Via Ferrata in the Dolomites

The stunning Dolomites await! Our adventure kicks off in the beautiful mountain town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, a renowned alpine destination often referred to as the “Queen of the Dolomites.” Famous for its breathtaking scenery, world-class ski slopes, and vibrant mountain culture, Cortina offers the perfect blend of adventure and charm. Nestled in a valley surrounded by dramatic peaks, it’s a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

For those flying in, the meeting point is Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE), where our private road transfer will depart promptly at 17:00. Please ensure your flights arrive well before that time. If you arrive early, feel free to explore Venice while we wait for the rest of the team. For those of us who can’t make it before the departure of the shuttle, it is possible to arrange a private transfer through the LHO Base Camp team for an extra cost.

If you’re arriving directly in Cortina d’Ampezzo, we’ll meet you at our hotel, where your LHO Team Leader will be on hand to welcome you. Please keep in mind that check-in at our accommodation begins at 3 pm.

Our first official event is a team dinner and briefing at 8:30 pm at a local restaurant. This is your opportunity to meet your fellow adventurers, our lead mountain guide, and the LHO crew. We’ll go over the week’s itinerary and the exciting Via Ferrata routes we’ll tackle, so be sure to have your gear ready because the action starts tomorrow!

Distance: 8 KM | Ascent: 900 M | Descent: 900 M | Grade: VF2A

After breakfast, we’ll depart from Cortina d’Ampezzo around 8 am by private transfer, heading toward the stunning Cinque Torri area. Known for its towering rock formations, this region is a climber’s paradise and marks the start of our next adventure: the Via Ferrata Averau.

Once we arrive, we’ll gear up and begin our approach to the Averau peak by chairlift and then traversing through scenic alpine meadows with the iconic Cinque Torri as our backdrop. The Via Ferrata Averau is one of the most popular routes in the area, offering a thrilling mix of exposed rock faces, ladders, and cables that challenge both beginners and experienced adventurers alike.

As we climb, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding Dolomites, including the majestic Tofane and Marmolada ranges. The route, though steep and exposed in sections, is highly rewarding, with our experienced guides ensuring your safety at every step.

Around midday, we’ll pause for a picnic lunch near the summit of Averau, where you can soak in the incredible 360-degree views. The sight of the endless peaks stretching across the horizon will leave you in awe of the Dolomites’ raw beauty.

After taking in the panoramic scenery, we’ll make our descent back to the Rifugio Scoiattoli, a charming mountain hut nestled among the Cinque Torri, where you’ll have a chance to grab a coffee or a light snack before continuing down the valley by chairlift.

By late afternoon, we’ll return to Cortina d’Ampezzo, where you’ll have time to unwind and enjoy a second night in this vibrant alpine town. Take a leisurely evening stroll or relax at the hotel before we gather for dinner to share stories of the day’s adventure.

Tomorrow, we’ll continue our exploration of the Dolomites, with even more spectacular climbs and experiences awaiting us.

Distance: 6 KM | Ascent: 1,000 M | Descent: 1,000 M | Grade: VF3B

We’ll start the day with breakfast before departing from Cortina around 8 am to tackle one of the most iconic Via Ferrata routes in the region: Michielli Strobel. Located on the rugged Punta Fiames, this route is known for its challenging vertical climbs and thrilling exposure, making it a favorite for even the mosre experienced climbers.

The Michielli Strobel route offers steep, sustained climbing with dramatic views over the Ampezzo Valley and the jagged Dolomite peaks. Our guides will ensure you’re confident in tackling the tricky sections as we ascend over iron ladders, cables, and exposed ridgelines. Though this Via Ferrata requires endurance, the rewards are immense—the higher we climb, the more spectacular the views become.

After a successful summit and descent, we’ll return to Cortina for a brief rest and a well-deserved lunch. Following our morning of adventure, the afternoon brings a change of pace as we head to one of the Dolomites’ most picturesque and serene spots: Lago di Braies.

The drive to Lago di Braies will take us through stunning mountain scenery, and upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the lake’s crystal-clear turquoise waters, framed by towering peaks and lush forest. This afternoon is dedicated to relaxation—take a peaceful walk around the lake, rent a boat to gently row across the waters, or simply sit by the shore and soak in the breathtaking beauty of this alpine gem. It’s the perfect way to unwind after an adrenaline-filled morning on the rock.

We’ll return to Cortina by early evening, giving you free time to explore the town, shop for souvenirs, or relax at a local café. Dinner will be hosted by your LHO Team Leader and guide where we’ll discuss the second half of our itinerary.

Distance: 12 KM | Ascent: 700 M | Descent: 300 M

Today, we embark on one of the most iconic hikes in the Dolomites: the Tre Cime di Lavaredo circuit. After breakfast, we’ll leave Cortina in the early morning for a scenic drive to the trailhead, where the dramatic peaks of the Tre Cime—the Three Peaks—dominate the skyline. These towering monoliths are among the most recognizable landmarks in the Dolomites and offer a breathtaking backdrop for today’s trek.

We’ll set off on a circular route that takes us around the Tre Cime, with plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the towering cliffs, lush meadows, and panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomite ranges. The trail offers a moderate hike with some rocky sections, but the beauty of the landscape makes every step worthwhile. Along the way, we’ll pass by alpine lakes, sweeping valleys, and the famous north face of the Tre Cime, an awe-inspiring sight that’s sure to leave an impression.

Around midday, we’ll stop for a packed picnic lunch at a scenic spot along the trail, with the majestic peaks as our backdrop. It’s a perfect moment to rest, refuel, and take in the peacefulness of the high mountains.

In the afternoon, we’ll continue the trek toward Rifugio Locatelli, where we’ll spend the night. Perched at 2,450 meters, this cozy mountain refuge offers unbeatable views of the Tre Cime and the surrounding landscape. After settling in, you’ll have some free time to explore the area, visit nearby World War I bunkers, or simply relax and enjoy the alpine atmosphere.

As the evening sets in, we’ll gather for dinner at the rifugio, surrounded by the beauty of the Dolomites. After dinner, we’ll review the plan for the next day, which promises more spectacular trekking and adventure in this stunning region.

Distance: 8 KM | Ascent: 900 M | Descent: 900 M | Grade: VF2B

We’ll begin the day with an early breakfast at our accommodation, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Dolomites. After preparing for the day, we’ll set out toward our next Via Ferrata challenge: the Sentiero de Luca.

This Via Ferrata offers a thrilling combination of technical climbing, exposed ledges, and magnificent alpine views. With its mix of rocky gullies, steep sections, and iron cables, the Sentiero de Luca is both a challenging and rewarding climb. As we ascend, our expert guides will lead you safely through the most technical sections, all while you take in the stunning views of the jagged peaks and deep valleys that define this iconic landscape.

Once we’ve completed the climb and enjoyed the rush of accomplishment, we’ll stop for a well-earned picnic lunch in the mountains.

By the afternoon, we’ll begin our descent from the via ferrata and head back to meet our private transfer, which will take us on a scenic drive through the valleys toward the charming town of Canazei.

Once in Canazei, we’ll check into our accommodation and you’ll have the evening to unwind and explore this lovely alpine town. Take a leisurely walk through Canazei’s quaint streets, visit a local café, or simply relax before we gather for a group dinner at a local restaurant where we’ll receive the briefing for the following day.

Distance: 9 KM | Ascent: 950 M | Descent: 950 M | Grade: VF2B

We’ll begin the day with an early breakfast. By 8 am, we’ll leave Canazei and head toward the Sentiero Massimiliano Via Ferrata, situated on the stunning ridges of the Sella Group.

Once we arrive, we’ll gear up and begin our ascent on this spectacular route. The Sentiero Massimiliano offers thrilling exposure and technical sections that will push your stamina and skills to new heights. With steep climbs, narrow traverses, and sweeping views of the Dolomites surrounding us, this route is a true highlight of the trip. Our experienced guides will lead the way, ensuring everyone feels confident and safe as we navigate the various challenges.

Around midday, we’ll pause for a scenic picnic lunch high in the mountains, taking in the rugged beauty of the jagged peaks and the endless alpine vistas. This moment of peace, surrounded by the dramatic landscape, offers the perfect opportunity to recharge for the remainder of the route.

After completing the via ferrata, we’ll make our way toward Rifugio Alpe di Tires, a cozy mountain refuge nestled at 2,440 meters. As we ascend to the rifugio, you’ll be treated to more breathtaking views of the Dolomites, making the journey all the more rewarding.

Upon arrival at the rifugio, you’ll have some time to settle in and unwind, enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the high-altitude refuge. This will be our home for our last night spent in the mountains.

In the evening, we’ll gather for a traditional mountain dinner at the rifugio where we’ll discuss the plan for our last via ferrata of the trip.

Distance: 9 KM | Ascent: 1,000 M | Descent: 850 M | Grade: VF3A

We’ll begin our final full day with an early breakfast at Rifugio Alpe di Tires, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the high-altitude valley one last time. After packing up and preparing our gear, we’ll set out for today’s exciting Via Ferrata adventure: the Laurenzi-Molignon route.

The Laurenzi-Molignon Via Ferrata is known for its thrilling exposure and technical sections. With steep climbs, challenging ridges, and breathtaking views, this route is a true highlight of the Dolomites. As we leave the rifugio, our guides will lead the way, ensuring everyone feels confident as we traverse the rugged terrain. The route will push your stamina and reward you with incredible vistas as we ascend into the rocky crags of the Molignon group.

By midday, we’ll pause for a well-deserved picnic lunch at a scenic spot along the route. Surrounded by jagged peaks and sweeping alpine landscapes, this will be the perfect opportunity to take a break and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

After lunch, we’ll continue climbing through the Laurenzi-Molignon route, pushing toward the final sections of this exhilarating ferrata. Upon completing the climb, we’ll begin our descent, gradually making our way back to the valley floor.

Once we’ve returned to the base, we’ll board our private transfer for the scenic drive to Bolzano our final stop of our tour of the Dolomites.

Upon arrival in Bolzano, you’ll have some free time to relax, explore, or take a leisurely walk through the town’s charming streets. Bolzano is known for its unique blend of Italian and Tyrolean culture, offering a vibrant mix of history, architecture, and local cuisine.

In the evening, we’ll gather for a final group dinner at one of Bolzano’s traditional restaurants.

After dinner, you’ll have the rest of the evening to enjoy Bolzano at your leisure. Whether you choose to explore the town or simply relax, this will be your last evening to savor the beauty of the Dolomites and reflect on the incredible experiences of the week.

Our final day together will be dedicated to transfers and farewells as we wrap up an incredible week in the Dolomites. Breakfast is included in the morning, giving you a chance to enjoy one last meal with your fellow adventurers before heading home. Our included private transfer to the airport arrives at Venice Marco-Polo Airport at 10:30 AM. Please ensure that you book your departure flight from at least 13:30 onwards to ensure you have enough time to check in.

If there have been any changes to your travel plans, kindly notify your LHO Team Leader as early as possible so we can adjust the arrangements accordingly.