Dolomites Hiking & Via Ferrata of World War I

Arrive in Cortina d’Ampezzo (1,224m / 4,016') on your own and check into your hotel (private transfer available on request). Host to the 1956 Winter Olympics, and co-host to the 2026 Winter Games with Milan, Cortina enjoys a reputation for great skiing in winter, and in the summer attracts hikers and climbers who challenge the rocky faces of the nearby mountains. This chic alpine town also caters to the high society crowd, offering many year-round social activities, shopping, and fine dining.

In the morning, meet your UIAGM/IFMGA Professional Mountain Guide for a trip briefing and orientation, and to check-out the ferrata equipment you will use for your exciting days in the Dolomites. Transfer to Passo Falzarego from where you’ll begin your hike.
The first part is the most challenging section, but it gradually gets easier and it is quite a safe and enjoyable journey! Spectacular views await you at the summit of the Col dei Bos pyramid (2,400m / 7,874'), where you can rest in the scenic meadows and admire the Ampezzo Basin.

After you've enjoyed the vistas, continue hiking until you reach Rifugio Lagazuoi (2,752m / 9,029'), one of the highest rifugios in the Dolomites. In the afternoon, discover WWI Tunnels as you hike an easy descent (200m / 656') on a “sentiero attrezzato,” a “protected path” that has hand cable railings for protection. This particular sentiero is one of the most remarkable remnants of the First World War in the Dolomites. It leads through a famous, winding tunnel that was created by Italian soldiers, who dug through Piccolo Lagazuoi from below, in order to attack the Austrian soldiers who occupied the summit. Reach the main road at Passo Falzarego and take a private transfer back to your hotel in Cortina. (2 hours hiking 670m / 2,198' descent.)
(Total: 4-5 hours hiking ~6 km / 3.6 miles total, ascending a moderate 400m / 1,312' via ferrata, with a total 700m / 2,296' ascent, 670m / 2,198' descent.)

In the morning, take a private transfer to Passo Valparola. Your hike begins at "Forte Tre Sassi" – Three Stone Fortress, one of the most interesting testimonies to the Great War on the Dolomite front.

Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a nature lover, or a history buff, Via Ferrata delle Trincee (or, way of the trenches) has a little bit of everything, all in one breathtaking journey. Not only do you get to experience some of the most interesting, exhilarating, and physically demanding terrain in the Dolomites, but you can also experience a little bit of history as the route crosses through WWI tunnels and clefts. And, of course, the views are nothing short of amazing. Just don’t forget to bring your torch (headlamp) and a pair of good hiking boots!

The ferrata ends near Passo Padon (2,369m / 7,772'), where you will have a splendid view of the Marmolada Glacier, weather permitting. Descend to Passo Fedaia (2,050m / 6,756') and transfer to your hotel in Canazei.
(4-5 hours hiking ~7km / 4 miles and ascending a difficult 300m / 984' grade 4B via ferrata, with a total of 109m / 358' hiking descent.)

Via Ferrata Masaré is a wonderful ridge itinerary that runs along the south side of Punta Masarè and Roda da Vael. It is considered medium difficulty, although some downhill sections require particular attention and commitment. While not presenting technically prohibitive traits, some exposed downhill sections require a minimum of experience in equipped trails.
The ferrata begins with a series of easy passages on the west side of the ridge. Next is a vertical ascent in a well-equipped, but definitely more demanding section than the initial, easy sections. Follow the cable into a chimney and further up on a more difficult ascent made easier by the cable and the several natural holds along the way. 

Breakfast and departure at your discretion. (Private transfer available on request).