A Taste of the Best Climbing and Via Ferrata
Located in northern Italy and with a unique mix of Italian and Austrian culture, the Dolomites is home to some of the grandest yet most accessible climbing and via ferrata in the world. The area is one of Europe’s most complete and varied climbing destinations, where both the enthusiastic novice and seasoned veteran are catered for in abundance; single-pitch sport crags sit next to kilometre-long traditional routes; historical ‘rites of passage’ run parallel
to modern bolted desperates.
The area is also home to the highest concentration of via ferrata in the mountains, enabling relatively straightforward access to some of the Dolomites’ most striking summits, their metal cables interspersed with breathtaking ladders and unlikely suspension bridges. These provide aerial assault courses, which combine the thrill of an ascent on rock with the security of a protected mountain scramble. All of this takes place in a scenically stunning and unique environment, the bright alpine meadows and blue sky lending colour to these so-called ‘Pale Alps’.
There are enough crags, pitches and cables in the Dolomites to keep us going for many lifetimes. Below is a brief selection of areas and routes to try, providing a smattering of what’s on offer in one of the most rewarding climbing destinations in the world.
Words and Image: James Rushforth
