Climbing in the heart of the Dolomites
Mountain climbing in the Italian Alps becomes an unforgettable adventure
The Dolomites in the heart of South Tyrol are amongst the most famous and most beautiful mountains in the world. They include spectacular peaks like Sassolungo (3181 m), the Sas Rigais (3025 m) and the Sella towers, which soar above Selva.
The name "Dolomites" comes from the French scientist Déodat de Dolomieu, who was the first person to analyse the chemical-mineralogical content of the rock in 1791.
The towers of white rock, which rose as coral reefs in the tropical sea millions of years ago, have a very special geological composition. Today they rise into the sky as strange rock formations.
Expert rock climbers will discover that this is an ideal climbing area. The Dolomites of the Val Gardena are one of the most famous climbing areas of the world. From well-used, popular classics, well-secured sport climbing walls, to terrifying adventure routes, there are challenges for every level of climber.
Climbing excursions in the Dolomites
Alpine climbing has a long and glorious history in the Val Gardena. Famous mountaineers scaled the Dolomites in the past and the tradition continues today. One of them was Paul Grohmann from Vienna (1838-1908), who loved these mountains and was the first person to climb the Sassolungo.
Luis Trenker, the well-known mountaineer, actor and director was born in Ortisei. He showed his love of this area and contributed in making it world famous through his films and books.
The Dolomites: the most beautiful mountains in the world
Val Gardena in the Dolomites is one of the best and most famous climbing areas in the world.
In this wonderful setting, climbers from all over the world will find a perfect place to enjoy their adventure on the rocks. The area offers vertical walls, impressive routes, easy alpine paths, but also more challenging routes created to appreciate the majestic limestone mountains. In other words, for each level of experience there is a possibility and each climber will be able to find what they need for their skill challenges.
The Val Gardena valley is nestled between large vertical walls, which rise up to provide this area with a wonderful amusement park for climbers.
Very important: To ensure your safety, we recommend that you hire an alpine guide to find the best routes. We will be pleased to provide information about the possibilities on offer so that you can enjoy your days in the mountains.
The best climbing routes, recommended itineraries:
Plan de Gralba-Cansla Traumpfeiler:
One of the most famous sport climbing areas in South Tyrol, known for the great rock cliffs and some tricky routes; the level of difficulty of the more than 50 routes is from 5b to 8a.
Grohmannspitze - Dimai - Führe - The south wall
The most popular route to climb the highest peak of the Val Gardena with a 4th level of difficulty. The peak is only slightly lower than the Sassolungo.
La Cava - The old quarry - Val Gardena
La Cava is the name of an old quarry with about 35 bolted climbing routes, created in the ‘60s by the “Los Catores” climbing group. Easy to climb.
Passo Gardena
Frea – The Sella
These climbing routes in various levels of difficulty on solid dolomite rock are highly appreciated. This wall is one of the most beautiful in the Dolomites.