Climbing in the Dolomites

Spend your climbing holiday in Val Gardena and explore some of the most beautiful mountains in the world. The Dolomites offer beginners and climbing professionals the perfect conditions for all climbing disciplines.
In Val Gardena, you can climb several 3,000-metre peaks, try sport climbing, alpine climbing and via ferratas.
In Val Gardena, you can climb several 3,000-metre peaks, try sport climbing, alpine climbing and via ferratas.

A climbers' paradise

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dolomites are a climbing paradise. Whether mountaineering, alpine climbing, sport climbing, bouldering or tackling high ropes courses – you will find the perfect conditions for a climbing holiday here. Val Gardena, with its villages of Ortisei, S. Cristina and Selva, is the ideal starting point for unforgettable climbing tours that will lead you to famous Dolomite peaks and magical views. The Dolomites have long been world-famous as a hotspot for alpine climbing. Adventures await you on the via ferratas in Val Gardena and the surrounding area that will take you to your limits and allow you to grow beyond them.

Highlights: Climbing in Val Gardena

  1. Val Gardena is home to some of the most famous climbing routes in the Dolomites. Here you can add amazing highlights to your tour book.
  2. The via ferratas in the Dolomites are unique. Get to know historic via ferratas that have challenged athletes on the rocks for generations.
  3. Unique rocks and some of the most beautiful mountains in the world await you in the Dolomites. Discover a beautiful landscape that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  4. The famous Sassolungo, Grohmann Peak, Sass Rigais, Furchetta and Piz Boè are among the Dolomite peaks that are higher than 3,000 metres.
  5. Two alpine schools in Val Gardena support you on your tours with qualified mountain guides and climbing courses where you can develop your skills.
  6. Rent the necessary equipment on site. From ropes to carabiners, via ferrata sets to harnesses, you can easily find the right climbing equipment to rent.
  7. Whether you are a family with children, a beginner climber or an experienced climber – in the climbing gardens of the Dolomites, climbers of all levels will get their money's worth.

Alpine climbing

Alpine climbing has a long tradition in Val Gardena. Numerous 3,000-metre peaks in the area invite you to experience unforgettable tours. On the Sassolungo, the Sella massif and the Odle Peaks on the Seceda, among others, there are hundreds of easy (plaisir) and difficult routes and leads in all degrees of difficulty on which you can reach the famous peaks. All tours should be carefully planned and only undertaken with full equipment and the appropriate experience. With a mountain guide by your side, you will be particularly safe and learn interesting and exciting facts about climbing in the legendary Dolomites.

Climbers in Val Gardena Dolomites Zoom
Every year, climbers are drawn to the Dolomites to add well-known routes to their touring books.
Couple climbing on the Sassolungo Zoom
The normal route to the summit of the Sassolungo, a landmark of Val Gardena, is a very popular climbing destination.
Sassolungo summit with view towards Sella Zoom
From the summit of the 3,181-metre-high Sassolungo, you will often get a fantastic panorama over the Dolomites.
Mountain guide with customer on the Sassolungo Zoom
With a mountain guide, you can undertake a climbing tour that you would otherwise not be able to do alone.
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Recommendation: Climbing guide

  • "The Dolomites: Rock Climbs and via Ferrata" - ISBN: 1873341970
  • "Klettern in Gröden und Umgebung" - Volume 1 (ISBN: 8868394251) und Volume 2 (ISBN: 8882667316) (in German)

The history & famous climbers of Val Gardena

As early as the end of the 19th century, the Dolomites emerged as a centre of alpinism. With the climbing boom that began in the 50s of the 20th century, the number of accidents that required rescue operations in hard-to-reach terrain also increased. While mountain guides initially undertook the dangerous rescue operations, soon the mountain rescue service was founded as well as the Val Gardena climbing guild "Catores", which included famous mountaineers from Val Gardena and its surroundings.

Johann Baptist "Batista" Vinatzer

Like many men from Val Gardena, the farm boy Johann Baptist "Batista" Vinatzer trained as a sculptor. However, he preferred to spend his time in the mountains, where he achieved amazing feats as one of the pioneers of free climbing. He was a co-founder of the Catores. Today you can climb in Vinatzer's footsteps on numerous mountain routes, including the Marmolada south face or the Sella Tower.

Ferdinand Glück (1901-1987)

Ferdinand Glück, a mountain guide from Val Gardena, became a legend as the "King of the Sella Towers" in the 1930s. The mountaineer, cross-country skier, ski jumper and skier opened up more than 20 rock routes, some of which you can still climb today. He was the first climber to succeed in climbing through the bald south face of the Piz Ciavazes in 1928.

Vinzenz Malsiner (1940-1998)

At the age of 17, Vinzenz Malsinger, the son of a farmer, began climbing. One of the most talented climbers of his time, Malsiner became a member of the Technical Commission of Mountain Guides and Catores. More than a dozen first ascents are credited to him, including the Diretissima on the Il Dente and the north face of the 4th Sella Tower.

Leonardo Emilio Comici (1901-1940)

Born in Trieste, Leonardo Emilio Comici is undoubtedly considered the best alpinist of his time. Before his climbing career, he undertook daring expeditions as a speleologist and set a depth record. As a climber, he was among the first to master difficulty level VI. He passed on his knowledge to many students. Numerous routes in the Dolomites commemorate him. On 19 October 1940, he died in a fall in the Vallunga valley near Selva.

Via ferratas

A very easy and safe introduction to the sport of climbing is climbing on a via ferrata ("iron path"). Via ferratas ("fixed rope route") are specially designed for beginners to intermediate climbers. Around Val Gardena, there are numerous via ferratas with different levels of difficulty. Find out about the current conditions on the via ferrata and the weather before your tour. During the high season, you should start early in the morning so that you can enjoy your climbing tour in peace. Whether it's the historic Mesules via ferrata or the charming Oskar-Schuster via ferrata – each via ferrata has its very own charms and special features that will make you forget about any exertion. Explore the most beautiful via ferratas in Val Gardena in the Dolomites.

Ascent via ferrata small Cir Zoom
The via ferratas up to the Cir Peaks are easy and popular for experiencing a sunrise, for example.
Via ferrata Mesules Val Gardena Zoom
From the Mesules via ferrata, the view opens up to the Sassolungo, Passo Sella and down towards Selva.
Via ferrata in the Dolomites Zoom
Via ferratas are a way to start climbing or to undertake a climbing tour on your own.
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Recommendation: Via ferrata guide

  • "Via Ferratas of the Italian Dolomites" - Volume 1 (ISBN: 1852848464)

Frequently asked questions: Via Ferratas

What does "via ferrata" mean?

"Via ferrata" is the Italian term for a fixed rope route. The term means "iron path", which refers to the ladders, iron pins, steps and steel ropes used to secure the climbing path to the rock.

What is a secured via ferrata or fixed rope route?

Via ferratas make challenging summit climbs through rock accessible to inexperienced climbers. Iron ladders, clamps, ropes and iron pins ensure safe footing on the rock.

What do you need to climb a via ferrata?

The minimum basic equipment includes a climbing helmet, climbing harness and via ferrata set. If you wish, you can also use via ferrata gloves. You can also rent all the equipment for a via ferrata hike on-site during your holiday in Val Gardena.

Sport climbing

Val Gardena is not only a paradise for fans of alpine climbing. Sport climbers also get their money's worth here. In the numerous climbing areas such as the Città dei Sassi, Cansla, Frea, Traumpfeiler and Bernardi you can experience climbing in a dreamlike alpine ambience and in pleasant tranquillity. In addition to classic sport climbing areas, Val Gardena and its surroundings also offer numerous multi-pitch alpine routes secured with bolts. Your personal limits are the only limits you will encounter on the mesmerising rock faces. Equipment for sport climbing can be rented in Val Gardena if required.

Bouldering in Val Gardena

Few people know that in addition to classic alpine climbing and sport climbing in the Dolomites, you can also go bouldering. The largest bouldering area is the Città dei Sassi at the Passo Sella, where mountaineers perfected their skills on small boulders as early as the 1930s. Close to Ortisei there is another bouldering area where you can find ideal conditions from May to October: Pontives. If the weather doesn't cooperate but you just cannot wait, we recommend the bouldering hall in Ortisei.

Recommendation: Bouldering guide

  • "Bouldern in Südtirol" - ISBN: 9788898495092 (in German language)

Bouldering area: Pontives

It was only in 2010 that climbers became aware of the boulders scattered in the forest above the Pontives industrial zone. Several young climbers from Val Gardena began to explore the area and free the boulders from the dense moss growth to make them climbable. Bouldering in the area is possible from May to the end of October. In autumn, it can get quite cold, as the Pontives bouldering area is at an altitude of about 1,200 m. The best season is definitely summer when the Pontives forest provides climbers with a pleasant coolness. After periods of rain, the boulders usually dry within 1-2 days. The rock is compact porphyry that provides boulderers with vertical and slightly overhanging blocks with hangers and ledges. The highest boulders are about 6 m high and the landing zones are usually quite acceptable.

  • Ascent: 5-20 minutes
  • Boulder: 82
  • Difficulty: 4 - 8b
  • Sectors: 4
Bouldering area Steinerne Stadt Val Gardena Zoom
The short approach to the Città dei Sassi bouldering area is from the Passo Sella. It takes just 5-15 minutes to walk there.
Bouldering Steinerne Stadt Dolomites Zoom
The Città dei Sassi under the Sassolungo has become one of the largest bouldering areas in South Tyrol.
Bouldering in Val Gardena Zoom
A rockfall a long time ago created countless small and large boulders under the Sassolungo.
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Bouldering area: City of Stones

The City of Stones ("Città dei Sassi") is located below the Sassolungo near the Sella Pass. The countless boulders were created a long time ago by an enormous rockfall and still serve many people as a training area today. On the boulders, which are up to 20 m high, there are not only many sport climbing routes but also countless bouldering routes. Due to its location at an altitude of approximately 2,300 m, the climbing season here is quite short: the best time of year is from June to September. In the meantime, the Città dei Sassi has become one of the largest bouldering areas in Italy. The bouldering is done on perforated dolomite rock.

  • Ascent: 5-15 minutes
  • Altitude: 1150 m
  • Difficulty: 3 - 8a
  • Rock: Dolomite

High ropes course

The Col de Flam Adventure Park is an excursion destination that you should not miss on your family holiday. The adventure park is located in Ortisei, very close to the Val d'Anna. Here you will find a high ropes course where you can challenge your fear of heights and your bravery on three courses. While children up to 12 years of age have fun on the 80-metre course, the classic course and a difficult course also challenge older climbers. One of the attractions in a class of its own is a 680-metre-long fly-line. In addition, an animal park and a trampoline facility have been set up for younger visitors.

Adventure Park Emozion Col de Flam Zoom
The high ropes course "Emozion Col de Flam" in Ortisei is a real attraction for families with children.
Adventure Park in Val Gardena Zoom
The high ropes course offers different routes for young and old, a zipline and a fly-line.
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Other high ropes courses in South Tyrol

If the Col de Flam Adventure Park is not enough for you, you will find other high ropes courses in South Tyrol that offer climbers and families with children the opportunity to test themselves and be active in the wonderful forests. Discover varied high ropes courses and adventure parks in the surroundings of Val Gardena that guarantee lots of fun.

Funes High Ropes Course

The Funes high ropes course is located at the foot of the Odle Peaks in the Dolomites and offers you a lot of variety in different difficulty levels on nine courses. There is also a 14-metre-high climbing tower.

Lasa - Allitz Forest Ropes Course

The Lasa - Allitz forest ropes course is situated in an idyllic location in the village of Silandro - Lasa in the Val Venosta region. Here you can prove your courage on 10 courses with 100 platforms. The panorama course lets you enjoy unique views from 16 platforms.

Skytrek Vipiteno High Ropes Course

The Skytrek high ropes course in Vipiteno is the ideal destination for a summer excursion with the whole family. Children and adults love balancing over wobbly bridges, climbing through nets and taking wild rides on the zipline.

Obereggen High Ropes Course

The Obereggen forest high ropes course is located in the middle of the popular Val d'Ega holiday region. On four varied courses, you have to overcome nets, bridges and tree trunks. For little climbers, there is a children's course and a monkey climbing tree.

Caldaro High Ropes Course

The high ropes course in Caldaro is especially aimed at families. As the largest adventure park in South Tyrol, it offers you 19 courses with 163 elements that harmonise perfectly with the natural surroundings.

Dobbiaco Adventure Park

The Dobbiaco Adventure Park is located in the Dolomite Tre Cime region and inspires not only families but also demanding climbers who want to take on new challenges. Trained guides are on hand to help visitors safely navigate the courses.

Climbing holiday: Accommodation

In Val Gardena, you will find numerous hotels and holiday flats where climbers are in good hands. Stay with hosts who will provide you with valuable tips and choose a B&B, from which you can set off on your climbing excursion in the morning well fortified. All the main climbing areas in the region are easily accessible from the villages of Val Gardena.

Mountain hotels

The mountain hotels in Val Gardena are located at an altitude of at least 1,600 metres and offer a fantastic location in the middle of the mountains. Set off from the hotel on unforgettable climbing tours, enjoy excellent cuisine and leave the stress of everyday life far behind you.

Tips for your climbing trip

When climbing on your own in the mountains, always pay attention to your safety, never be alone on the rock and regularly check the condition of your equipment. Check the weather daily before your trip. The local mountain guides are ideal contacts for planning and carrying out your tours.

Mountain guide & Alpine schools

With a mountain guide, you are safe in the Dolomites. Go on guided tours, suggest your own tours or have someone recommend one you shouldn't miss. Guiding is also possible on the via ferratas. In addition to maximum safety, you can expect the friendly company of an experienced mountain guide who will always be happy to answer any questions you may have about climbing or nature. The prices for this service are available upon request at the mountain guide offices. The alpine schools also offer climbing courses for all levels.

Mountain rescue

The mountain rescue team in Val Gardena consists of about 50 members with dog handlers, mountain guides, winch men, air rescue technicians and many other specialists. All of them have extensive experience on rock, ice and snow. The mountain rescue team, rich in tradition, undertakes about 200 missions per year and has state-of-the-art emergency vehicles.

Emergency situations: Rules of conduct and tips

Even experienced mountaineers can get into emergency situations in the mountains. Here's how to behave correctly:

  • Keep calm: Stay calm, act with caution and administer first aid.
  • Emergency message: Issue an emergency message, remove injured people from the danger zone, secure the accident site and take care of the victims by standing with them until help arrives.
  • Have information ready: Answer the questions of the emergency services. Who made the report? What happened and how many people are injured and how seriously? Where is the accident site and when did it happen?

Mountain huts and refuges

Mountain huts and refuges come in various categories, ranging from simple shelter from snow and storms to a year-round managed hut where you can have a great meal and even spend the night. In all situations where you need help or realise that you are reaching your limits, the huts are a good place to go. In and around Val Gardena there is a dense network of mountain huts and refuges for every need.

More activities in Val Gardena

The Dolomites are guaranteed to lure you outdoors during your holiday. Go on unforgettable hikes or explore the mountains by mountain bike. Cosy mountain huts invite you to take a break while playgrounds, climbing parks and mountain pastures are a paradise for families with children. Discover the numerous activities in Val Gardena.