If you want to experience the Dolomites in an unusual way, and for some, an adrenaline rush is the best feeling, don’t miss the chance to take a via ferrata in the Dolomites! Climb to the top of the mountain along a route equipped with steel cables and clamps, and enjoy the magnificent panorama of the mountains.
The most beautiful climbing routes and via ferrata in South Tyrol are located in the Dolomites. It should be noted, however, that the rocky slopes of the Dolomites offer a completely different relief and difficulty than typical artificial climbing walls with good, reliable holds and short routes. However, these impressive mountains are also accessible to beginners.
In any case, the Dolomites are simply made for more than one visit.
Via Ferrata in the Dolomites for Beginners
In the Dolomites, not only professional mountaineers and climbers will find routes to their liking: beginners can also Choose a route that suits your abilities and experience.
Three particularly beautiful via ferratas for beginners:
Hexenstein, Südkante
The south face of Hexenstein is an exciting, yet relatively easy introduction to mountaineering. This mountain in the province of Belluno is composed of rough, solid rock with a seemingly endless number of holds and bolts. A safe climb of approximately two hours awaits you. Below, the breathtaking green, rolling landscape of the Dolomites unfolds. Since the route faces south, the most pleasant time to climb it in summer is morning or early evening. During these hours, there’s also a good chance of finding yourself alone on the via ferrata.
Rotwand Via Ferrata
The Rotwand Via Ferrata in Eggental is best suited for beginners. Magnificent scenery awaits you—the rugged, rugged mountain panorama here is truly unique. The route consists of several climbs.
First, you’ll ascend the via ferrata from the Vajolon Pass to the summit of Mount Rotwand. From there, you can either return the same way or descend along a meadow ridge to a short, steep section leading to the saddle between the Rotwand and the Masarékamm ridge. The via ferrata itself takes about an hour and a half.
Averau, southwest face
Monte Avero in the province of Belluno is one of the higher peaks of the Nuvolaugroup in the Dolomites. However, even beginners can climb the route along the southwest face of the mountain. Although the wall is quite steep, the rock here is very solid and offers many opportunities for a safe and relatively easy climb to the summit.
The views during the climb are truly breathtaking: red rock directly in front of you and above your head, and green alpine meadows below. Passing viaThe ferrata on Monte Avero takes about 3 hours, including the ascent and descent.
Via Ferratas for Experienced Climbers in the Dolomites
If you already have climbing experience and want to climb challenging via ferratas in the Dolomites, these three routes are worth considering:
Maximiliansteig, Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)
The Maximiliansteig via ferrata in the Alpe di Siusi area is ideal for a one-day route. The entire circular route, including ascent and descent, should take approximately 8 hours. The rock section itself is limited to difficulty levels A/B, but due to its overall length, the route should not be underestimated in terms of physical exertion.
The via ferrata connects the peaks of the Grosser Rosszan and Roterdspitze and passes directly above the Tirser Alp hut. From the summit, a magnificent panorama of the Dolomites opens up.
Via Ferrata Mario Zandonella
Surrounded by jagged rock formations, the route along the south face has two variants: the purely southern route is rated C/D, while the southeast route is D. Like many via ferratas in the Dolomites, these variants often follow old military trails dating back to World War I. Plan on about 8 hours for the entire route.
Via Ferrata Westgrat-Klettersteig, Marmolada
At high altitudes, the 800-meter south face of the Marmolada leads experienced climbers to the highest peak in the Dolomites, at 3,343 meters. Although this via ferrata is considered well-balanced, its high-altitude nature must be taken into account. Alternatively, a glacier descent is possible. The route’s difficulty is rated as C.
Climbing Courses in the Dolomites
For those just starting out in climbing, a course in the Dolomites is recommended. However, even experienced climbers and professionals never stop learning and can hone their skills in specialized courses. Many mountain schools offer training.
Introductory courses led by a mountain guide gradually introduce the basics of climbing and are a great way to discover a new sport. Especially for children, climbing can be a fun and safe activity under the supervision of a specialist. An additional benefit of organized tours and courses is the provision of all necessary equipment.
Experienced climbers can hone their techniques on advanced courses and benefit from joint outings with mountain guides. Guides are well-versed in the features and dangers of various via ferratas, which helps them navigate routes safely and confidently.
Source: alp.org.ua