable for beginners and experts as it is possible to circumvent the most difficult parts.

• The first section is suitable for experienced hikers (EEA) and for beginners as it is easy to negotiate (PD). It requires little strength, and some vertical sections must be overcome, but progression is facilitated by the artificial ledges or natural supports.
• The second section is more difficult (D) as it is an exposed route, with a few short overhangs, requiring basic climbing techniques and strength in the arms, but can be avoided by exiting to the left, on a good path heading north-east.

No specific skills are required, just being in good physical condition and not suffering from vertigo.

Other information

The excursion is available all year round at weekends and on weekdays during the summer, and is aimed at private groups of up to 6 participants.

Recommended clothing

• Sportswear suitable for the season and activity
• Hiking shoes

Don't forget to bring

• Gloves
• Sunglasses
• Water bottle