Scrambles in The Dolomites
Climbing Via Ferratas in the Dolomites, Italy

The Via Ferrata in Italy

Considered the birthplace of alpine climbing over 100 years ago, the Dolomites are perhaps the most beautiful mountain range in Europe. World-class vertical relief towers over medieval landscapes making this range a universal destination for all mountain enthusiasts - from serious alpinists to day hikers.

The Via Ferrata literally means "iron road" in Italian and represents an extensive network of fixed iron cables that run throughout the high limestone peaks of the Dolomites in Northern Italy. The Via Ferrata was originally built during World War I to allow Italian soldiers a means to move over exposed mountainsides and along knife-edge ridges to guard the Italian / Austrian border.

Since the first war, the Via Ferrata iron cables have been maintained and expanded throughout the region by the Alpine Club of Italy. Today, the Via Ferrata climbs and scrambles have become a unique mountain adventure sport, a signatory to the Italian Dolomites.

Via Ferrata climbing requires less equipment than rock climbing but more than hiking. Your trip includes the helmets, harnesses and Via Ferrata climbing gear necessary for this expedition. For strong hikers and aspiring climbers who want to experience alpine mountaineering with a great amount of security and safety, Via Ferrata climbing is a must!