Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos is one of the most memorable routes in the Italian Dolomites. While some ferratas stand out for their technical difficulty and others for their spectacular views or historical heritage, Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos offers everything in one package. By choosing this route, you will experience a diverse, action-packed day – ranging from exploring World War I historical sites to soaking in breathtaking panoramic views of the Dolomites.
General information: Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos
- 📍 Mountain group: Fanis Dolomites, Italy
- 🧗♀️ Route difficulty: B/C
- ⏰ Duration: 5–6 hours (including the extension to Rifugio Lagazuoi)
- 📏 Total distance: 10 km
- 🔗 Cable length on the route: 350 m
- ⛰️ Highest point: Col dei Bos (2,559 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 degli Alpini al col dei Bos: Accommodation
The most convenient place to reach this via ferrata from is the town of Cortina d’Ampezzo or its surroundings. Although Cortina is considered the capital of the Dolomites and accommodation here is quite pricey, booking well in advance on booking.com can yield more budget-friendly options. Our group consisted of 9 people and we fit perfectly into the Spacious Alpine Retreat & Parking apartment. The apartment includes a parking spot in an underground garage, which is a massive plus when staying in Cortina d’Ampezzo. It is located right in the center, with plenty of cafes and restaurants within walking distance.
Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos: Where to Start?
🅿️ Parking: Ristorante “da Strobel” parking lot
When doing the Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos, you can leave your car in the “Da Strobel” restaurant parking lot completely free of charge. The route starts right behind the restaurant. What makes this via ferrata unique and exceptionally convenient is just how close it starts to the parking area. Such easy access to a via ferrata is a rare find in the Dolomites!
Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos: Stages and Progression
Below you will find the stages of the Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos route and details on what to look out for when planning your trip.
Stage 1: The Approach
To reach the start of the Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos, follow the signs leading toward Col dei Bos. The trail begins in the forest, but before long, remnants of World War I infrastructure appear – former military hospitals, fortifications, caves, and other military sites. In the distance, the surrounding views begin to open up, showcasing the spectacular Cinque Torri rocks in all their glory. Soon enough, you will reach the via ferrata cables.
⏱️ Time check: The hike from the parking lot to the via ferrata cables takes about half an hour.
Stage 2: Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos
As soon as you reach the start of the cables, get ready for some serious climbing. The route ascends about 100 meters straight up a steep rock face. Here, you’ll need to actively work your arms and trust your feet – at the beginning, there are only small rock ledges to step on. However, the via ferrata anchoring is excellent, which makes the climb a lot easier.
Tip: To boost your confidence on steep via ferrata sections, I highly recommend trying out indoor rock climbing before your trip. Climbing helps you better understand how to position your body when moving on vertical routes.
After the first 80 meters, the climbing becomes easier and more varied; larger ledges appear where you can catch your breath, along with some beautiful top outs.
After a few hours of navigating the winding via ferrata route, you will top out onto a pass. From there, it’s only about a half hour hike to the summit. Once the via ferrata ends, you’ll just need to walk through a meadow to reach the peak of Col dei Bos (2,559 m). The summit is marked by a wooden cross. From here, you get stunning 360-degree views of some of the most beautiful peaks in the Italian Dolomites ❤️
Stage 3: Rifugio Lagazuoi
Although you can descend from the summit of Col dei Bos via a nearby winding path and return to the starting point in just over half an hour, I highly recommend extending your day by a few hours and hiking up to Rifugio Lagazuoi.
The route to the rifugio is incredibly beautiful, diverse, and fascinating. Along the way, you can still find remnants of WWI fortifications and dug out trenches.
The views from the terrace of Rifugio Lagazuoi are arguably some of the most beautiful in the entire Dolomites. You can see the peaks of Tofana, Marmolada, and Cristallo all around you. The scenery is simply breathtaking!
Rifugio Lagazuoi is also unique because it features a sauna! At 2,752 m, it is the highest sauna in the world – a true luxury. Through the sauna windows, you can look out at the peaks I mentioned earlier.
- Day visitors (no overnight booking): Open from 10:00 to 15:00, price is €30 per person.
- Overnight guests: Hours are from 15:30 to 18:30, price is €25.
- Note: Reservations can be made on the Rifugio Lagazuoi website. If you want to stay overnight, it is highly recommended to book at least 6 months or more in advance as the hut is extremely popular.
If you don’t make it in time for the sauna, you can still stop for a meal at the hut. When visiting the Italian Dolomites, I highly recommend trying Tiroler Gröstl. This is a traditional Austrian and Tyrolean dish made of potatoes, bacon, and eggs. It’s the perfect comfort food that actually reminds me a bit of my childhood ❤️ Exactly what you need after a full day in the mountains!
Stage 4: the descent
The way down follows the Via ferrata Kaiserjägersteig route. This is a very easy via ferrata that leads through WWI trenches. Along the route, you’ll see multiple bunkers and fortifications, and you’ll even cross a suspension bridge! If you still have the energy, it’s incredibly interesting to explore the surrounding historical heritage.
After descending a vertical section, you’ll hit a straight path leading right back to the parking lot near the “Da Strobel” restaurant. We popped into the hut one last time for a cup of coffee and a slice of cake. It was a perfect day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos suitable for beginners?
Via Ferrata degli Alpini al Col dei Bos is of moderate difficulty, so it can be a challenge for absolute beginners. That said, people with a good fitness level who aren’t afraid of heights and are already familiar with basic via ferrata principles often complete this route successfully. If this is your first ferrata, I recommend going with a mountain guide or trying out some easier routes in the Dolomites first.
What equipment is required for Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos?
Standard via ferrata gear is mandatory for this route: a helmet, a harness and a via ferrata lanyard/set. I wrote more about this in my post Via Ferrata – how to prepare? Sturdy hiking boots with good grip, gloves, a small backpack, water, sun protection and a windproof jacket are also highly recommended.
When is the best time to hike the Via ferrata degli Alpini al col dei Bos?
The best time to tackle this route is from mid-June to mid-to-late September, when the trail is usually free of snow. It is essential to check the weather conditions before heading out.