Via Ferrata Formenton - Tofana di Dentro

A via ferrata of medium difficulty, which from Tofana di Mezzo reaches the incredible peak of Tofana di Dentro, then going down to Ra Valles and giving hikers one of the most evocative and magnificent views of the Ampezzo Valley. The route also includes some locations connected to the First World War, providing first-hand experience of the historic episodes involving the Dolomites.

From the centre of Cortina, head towards the Freccia nel Cielo cableway, alongside the Olympic Ice Stadium, where you can leave your vehicle in a large car park. From here, take the cable car that brings you first to Col Drusciè, then to Ra Valles, and lastly to the top station of Cima Tofana at 3,244 m, where you can revel in the truly evocative panorama, with an unparalleled view over Cortina.

From the cable car’s top station, head towards the path leading to the summit of Tofana di Mezzo; at the junction, about 10 minutes after having set off, follow the signs for Ferrata Formenton. The via ferrata begins with a downhill section, and then alternates between long sequences of ledges and horizontal traverses with a moderate degree of exposure until you reach the saddle, Forcella della Tofana. 

From here, you can descend towards the mountain lodge Rifugio Giussani or ascend towards the summit of Tofana di Dentro. You will climb across ramps, overhangs and ledges; the last part of the route is hallmarked by sections with a degree of exposure, on the rock’s ridge line, while other parts are minimally exposed. About one and a half hours after starting the via ferrata, you will reach the summit cross, at a height of 3,238 m, offering breath-taking views and some unusual perspectives: you can admire Croda Rossa d’Ampezzo from above on one side, while on the other there are Antelao, Pelmo, Croda da Lago and the Lastoi de Formin group, but also the Ampezzo Valley seen from above, and mounts Lagazuoi and Marmolada.

To complete the route, go down the fairly steep scree slope until you reach the bivouac named Bivacco degli Alpini, built to provide shelter in case of bad weather. Carry on downhill: on the way, you will see some remains dating back to the First World War. Continue until you reach the intersection with track n° 407 that brings you to Ra Valles, where the circular route ends. Once you have reached the cable car, you could stop at the venue Capanna Ra Valles, whose terrace provides an enchanting view.

Go back down using the same cable car that you took coming up and return to the car park.