Via Ferrata Adventures: On the Trail in the Brenta and Rosengarten Dolomites

Sunrise at Rifugio Alpe di Tires

The Italian Dolomites, with their jagged spires and dramatic rock faces, hold a special place in our heart and it was for another unforgettable adventure. This past trip, we embarked on a 2-week via ferrata journey that wound through the rugged Brenta and Rosengarten groups, culminating in a descent into the charming mountain city of Bolzano. It was an experience that pushed our limits, rewarded us with unparalleled views, and left us with a profound appreciation for these magnificent mountains.

A via ferrata (Italian for "iron path") is a protected climbing route built into a mountain. Imagine a blend of hiking and rock climbing, where cables are fixed to the rock, acting as a continuous handrail. You clip into the cable with special carabiners, ensuring your safety as you traverse ledges, ascend ladders, and navigate otherwise inaccessible terrain. It allows adventurous hikers to experience the thrill of mountaineering with a higher degree of security, opening up incredible routes that would otherwise require technical climbing gear and skills.

Forrest and I making our way up a via ferrata in the Italian Dolomites

Our journey began in the charming mountain town of Madonna di Campiglio, immediately bringing us deep into the heart of the Brenta Dolomites. Here, we tackled incredible ascents and traversed exposed ridges, soaking in panoramic views that stretched for miles, finding well-earned rest each night in cozy mountain huts.

Rifugio Alamonta, Brenta, Italy

After a short rest and resupply in Bolzano, we transitioned to the magical area of Rosengarten. This section of our adventure led us even higher, as we traversed breathtaking mountain peaks and intricate rock formations, spending our nights in more welcoming rifugios nestled within this stunning landscape, before finally descending back into Bolzano. This adventure was more than just a trip; it was an immersion into a world of raw beauty and thrilling climbs, with the unique hospitality of these high-alpine accommodations completing each day.

Rifugio Alpe di Tires, Rosengarten, Italy

I've got so many stories and photos from this trip that I can't wait to share! Over the next few posts, I'll be diving deeper into our journey and sharing experiences from the routes, mountain huts, and the remarkable moments our time in the Dolomites. Stay tuned for a closer look at our epic mountain adventure!