Ferrata della Balma an unforgettable vertical adventure

Where is the Ferrata della Balma and why should it be tried?

The Ferrata della Balma is located in the municipality of San Paolo Cervo, in the province of Biella, along the valley of the Cervo stream. It is a recent via ferrata, built on an abandoned rock quarry, now converted into a suggestive adventure spot. This transformation has given new life to a disused industrial site, turning it into an attraction for mountain lovers and sustainable tourism.  The ferrata is short, vertical, and athletic, but not excessively difficult. It takes place on compact and well-equipped walls, offering strong emotions and a unique view of the Cervo Valley.

Where does the Ferrata della Balma start?

The starting point is located near the former quarry of Balma, easily reachable from Biella by following the road that runs alongside the Cervo stream for about 10 kilometers. Upon reaching the locality of Balma, turn left crossing a bridge over the stream, then immediately to the right, where there is a small parking lot. To the left of the road, the rock wall with the climbing sectors and the via ferrata is already visible.  From the parking lot, in less than 5 minutes of walking, you reach the start of the route, located on the left side of the main wall.

What are the main characteristics of the Ferrata della Balma?

The Ferrata della Balma is a short but intense route, ideal for those who want to experience a vertical adventure without spending an entire day hiking. It develops in about 30 minutes of actual ascent, with a modest elevation gain but a very varied route, alternating vertical sections, traverses, and an exciting monkey bridge with three ropes.  The route is fully equipped with metal steps, steel cables, and solid anchors, making progression safe even in the most exposed sections.

How does the ascent of the Ferrata della Balma take place?

The itinerary begins immediately with a vertical wall, slightly inclined to the left, facilitated by numerous steps. At the end of the first wall, a short ramp is traversed, and another vertical section is faced, similar to the previous one but slightly more exposed.  Next is a horizontal traverse to the left, very panoramic, where the feet rest on solid metal steps. After the traverse, you ascend a second wall until the end of the first section of equipment.  From here, the second part of the ferrata is already visible, starting with a diagonal traverse to the right, to be walked with feet on a metal cable. The route then continues on a vertical wall with a short overhang: this is the most athletic passage of the ferrata, but the abundant steps make progression safe and fluid.  After passing the rocky belly, you turn left for a new horizontal traverse, leading to a monkey bridge of about 7 meters. Crossing it is a moment of pure adrenaline, but the bridge is stable and well secured.  After the bridge, a boulder is circumvented, a small equipped dihedral is ascended with steps, and the last section, aerial and panoramic, is faced. The wall becomes vertical again and ends with a grassy ramp, where the rope is anchored to a tree marking the end of the route.  Total time: 30-35 minutes from the start, for a short but intense experience.

How difficult is the Ferrata della Balma?

The technical level is moderate: the route is suitable for those with some experience who want to improve strength and safety on the wall. The most challenging section is the central overhang, which requires some arm strength, but is well assisted by the steps. No climbing experience is necessary, but it is important to use complete via ferrata equipment: helmet, harness, kit with a shock absorber, via ferrata gloves.  The route is ideal for half a day or to be combined with other ferratas in the Biella area on the same day.

How does the descent from the Ferrata della Balma take place?

At the end of the route, you can choose to:  * ascend in about 10 minutes to the Belvedere, a panoramic point overlooking the Biella valleys;  * or descend to the right along an asphalt road that comfortably leads back to the parking lot in about 30 minutes.  In total, the complete excursion takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, perfect for those with little time who do not want to miss out on adrenaline.

What is the best time to do the Ferrata della Balma?

Being at low altitude, the ferrata can be done all year round, except in case of rain or frost. In spring and autumn, it offers the best conditions, while in summer, the wall can be warm during the central hours, so it is advisable to start in the morning or late afternoon.

What to see around the Ferrata della Balma?

The area of San Paolo Cervo is rich in places to discover. Not far away is the suggestive village of Rosazza, with its neo-Gothic castle and mysterious Masonic symbols. About 30 minutes away, you can visit the Sanctuary of Oropa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or explore the crags of Oropa and Mucrone, perfect for those who love sport climbing.  For nature lovers, the Burcina Park in Pollone is a must-see, with its trails among rhododendrons and breathtaking views.

Where to sleep and what to eat near the Ferrata della Balma?

In the area, there are numerous B&Bs, refuges, and agritourisms ideal for those who wish to stay overnight:  * B&B La Balma Antica, in San Paolo Cervo, with stone rooms and genuine breakfasts;  * Refuge Savoia di Oropa, an excellent starting point for hikes and ferratas;  * Agriturismo La Burcina, with authentic Piedmontese cuisine;  * Hotel Augustus in Biella, for those who prefer a more comfortable solution in the city.  Typical dishes from the Biella area include polenta concia, alpine cheeses, braised Nebbiolo, and chestnut desserts.

What other ferratas can be combined with the Ferrata della Balma?

The Ferrata della Balma is perfect to combine with other routes in the same day. In the Biella valleys, you can find:  * the Ferrata del Limbo,  * the Ferrata di Rosazza,  * the Ferrata Nito Staich,  * the Ferrata Ciao Miki,  * and the Equipped Path of Infernone.  All these routes are reachable in 30-40 minutes by car and allow you to experience a complete day of adventure and nature in Biella.