Introduction To Via Ferrata

Day 1
Fly to Venice; transfer to Dobbiaco.

Day 2 - 7
We enjoy five guided high-level mountain walks, including Via Ferrata or protected scrambling, and one free day for your own exploration.
This area has some of the most famous Via Ferrata routes in the Dolomites, many dating back to the First World War. Fortifications were placed on strategic cols and summits, connected by airy paths using iron ladders, bridges and even tunnels through the rock. The most impressive and memorable route takes us around the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, situated in the Sexten Dolomites. When we venture into the Fanes-Sennes Braies Natural Park that surrounds Cortina, a large variety of protected scrambling routes become available.
Thanks to the number of walking routes available and our leaders' intimate knowledge of the area, the best route will be chosen daily, depending on the weather and ability of the group. So we may start the week with some high level walking involving only one or two sections of Via Ferrata. Then we would move on to more challenging routes with longer sections of Via Ferrata and more exposed sections that could test our head for heights. We could end the week on a high with a classic such as Marino Bianchi or Col Rosa.
Our local leaders start the week with basic training on Via Ferrata techniques and they continue to offer tips during the week on our challenging walks and scrambles across Via Ferrata routes. UIAGM leaders do not always stay in the same hotel as the group, but the hotel staff are always available for any questions in the evening.
The free day will usually be a Wednesday or Thursday and optional activities include another walk through these beautiful mountains, normally suggested by the hotel staff. Alternatively, you may choose to enjoy the swimming pool. Perhaps a day trip to Bolzano is more for you, to see the remains of Oetzi - the famous 'ice-man'. See Extra Expenses in the Trip Notes for details.

Day 8
To Venice; fly London.