Via Ferrata – Climb in the Footsteps of WWI Troops in the Dolomites
With your harnesses strapped on safely, you and your buddies head towards the towering rock ahead of you. Normally, the climb to the imposing peak would be a dangerous one even for the most experienced mountain climber – however, this time you will be pushing yourselves just that little bit further, going just that little bit higher, relying on a network of steel cables, pegs, carved steps and ladders for security and balance.
One thing is for sure: the unequalled views from the top will be so worth it! You’ll never have viewed the jaw-dropping Dolomites from a more brilliant angle...
If you’re looking for a leisurely hike, the mountains of the Dolomites are, well… perhaps not for you. Known for its steep, imposing peaks, the mountain range in north-eastern Italy regularly reaches over 3000m in altitude. You’ll easily recognise its spires of Alpine limestone from that pile of adventure travel magazines you have on your coffee table, and it takes only a glimpse to realise that these mountains aren’t for the fainthearted.
Enter Via Ferrata
With via ferrata, however, it’s possible to gain access to the world’s most striking summits. Whilst navigating a thrilling trail of metal wires, stemples (large metal staples sticking out of the rock), bridges, walkways, steps and ladders, you will be following in the footsteps of Italian and Austro-Hungarian armies who created these trails in World War One, using them to move men and supplies through areas that were previously inaccessible.
Today, the via ferrata routes are mainly equipped and maintained by the CAI (Club Alpino Italiano), and they are in excellent condition. If you’re looking for a mountain climbing adventure that has an edge to it, there are a few itineraries that should feature high on your list:
1. A Flash Visit to the Dolomites
If you and your mates are a bit short on time, you might want to consider a 5-day getaway making a round-trip from picturesque Cortina d’Ampezzo. Trying your hand (and feet) on a different via ferrata each day, you can at the same time look forward to a taste of Cortinian culture and cuisine – plus, experience the vibe of a traditional mountain rifugio!
2. Hiking and Via Ferrata
If climbing the metal trail sounds epic but you’re also really into hiking, I recommend you look into the Sella Massif. 5-day excursions leave regularly from Alta Badia, and they combine hiking with via ferrata for the optimal “why choose if you can have both” experience.
3. Traversing the Val di Fassa Region
For a longer, but all the more rewarding experience, gather your crew and traverse the glorious Val di Fassa. With an 8-day itinerary you will allow yourself to truly get to know the region’s trails and mountains, taking on the greener parts by foot and the steep mountain rocks by iron steps and ladders. By the end of it, you’ll have a wealth of epic pictures, satisfying calves, and some great stories to tell…
Been inspired? Dolomite Mountains have some expert local guides whom I’ve heard good things about in the climbing community. Why not give their site a visit and see whether they’ve got something for you!
Oh, and, before you leave… don’t forget to get in touch with our own team to get your hands on the appropriate travel insurance! If you’re making multiple trips this year, our advanced annual travel insurance policy is perfect for adventurous spirits like you. With our easy quoting system you’ll get the policy that’s right for you with the minimum amount of hassle.
You are welcome!
