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Via Ferrata in the Dolomites

The Dolomites are far from your typical climbing destination. With their iconic spires, jagged needles, expansive ledges, towering plateaus, and storied crags, they exude a character as unique as their history. These peaks, which are steeped in cultural heritage, earned a UNESCO World Heritage designation in 2009. Nestled within the Southern Limestone Alps, this legendary region caters to every climbing discipline: traditional, sport, and the thrilling via ferrata. Perfect for both day trippers and those wanting to take their time immersing themselves into the Dolomites’ spectacular peaks, you can’t go wrong with this location!

Adventure highlights

  • Historical & cultural significance
    Many of the Dolomites’ via ferrata routes were originally built during WWI—climbing here connects you to a dramatic chapter of history
  • Spectacular views
    Catch breathtaking glimpses of neighboring peaks and summits, lush valleys and quaint huts
  • Choose the duration
    Climb 1 to 5 days and enjoy a challenging and beautiful range of steep limestone peaks south of the Austrian-Italian border

Available itineraries

Full-Day of Via Ferrata in the Dolomites

Spend the day climbing Punta Anna via ferrata or let your guide surprise you with something perfectly suited for your skill set. If you’re up for the challenge of a steep climb, then Punta Anna is the perfect option for you. Feel the excitement as you traverse along sheer mountain faces and tackle a near-vertical climb along the east face. This ferrata can easily be combined with several others that are nearby, allowing you to turn one adventure into several. Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views along the way and have an unforgettable climb with your IFMGA guide.

This private tour is organized on request.

Full-Day on Gianni Costantini Via Ferrata

This is a long and fairly difficult Ferrata – one of the biggest and best in the range, taking over 9 hours to climb! Climb over 1500 meters in vertical altitude and summit Cima Cresta delle Masenade. To finish the route, traverse left along the top of the ridgeline down to the low point known as Forcella delle Masenade. Continue climbing back up to the summit of Moiazza sud. Enjoy great views of Civetta and the towers at the south end of the Civetta Massif. Let your expert guide lead you through the challenging parts and enjoy the success as you conquer two phenomenal summits!

This private tour is organized on request.

5-Day Via Ferrata in the Dolomites

Experience the thrill of the Dolomites' iconic via ferrata on this five-day adventure! Ascend historic “iron paths” built during World War I, now transformed into exhilarating routes for curious hikers and climbers. Each day offers a new ferrata, breathtaking views, and a taste of climbing history. Explore the stunning peaks around Cortina d’Ampezzo, immerse yourself in alpine culture, and enjoy two nights in a cozy mountain rifugio. A perfect blend of adventure, history, and unforgettable scenery—all while being guided by an expert, experienced mountain guide.

  • Arrive independently in Cortina d’Ampezzo (1,224 m / 4,016 ft) and check into your hotel (private transfers available upon request). This charming alpine resort town, surrounded by stunning peaks, gained international fame as the host of the 1956 Winter Olympics. Renowned for excellent skiing in winter, Cortina also draws hikers and climbers in the summer who take on the rugged faces of nearby mountains. A chic Venetian destination, it offers year-round activities, upscale shopping, fine dining, and vibrant social events. Depending on your arrival time, you might explore Cortina’s pedestrian-friendly Corso Italia, lined with inviting restaurants, cafes, antique shops, art galleries, and boutiques, or even enjoy a nearby hike.

    Accommodation: Hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo

  • In the morning, meet your UIAGM/IFMGA Professional Mountain Guide for a trip briefing and orientation, as well as a review of the via ferrata equipment you’ll use during your exciting adventure in the Dolomites. Your guide will accompany you throughout, teaching you the basics of navigating near-vertical walls. Afterward, take a private transfer to Rifugio Dibona to begin your first via ferrata experience.  

    Ra Pegna (2,241 m / 7,352 ft) and Ra Bujela (2,257 m / 7,405 ft) are two fantastic via ferratas located at the base of Punta Anna and the Pomedes Tower in the stunning Tofana Group. These routes provide a relaxed and beginner-friendly alternative to the more challenging via ferratas in the area. The ascents are straightforward, with no significant obstacles, making them ideal for first-time climbers. The summits offer spectacular views and excellent photo opportunities of the surrounding peaks. Due to their prime location and relatively short routes, these via ferratas can be combined with the nearby “fixed rope” Sentiero Astaldi trail for an extended adventure.

    Meals: Breakfast and dinner
    Climbing: 2.5 hours ascending two easy via ferratas
    Elevation: +200 m (656 ft), -150 m (495 ft)
    Accommodation: Rifugio

    Ropes and climbing via ferrata in the Dolomites
  • The day begins with a short transfer to Passo Falzarego, where you’ll hike to the starting point of Via Ferrata Col dei Bos. This modern via ferrata, built by Italian Alpine Troops in 2009, remains a training route for the Alpine Military and is not marked on older maps or guidebooks. The climb starts with its most challenging section, which gradually becomes easier after about 80 m (262 ft), leading to a wide ledge, a short wall, and a series of manageable slopes. The route continues with a pleasant ascent to another demanding wall, followed by a gentle grassy section. The final 100 m (328 ft) includes a few vertical segments, but with ample holds for support, it offers a secure and enjoyable experience.  

    At the 2,559 m (8,396 ft) summit, marked by a cross, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views. Rest in the scenic meadows and take in the stunning panorama of the Ampezzo Basin. Your descent follows a spectacular and panoramic trail along the base of Tofana di Rozes, leading back to your rifugio.

    Meals: Breakfast and dinner
    Hiking: 4-5 hours, 8 km (5 miles)
    Elevation: +400 m (1,312 ft), total 500 m (1,640 ft) ascent & descent
    Accommodation: Rifugio

    Two climbers asceding via ferrata in the Dolomites
  • Today, you can choose between two distinct via ferrata experiences, selected based on your ability, comfort level, weather conditions, and your guide’s recommendations.  

    Option 1: Via Ferrata Punta Anna  

    Climb the Via Ferrata Punta Anna (2,731 m / 8,960 ft), starting with a hike along the panoramic Sentiero Attrezzato Astaldi. This trail is known for its geological significance, following the base of Punta Anna’s dramatic cliffs, where steep rock faces meet vibrant, colorful slopes. From the summit of Punta Anna, descend via a short ferrata (2,580 m / 8,465 ft) and enjoy a thrilling hike down the soft scree slopes of Bus de Tofana to Rifugio Dibona. A transfer will return you to Cortina d’Ampezzo. 

    Hiking: 5 hours, 9 km (6 miles)
    Elevation: challenging +440 m (1,444 ft), total 528 m (1,732 ft) ascent & 1,197 m (3,927 ft descent)

    Option 2: Via Ferrata Giovanni Lipella  

    Take on the challenge of this full-day climb to Tofana di Rozes (3,225 m / 10,581 ft), one of the Dolomites’ most striking peaks. Starting from the rifugio, hike along the south face to the historic Castelletto Tunnel, used in 1917 by Italian troops to dismantle an Austrian stronghold atop Castelletto di Tofana. Equipped with a headlamp, traverse the tunnel before ascending the mountain’s west face on the Via Ferrata Giovanni Lipella. This route features dramatic ridges and rocky faces, with the possibility of encountering snow in early summer. Descend along the normal route to Rifugio Giussani, then continue to Rifugio Dibona for a private transfer back to Cortina.  

    Hiking: Full day, 9 km (6 miles)
    Elevation: challenging +600 m (1,969 ft), total 894 m (2,933 ft) ascent & 1,563 m (5,128 ft) descent

    Meals: Breakfast
    Accommodation: Hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo

    Four hikers Dolomites peaks
  • Following breakfast, the trip officially comes to an end. Pack up and check out, private transfer is available upon request.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Trail Dolomites hikers
Dolomites Hiking Tours
Classic hikes (11) | Hidden gems (4) | Via Ferrata (2)
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Meet your guide

Dolomite Mountains
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Dolomite Mountains
Dolomite Mountains creates unique and active outdoor experiences in Northern Italy’s Dolomites and beyond. Their roots are in the Dolomites, one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes on Earth that provides an unparalleled location for hiking, biking, climbing, skiing and much more! Dolomite Mountains has the benefit of local knowledge and expertise unlike any other, providing authentic experiences and exploring the local culture in addition to the vast panoramas and trails.
5.00(1 review)
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James H.
|July 2024
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5.00(1 review)
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James H.
|July 2024

Things to know

  • Included:

      • An experienced UIAGM/IFMGA Mountain Guide with extensive knowledge of the area
      • All technical climbing gear
      • One-day Dolomites via ferrata or 5-day Dolomites via ferrata, depending on the itinerary you choose
      • For the 5-day Dolomites via ferrata, you also get…:
        • Accommodation for 4 nights (2 nights in a 3-star B&B in Cortina d’Ampezzo, 2 nights in a rifugio (shared dormitories))
        • All breakfasts
        • Dinners in rifugio
        • Private transfers during the tour
        • Luggage transfers to the rifugio
        • A €15 donation to Wow Nature’s reforestation projects, making your trip carbon-neutral
        • Local tourist tax
        • Italian VAT tax

    Not included:

      • Flights to Italy
      • Accommodations for one-day itineraries
      • Food and snacks for one-day itineraries
      • Guide gratuities — optional
      • Travel and medical insurance
  • If you can climb a ladder, you’re good to go. Being in good shape is always a plus but far from necessary. Rock climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength. To ensure you have a fun day, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level.

    Still, keep in mind that the complete, day-long Via Ferrata routes can last up to 10 hours and require more stamina and skill. Your guide will discuss with you all possible options before determining the exact route.

    And if you’d like to join the 5-day Dolomites via ferrata, you’ll be climbing for 3 days (the first and the last day are for arrivals and departures).

  • The Dolomites have plenty of options for beginner climbers with several via Ferrata routes. With a guide by your side, you’ll learn something new, stay safe on the rocks, and most importantly, have fun!

    For intermediate climbers, the Dolomites have loads of routes to spend the day on. Your guide will discuss your objectives and customize the day to your goals. Let your guide plan the day so you can focus on developing your skills while climbing the classic routes or best hidden gems the area has to offer.

  • All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need:

      • Helmet
      • Harness with a locking carabiner, belay device, and chalk bag
      • Ropes
      • Rock shoes (included in the price, but we recommend bringing your own if you have them)
      • Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.)

    Here’s a list of personal things we suggest you bring:

      • Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 40L bag)
      • Water bottle
      • Comfortable clothing for climbing
      • Clothing for the evenings
      • Food you can eat on-the-go
      • Toiletries (sunscreen, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
      • Sunglasses
      • Camera — optional

    Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

  • Group sizes and pricing

      • For these Dolomites via ferrata climbing adventures, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 4:1. 
      • For day-long via ferratas, there’s no minimum number of people.
      • For the 5-day via ferrata, it takes at least 2 persons to run.
      • The cost per person decreases as the group grows, so it’s the perfect opportunity to hike with friends and family!

    Dolomites via ferratas can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

    Min. age requirements

      • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
      • Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

    If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

  • To get to the Dolomites, IT, most people choose one of the nearby airports—Innsbruck in Austria is 1.5 hours away, Verona and Venice in Italy are just under 2 hours away, and Milan is 3.5-4 hours away. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus or train ride to the meeting location.

    Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, whether that’s at the guide shop or a predetermined location.

    The starting point of the 5-day tour is Cortina d’Ampezzo. Depending on when you arrive, you may have time for a hike or to explore the charming town.

  • We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

    Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

    Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

  • Day Trip Cancellations

      • Full payment required at the time of booking.
      • Fully refundable within the initial 48 hours from booking, unless the trip date is less than 7 days from the time of the booking.
      • Cancellations up to 7 days prior to the trip date are refundable 100%.
      • Cancellations within 7 days prior to the trip date are non-refundable.

    Multi-Day Trip Deposits and Cancellations

    To secure your spot, a deposit in the amount of 30% is required at the time of booking. The remaining amount must be paid 75 calendar days prior to the trip departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies. If you cancel the booking…

      • More than 91 days before the departure date, a 20% cancellation fee (of the total amount) will apply. Additionally, 10% of the total amount can be credited toward a future trip with the same guides, redeemable within two calendar years.
      • 90 to 60 days before the departure date, a 30% cancellation fee (of the total amount) will apply.
      • 59 to 46 days before the departure date, a 50% cancellation fee (of the total amount) will apply. Additionally, 50% of the total amount can be credited toward a future trip with the same guides, redeemable within two calendar years.
      • Within 45 days of the departure date, no refund will be issued.

    Please note that booking fees are non-refundable in all cases and will be deducted from the refund amount.

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