The Tofana Dolomites represent one of the most majestic mountain massifs in the region, towering above the alpine town of Cortina d’Ampezzo. The massif is dominated by three main peaks rising above 3,000 meters, the highest being Tofana di Mezzo (3,244 m)—the third-highest peak in the entire Dolomites. You can reach the summit via the “Freccia nel Cielo” (Arrow in the Sky) cable car, which offers one of the most spectacular 360-degree panoramas in the Dolomite region.
During World War I, the rugged cliffs of Tofana became the arena for fierce and bloody battles between the Italian and Austro-Hungarian armies. One of the most prominent military engineering feats of the era is the Galleria del Castelletto tunnel, carved directly into the Tofana di Rozes mountain. Italian soldiers excavated it through solid rock to blow up the Austrian positions. Today, these historic war tunnels, trenches, and rock-hewn shelters are open to hikers, offering a deeply moving, up-close look at the tragic history of the Alpine war.
The Tofana massif is a true paradise for via ferrata enthusiasts, though many of the routes here demand excellent physical conditioning and a solid head for heights. One of the most famous is the Via Ferrata Giovanni Lipella, part of which leads straight through the long, dark, historic Castelletto tunnel. For those craving even more adrenaline and possessing mountaineering experience, the Via Ferrata Giuseppe Olivieri (Punta Anna) awaits. It is renowned for its steep, vertical, and incredibly exposed sections leading all the way up to Tofana di Mezzo.
Via ferrata Giuseppe Olivieri and Gianni Aglio
If I had to pick just one favorite via ferrata in the Dolomites, it would be the route to Tofana di Mezzo (3,224 m). The combination of Giuseppe Olivieri and Gianni Aglio via ferratas delivers thrilling ledges, steep climbing and a natural rock formations that will blow your mind. Check this article to know what to expect, how to manage the time and for best options where to stay.
Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos in the Italian Dolomites
Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos offers the ultimate Dolomites experience. Discover the perfect blend of vertical climbing, World War I history, and breathtaking 360-degree views, complete with a route extension to the world’s highest sauna at Rifugio Lagazuoi.