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Via Ferrata Getaway in the Dolomites

Climbing/Mountaineering in Italy with Dolomite Mountains

Highlights

  • Hike the tunnels and via ferratas constructed during World War I
  • Experience the rich Ladin culture with many traditions that make this region so unique
  • Enjoy the atmosphere of the mountain rifugios, the best in the Alps

Full Description

Short on time? Join our quick getaway climbing vie ferrate (“iron ways”) in the Dolomites! You’ll ascend a different via ferrata each day, explore the diverse culture and excellent cuisine of the Dolomites, and even spend a few nights in traditional mountain rifugios!

The breathtaking pinnacles of the Dolomites are well known to climbers and non-climbers all over the world. For non-climbers, the world famous vie ferrate of the Dolomites provide access to mountains and views usually reserved for climbers and mountaineers. Wire cables are fixed to the rock walls for safety, in addition to iron rods and steps. These incredible well-protected routes allow almost anyone to can safely ascend a mountainside.

The origin of the via ferrata came during the First World War, when the Italian and Austro-Hungarian armies fought against each other on the vertical walls of these wonderful mountains. In order to succeed, they had to fix these iron ladders and wire cables to the rock, often under enemy fire. Today, many of these “iron paths” have been converted to recreational use and can be tackled by anyone interested in going a step beyond hiking, towards the magical world of climbing and mountaineering. This activity is suitable for all curious hikers that want to know what lies above the trails.

Includes:

  • Includes accommodations and meals as per itinerary
  • UIAGM/IFMGA professional mountain guide
  • Via ferrata equipment
  • Local transportation

Excludes:

  • Airfare to/from the departure point
  • Gratuities to local guides

Day by Day Itinerary

Sample Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Dolomites-Arrive in Cortina d’Ampezzo on your own. Meet your guide for a trip briefing and orientation, and to check-out the ferrata equipment you will use for your exciting week in the Dolomites. Hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo

Day 2

Via Ferrata Averau-We commence with an easy to moderate ascent of the Via Ferrate Averau.
 This via ferrata is a good confidence builder for beginners, and is the historic training ground of generations of rock climbers. Your guide will be with you all the way to teach you the basics of traveling over the near vertical walls. The views of the Tofane group to the north are outstanding on this route; Cinque Torri (Five Towers) is just below the imposing bulk of Averau. B. Hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo

Day 3

Via Ferrata Col dei Bos-Hike to Via Ferrata Col dei Bos which begins above Col Gallina near the Falzarego pass.
 This via ferrata is not marked on maps or guide books, as it is one of the via ferrata that the Italian alpine military units still use for training. From the top of Col dei Bos the views of the surrounding mountains are unforgettable.
Overnight in a superb rifugio with private accommodations and great views of the Dolomites. B,D. Rifugio

Day 4

Via Ferrata Lipella-The ‘Lipella’ at the Tofana di Rozes is a via ferrata not to be missed, especially for the keen mountaineer.
 A splendid journey into the heart of the Dolomites and a trip into history, where the most tragic and memorable events of the First World War took place.
Climb the via ferrata up to the 3,225 meter (10,580') peak, hike down to the Passo Falzarego, and transfer to a rifugio for the night. B,D. Rifugio

Day 5

Via Ferrata Olivieri a Punta Anna-Ascend the Via Ferrata Olivieri a Punta Anna (2,731m/8,960'). The hike towards the via ferrata is on the panoramic Sentiero Attrezzato Astaldi. This area is of great geologic interest: it traverses along at the very bottom edge of the steep cliffs of Punta Anna, at the juncture where the steep cliffs give way to colorful slopes of softer rock. From the peak we descend a via ferrata to Rifugio Giussani (2,580m/8,465'), in the middle of the Tofane peaks, then back down to Rifugio Dibona. Transfer to Cortina d’Ampezzo. B. Hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo

Day 6

Breakfast and departure. B

About The Operator:

Dolomite Mountains

Headquarters:

Livinallongo del Col di Lana, Italy

Our Company

Dolomite Mountains is the only local company based in the Dolomites specializing in and providing unique experiences in adventure travel within one of the most beautiful natural settings on earth.

We create the ultimate custom adventure experiences within the Dolomite valleys, for the most demanding and exclusive clientele in search of stylish and low impact programs that provide excellent quality and cost.

For over 15 years we've been crafting Dolomite adventures, helping our travelers uncover the region's true spirit in style. We customize guided and self-guided active trips, luxury and gourmet adventures, and take you off the beaten path for truly authentic experiences, so you can experience and enjoy the real Dolomites.

Why the Dolomites?

With an incredible variety of diverse landscapes, lush valleys, breathtaking panoramas, and friendly inhabitants, the Dolomites are the "crown jewel" of the Alps. From soaring peaks to elegant spires to sheer rock faces, the Dolomites offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

This unique corner of the Alps features numerous valleys, ideal for a wide range of outdoor adventures. From the charming Italian atmosphere of the Ampezzo region to the green pastures of the Dolomiti di Sesto and Alta Badia to the towering peaks of the Val de Fassa and Val Gardena regions, this world-renowned mountain terrain offers something for every type of adventure traveler.

Hiking, biking, skiing, snowshoeing, rock climbing, or climbing a via ferrata - the Dolomites have an adventure for everyone!

At Your Service

The Dolomite Mountains staff works year round refining our services to ensure we offer the best trips possible in the Dolomites.

We combine this with accommodations that best reflect the style of the area, inspired regional cuisine, expert local guides with international certifications, and the best panoramas you can get in the Dolomites.

We're here so you can relax and enjoy the pleasures of wandering in the Dolomites, while we take care of the details of travel, luggage handling, and all other logistics.

About Our Founder
Agustina Lagos Marmol

Agustina is a multi-lingual world traveler, adventurer, climber, and devout hiker. She has traveled and lived in various countries, but her heart is shared between the Dolomites, where she currently lives, and Patagonia, where she grew up fly fishing and horseback riding on her family's estancia.

Before entering the world of travel, Agustina studied photography and fashion design in California. In 1994, she discovered the Dolomites while working for Butterfield & Robinson in Canada, which led her to settle down in this magical part of the world and start her own outdoor company: Dolomites Mountains.

"Being able to combine work, family, and fun together has always been my goal. The Dolomites feature some of the most stunning mountains in the world, and the mixture of beauty and service is superb: from romantic hotels to charming rifugios set on top of the mountains; Michelin star rated restaurants to authentic local cuisine; and outdoor activities to incredible spa treatments; the Dolomites offer the perfect blend of authenticity and luxury that is not to be missed."

-Agustina