Via ferrata Averau is a short, beginner-friendly route leading to the summit of Averau (2,649 m). This mountain stands right next to the famous Cinque Torri towers and the impressive Tofane mountain group. Via ferrata Averau is easy, requires little effort, and offers incredibly beautiful views!
General Information About Via Ferrata Averau
- 📍 Mountain group: Nuvolau Dolomites, Italy
- 🧗♀️ Route difficulty: A
- ⏰ Route duration: 2 h
- 📏 Total distance: 4 km
- 📈 Elevation gain: 400 m
- 🔗 Cable length on the route: 75 m
- ⛰️ Highest point of the route: Averau (2,649 m)
- 🪢 Equipment & Preparation: For more information on via ferrata difficulty levels, required gear and preparation, read our article: Via Ferrata: What You Need to Know Before Starting.
Via Ferrata Averau: Where to Stay?
The most convenient way to reach via ferrata Averau is from the town of Cortina d’Ampezzo or it’s surroundings. Although Cortina is considered the capital of the Dolomites and accommodation here is quite expensive, booking in advance on booking.com can yield more affordable options.
- Option 1. One of our group consisted of 9 people, and we fit perfectly into the Spacious Alpine Retreat & Parking apartment. The apartment includes a parking space in an underground garage, which is a major advantage when staying in Cortina d’Ampezzo. It is located in the center, with many cafes and restaurants within walking distance.
- Option 2. Another excellent apartment a bit further from the center of Cortina d’Ampezzo (about a 10-minute walk) is the Via Cantore Exclusive Stay. It is suitable for groups of up to 6 people, featuring three bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and a large balcony with mountain views. This apartment has everything needed for a comfortable stay, including laundry detergent, cooking spices, and more.
Via ferrata Averau: Where to Start?
🅿️ Parking: Baita Bai de Dones 📍
The fastest way to reach the start of Via ferrata Averau is to take the 5 Torri chairlift up to the Rifugio Scoiattoli hut, located right next to Cinque Torri. A round-trip ticket for an adult costs €27.50. If you want to avoid this expense, you can hike up to Rifugio Scoiattoli via a trail, which adds 1 hour of walking time and 350 meters of elevation gain.
Also, there are other starting points available. Check the Alternative Route Variations at the end of this article.
Route Map
Via Ferrata Averau stages and progression
Below you will find the stages of the Via ferrata Averau route and specific details to look out for when planning your trip.
Stage 1: The Approach
The approach to Via ferrata Averau begins at the Rifugio Scoiattoli hut, situated right next to the Cinque Torri towers. You can get there either by taking the chairlift or by hiking up the trail from the bottom of the lift.
From Rifugio Scoiattoli, a wide path leads toward the Rifugio Averau hut. This section is usually very crowded. The path is easy and the route is scenic.
Mount Averau rises directly behind Rifugio Averau. From the hut, a small gravel path runs along the eastern side of the mountain to the start of the ferrata. Look out for the sign marking the path labeled “Ferrata Averau.” After around 15 minutes, you will reach the start of the via ferrata.
Stage 2: Via Ferrata Averau
Via ferrata Averau was renovated in 2024. During the renovation, a new line was created for the descent. Prior to this, traffic moved up and down the same line, causing significant bottlenecks. Therefore, when you reach the start of the ferrata, pay attention to the arrows painted on the rocks. They indicate which line to use for climbing up.
The via ferrata itself is not technically difficult, but it is highly engaging. You will not only climb rocks but also ladders and squeeze through a chimney carved into the rock.
The route difficulty is rated as A, with some A/B sections. Personally, it felt a bit harder to me, as there were a few technical sections I would rate as C. However, because the route is short and well-secured, it is manageable for both beginners and for fit teenagers.
Stage 3: Averau Summit
After completing the via ferrata Averau, the path continues to the summit of Averau. The trail is easy, well-marked, and obvious. If you find yourself wondering whether it is worth climbing to the summit after finishing the ferrata, the answer is a definitive yes. The 360-degree views from the top are breathtaking! You will rarely see the Dolomites like this with so little effort invested.
Stage 4: The Descent
The path back down from the summit follows the same trail. When you reach the via ferrata, pay attention to the markings, as a new line has been established for the descent. Use this line to avoid creating traffic jams.
After descending the via ferrata, return along the same path to Rifugio Averau, and then back to Rifugio Scoiattoli.
Alternative Route Variations
The Via ferrata Averau route is very short, making it perfect for a brief day in the mountains. For a longer day, via ferrata Averau can be combined with via ferrata Ra Gusela. Its difficulty is also rated A, making it an appropriate route for beginners. Combining these two ferratas results in an excellent 5 to 6-hour hike that ticks off three summits:
- Ra Gusela (2,595 m)
- Nuvolau (2,574 m)
- Averau (2,649 m)
There is also an option to start the route from the other side, starting at the Passo Giau pass.
Other routes nearby
- Via ferrata Ra Gusela – A. Suitable for beginners.
- Via ferrata Kaiserjägersteig – A. Suitable for beginners.
- Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos – B/C. Suitable for those who have already tried via ferratas.
- Via ferrata Strada degli Alpini – B. Suitable for beginners.