FreeWheeling Dolomites

ski, climbing, via ferrata and guided tours in the dolomites

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This ski safari is an adventurous 4 days plan.

This ski safari off-piste is a 4-day proposal and, compared to our “Freeride Ski Safari Dolomites“, it is a bit more in between freeride and ski touring: Every day we will use the skins for a relatively short ascent. This will give us access to some long and wilde off-piste runs in the Dolomites. The itinerary is circular, starting and ending at the San Pellegrino Pass. The places we will visit are amazing: Val di Fassa, Sella and Marmolada. As always, it’s just a suggestion that will be shaped on your request!

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SKI SAFARI OFF-PISTE VS FREERIDE SKI SAFARI

This proposal is based on the idea that a little bit of skinning can give the privilege of access to wild areas where skiers can find untracked snow and more adventure: this plan is between freeride and ski touring because even if skinning is required, the ascents are still short while the descents are long. For this purpose We will use the lifts and ski in the resort. The freeride ski safari is more resort based and the use of the skins is optional. For a third  idea of off-piste dolomites week please read here!

CUSTOM-BUILT PLAN

As usual, this is an example of a tour: depending on your requirements, we will provide you with a customized plan, where the duration as well as the daily program may differ from what is written below.

HIGHTLIGHTS

  • 2 nights mountain refugios and 1 night hotel during the tour.
  • Use of skins and lifts.
  • Wild ski safari off-piste.
  • A flexible plan, depending on the weather, snow condition and fit level.

ALL-INCLUSIVE

For the tours with Refugio’s overnight stay we suggest the chose the All-Inclusive: the price includes, in addition to the guide service, the accommodation during the tour, dinner and breakfast. The night before the tour and the last night are not included, in any case, we will help you find and book the best solution for you. Price details are here: “prices”.

EQUIPMENT AND LUGGAGE TRANSFER

In addition to the avalanche safety equipment (the rental of which is included in the price), you will need wide skis, skins and touring boots. We will help you with the rental if needed. You can choose to carry your equipment on a backpack (see what to bring) or choose the luggage transfer service (see the price list).

YOUR GUIDE

The ski safari off-piste is carried out by a mountain guide  UIAGM/IFMGA certified. This is the most valuable qualification for a guide in Italy and all over the world. Besides, Freedolomites guides most definitely sport the best knowledge and will guarantee your safety and your fun.

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Program

4 days ski safari off-piste

DAY 0: ARRIVAL IN THE DOLOMITES!

SAN PELLEGRINO PASS.

The San Pellegrino Pass is a mountain passage in the Dolomites between two valleys, you can get here by renting a car or by public transfer, from both sides. If you land in Verona or Milan airport, you’ll get here by passing the city of Trento and going up the Fiemme Valley. From Venice, it’s more convenient to go through the town of Agordo and reach San Pellegrino through the Biois Valley. San Pellegrino is a ski resort that belongs to the Dolomiti Superski, but it isn’t connected by ski lifts to the Fassa Valley and the main resort. We will make the connection ourselves!
Dinner and night at Hotel.

A lot of snow above San Pellegrino Pass during the ascent to Selle Pass.

DAY 1: BEGINNING OF OUR SKI SAFARI OFF-PISTE!

CROSSING OVER THE RIDGE TO FASSA VALLEY.

The San Pellegrino ski area has lifts on both sides of the pass, our main goal today is to cross the ridge from the south and descend the other side of the ridge. Before doing that, if the snow conditions are good, we will do a great detour to the Col Margherita cable car and tackle a freeride run with 0 approach. This run is a classic of San Pellegrino, it goes down the steepest side of the mountain, below the cable car. This will be a 650 meter descent, a great way to start the day.
After that we go to the sunny side and from the top of the chairlift we start our ascent to the Selle Pass. The climb takes less than 2 hours, the slope is gentle and the view is amazing! Once we reach the saddle, we can take a break, switch from touring to ski mode and start a long and wild descent. This plan has 2 options at this point: one is to ski in the resort and reach a refugio, the second is to put the skins again and reach another refugio: a cozy accommodation on an unbelievable beautiful place, far away from the groomed slopes. The choice will be made after a conversation with you during the planning process.
Dinner and night at Refugio.

The landscape of Vallaccia Valley, with Vallaccia Refugio in the middle of the picture.

DAY 2: A REMOTE OFF-PISTE DOLOMITES PLACE.

FROM CIAMPAC TO SELLA MASSIF.

If we spent the night before at the Ciampac Refugio, in the resort, we are already at the base of the Forcia Neigra, the saddle we have to climb. On the contrary, today’s ski safari starts with a nice off-piste descent and some resort skiing to get there. Today’s ascent is short: from the bottom of the lift we put on our skins and after 45 minutes of turns we reach this small panoramic fork. The descent from here requires good snow conditions and good technical skills: the first part can be exposed to avalanches and conditions must be carefully assessed, the second part is a forest ski that is great fun but requires sharp turns and good quads! Once out of the woods, this 1000 meter descent is not over yet: we follow a gravel road for a long time until we get back to the resort.
The skiers might deserve a lunch break now, and after that we still have to ski on-piste to reach the next Refugio. The Refugio is finally reached by a short car transfer, but if we are very fast and strong we can get there directly by skiing another off-piste run called Lasties Valley (here’s the description, chapter 2)from the top of the Pordoi cable car. Not bad for the second day of our ski safari off-piste!
Dinner and night at Refugio.
FORCIA NEIGRA FEATURES:
Ascent: 250 meters.
Descent: 1000 meters.
Inclination: max 40°.
LASTIES FEATURES:
Ascent: 0 meters.
Descent: 1100 meters.
Inclination: max 35°.

Skier is enjoying the snow from Selle pass, in San Pellegrino ski area.

DAY 3: THE OFF-PISTE SKI SAFARI GOES IN SELLA MASSIF.

THE MASTER PIECE OF OFF-PISTE IN THE DOLOMITES: SELLA MASSIF.

We’ve talked about freeriding in the Sella massif in almost all the pages of the freeride section: on this mountain there is a huge amount of runs and some of them are described in the intermediate and advanced pages. You can also read about the Sella Massif on day 4 of the “Freeride Ski Safari” and on day 6 of the “Off-Piste Week Hotel Based“. As you can read, the most famous itinerary is the Mezdi Valley, which can also be done without skins. Some other great itineraries are described on the linked pages, here we want to introduce another one: Culea Valley. This run is located in one of the most beautiful and wild areas of the massif: similar to Setus Valley in terms of the ascent, but a little easier in terms of the descent. As in Setus, the ascent is long but mostly flat, and the descent is through a narrow valley and then, after a traverse, through a second, wider valley. There are at least 2 harder detours possible here.
Dinner and night at hotel.
VAL CULEA FEATURES:
Ascent: 350 meters.
Descent: 1050 meters.
Inclination: max 40°.

A couloir in Sella Massif, full of snow: off-piste Dolomites.

DAY 4: LAST DAY OF OFF-PISTE SKI SAFARI.

ANOTHER MUST TO DO: MARMOLADA OFF-PISTE.

From the Pordoi Pass, where we spent the last night, we ski towards the Marmolada, which, like the Sella Massif, is another great off-piste area in the Dolomites. The top of the Marmolada is reached by a cable car with 3 stations, from here we can ski a number of different itineraries without ascents. Ideally, to close our circuit, we want to do one of the most demanding and long itineraries of the area: The Marmolada Saddle Traverse from North to South. This itinerary is described here and includes a long descent along the glacier and a technical ascent to the saddle. Once we reach the small fork, we start this amazing, sunny side, descent that requires a good timing when the sun has softened the snow. At the end of the descent we will ski on the same gravel road as on day 2. Once back at the lift, we will continue on the resort towards the Fassa Valley to reach Pozza di Fassa. From Pozza a bus or private transfer will take us back to the starting point. Alternatively, if the conditions aren’t good enough for the Marmolada saddle, we can skip the ascent and ski for a long time on the north side of the Marmolada, finishing at Villa Maria, as already described here, on day 4. From Villa Maria it’s the same route to Pozza di Fassa.

MARMOLADA SADDLE FEATURES:

Ascent: 400 meters.
Descent: 1950 meters.
Gradient: max 35°/40°.

Two skiers are carrying the skis on their back, while ascending the saddle Marmolada. Marmolada off-piste.

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The ski touring traverse of the Dolomites, a hut to hut tour.

The Dolomites are a unique mountain range with a special shape: the peaks are often inaccessible to skiing, while an intricate network of valleys and narrow accesses surround the famous rock towers and spires, making this terrain a fascinating white labyrinth. In our opinion, it is therefore the ski traverse that is the most spectacular way to appreciate the Dolomites in winter. With this 7-day ski-touring crossing, we want to take you on an original and exciting exploration of this vast area. Starting from Passo Rolle in Trentino, we will cross three regions and end up in South Tyrol. This crossing will be characterised by unique landscapes, beautiful skiing, cosy managed refuges where you can sleep and will end only after crossing, on skis, the famous Braies lake, completely frozen of course!

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CUSTOMISED PLAN

The Dolomite Traverse we present here is an itinerary that can be modified to better adapt to the availability in the mountain refugi and above all to your needs, desires, and abilities. We will then plan a tailor-made itinerary for you. The 7-day duration can also be shortened or extended according to your availability.

ALL-INCLUSIVE

In the ALL-INCLUSIVE formula, we think about everything: the offer includes the accommodation during the tour. Even so, our desire is to satisfied your personal needs and resolve any logistic issues, so don’t hesitate to write us, we will adapt the plan to your requests as well as  finding the best accommodation the night before and the last night of the tour if needed. 

EQUIPMENT

The mountain guides will provide the avalanche transceiver kit, shovel and probe free of charge if required. The equipment of skis, skins, boots is required and can be rented in the shop on site (please indicate this by email during registration). It’s recommended to wear breathable fabrics and to dress in layers: see here what to bring).

YOUR MOUNTAIN GUIDE

Our climbing activities are carried out by a mountain guide within UIAGM/IFMGA certified. Local mountain guides most definitely sport the best knowledge and will guarantee your safety and your fun.

WHEN

From the first week of February to the first week of April

 

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Program

Dolomite traverse day by day

DAY 1: the best ski touring traverse start

SAN MARTINO DI CASTROZZA – PASSO ROLLE

On the first day, we set off from Passo Rolle, with fresh energy we tackle the long tour that will take us up to Passo del Mulaz. From here the ones who are more daring, can continue and reach the 2906 metres of the summit of Mount Mulaz. Now a long and wonderful descent awaits us, crossing the Val di Focobon until we reach the Falcade ski lifts. With a few lifts and a nice descent we will arrive at the San Pellegrino Pass, here thanks to the snowmobile of the refuge we will comfortably arrive at the Fuciade refuge, one of the most welcoming refuges in the Dolomites where an excellent dinner awaits us.

DIFFICULTY: BS, S2-S3

GAP: ascent 650/950 metres, descent 1700 metres.

medium backcountry skituring, Mulaz summit

DAY 2: one of the most beautiful places in the Dolomites

FUCIADE REFUGE – PRINCE PASS

We reluctantly leave the enchanting Fuciade refuge and climb the sunny slopes above until we reach the Selle Pass. At this point a new spectacular descent awaits us, which will only end at the Pozza di Fassa lifts. Here a new lift will bring us back up to altitude from where we will then climb, surrounded by a solitary environment of rare beauty, to the Rifugio Principe. The refuge is located at the homonymous pass in the heart of the Catinaccio, perhaps one of the most famous places in the Dolomites, very popular in summer but lonely in winter.

DIFFICULTY: MSA, S2

GAP: ascent 950 metres, descent 1100 metres.

Fuciade hut, during the dolomites backcountry ski traverse

DAY 3: return to civilisation…for a while

PRINCE’S PASS REFUGE – SELLA PASS

Today the crossing of the Catinaccio group awaits us, passing through the Forcella Antermoia. A short but demanding ascent takes us to a small panoramic pass surrounded by high vertical walls; here we can make a small diversions to add another beautiful peak to our list; otherwise, we descend directly to the frozen Antermoia lake and the refuge of the same name. Once we have put on our skins again we will soon reach a new pass from which a long and exciting descent will take us to Campitello di Fassa. Now all that remains is to take a lift and climb up to Passo Sella where a new, enchanting refuge awaits us.

DIFFICULTY: BS, S2-S3

GAP: ascent 400 metres, descent 1100 metres.

Catinaccio, Passo Antermoia, Dolomites.

DAY 4: the sasolungo ski touring crossing

VALENTINI REFUGE – COL RAISER

The Sassolungo is the symbolic mountain of Val Gardena: today we will enter this labyrinth of spires and towers and cross the entire group. From our refuge a beautiful sunny ascent takes us to the Demez pass, from here we will follow a beautiful descent leaving the Vicenza refuge behind us and continue to the village of Santa Cristina. Now we go up again to reach Col Raiser, another privileged panoramic point.

DIFFICULTY: BS, S2

GAP: ascent 450 metres, descent 1050 metres.

Val Gardena, forcella Demez, just below the hugerocks wall of Sassolungo

DAY 5: crossing a huge Dolomites’ plateau

COL RAISER – LA VALLE

The Dolomite group that we will cross today is the Puez: these peaks separate Val Gardena from Val Badia, from our refuge we begin a climb in a sunny and majestic environment that will take us to the small Roa pass, thanks to which we can look out over the northern slopes that descend on the opposite side. The snow here is almost always of excellent quality, so much so that once we reach the end we already want to return to the top! Instead from Longiarù we take a taxi to the small village of La Valle where we sleep in a hotel.

DIFFICULTY: BSA, S2-S3

GAP: Ascent 650 metres, descent 1300 metres.

Marmolada, Forcella Vernel, Dolomites.

DAY 6: entering in the Fannes- Sennes park

CIURNADU – SENNES

Today we will cross the Fanes valley, about this valley many legends have been handed down for centuries, in fact it is a fame more than deserved given the mysterious beauty of these landscapes. The valley is enclosed by high and very wild mountains, we will pass by the Lavarella refuge, open also in winter it is very pleasant to stop for a hot meal. We continue our descent and then climb up to the small Sennes Refuge, immersed in the white of the snow. This magic place is also the “star” of our dedicated tour.

DIFFICULTY: MS, S2

GAP: ascent 900 metres, descent 950 metres.

Fannes Sennes natural park

DAY 7: last day of our great backcountry ski traverse

SENNES – BRAIES

The last day is certainly a spectacular one: today too we will climb to a pass that marks the watershed between two very different areas, leaving Val Badia to end our tour in Val Pusteria. For those who still have energy to spare, it is possible to combine the short ascent to the fork with a summit of great satisfaction but also of high commitment. From the pass we enjoy a varied and non-trivial descent. The descent finally ends at the frozen lake of Braies, now very famous and perhaps too busy in the summer. Fortunately, it is winter and the memory of the lake with the freshly skied mountains behind it will remain indelibly in our memory.

We take a taxi to our hotel in Val Badia for some well-deserved refreshments and a sauna.

DIFFICULTY: BS, S2-S3

GAP: Ascent 400 metres, descent 1200 metres.

crossing the frozen Braies lake, on the last day of the trip

Comments

Your voice

Echoo
Fabrizio put together an amazing itinerary for my first ski tour. It was challenging enough but I didn’t feel completely wiped out after the first day. The area is absolutely beautiful and the hut experience was a pleasure, with good company from other guests and great food. He even found good snow for us to ski, which considering the conditions we found was really impressive! 100% recommend and will come back.
Regina J.
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Dolomites ski mountaineering: challenging backcountry ski touring

When the mountain is dressed in white and enveloped in fascinating silence and breathtaking views, the best way to enter this paradise is to push your skis, at a slow and rhythmic pace, on the white mantle. The ascent flows pleasantly, letting yourself be carried away by the power of the views that follow one another; leaving the line of your curves on the descent is the icing on the cake. This page presents proposals for “difficult” backcountry ski-touring. What characterises these itineraries are height differences of over 1200 metres and technical difficulties which require a good mastery of skis. We are certainly not talking about extreme skiing, what we want you to discover during the difficult backcountry ski touring, are the great ascents to the 3000 metres of the Dolomites and beyond!

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CUSTOMISED PLAN

Trusting a local IFMGA/UIAGM guide living among these mountains means putting together the perfect, customized plan, and just enjoying your Dolomites ski touring, avoiding unpleasant hiccups.
Choosing us means being with local guides, always up-to-date on the best choices.

EQUIPMENT

The ARTVA probe and shovel are provided by us for free as needed. Personal equipment (skies, Skins, boots) are required. It’s possible to rent them in the place, so if you need, let us know before! It’s recommended to wear breathable fabrics and to dress in layers: see here what to bring.

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Program

A list of “intermediate” tours.

MARMOLADA: a ski tour just in front of the queen south face

CIMA LA BANCA (2875 metres).

This peak, which can be reached and skied from the top, offers a privileged terrace on one of the most impressive walls of the Dolomites, the south face of the Marmolada.  In addition to this exceptional panorama, the environment and the slopes it offers will make this excursion an unforgettable memory.

DIFFICULTY: BSA, S3-S4

GAP: ascent, descent 1400 metres.

Dolomites ski mountaineering: Marmolada, Ombretola.

MARMOLADA: ski mountaineering to the Dolomites highest peak

PUNTA PENIA 3343 metres.

With its 3343 metres, Punta Penia is the highest peak of the Marmolada and therefore of the Dolomites. The length of the itinerary and the high altitude may frighten some people, but the satisfaction of reaching the summit cross is an irresistible attraction for many.

DIFFICULTY: OSA, S3

GAP: ascent and descent 1300 metres.

the wide slopes of Marmolada north face after a challenging backcountry ski touring

VAL BADIA: a long and unique tour

PIZ DE LAVARELLA (3055 metres)

This splendid 3000m peak dominates Val Badia with its steep western slope, while the eastern slope is the site of our ascent, which involves low technical difficulties, a long climb and a landscape of unique beauty through Val di Fanes. The itinerary can also be combined with another descent in order to make a wonderful traverse.

DIFFICULTY: OSA, S2-S3

GAP: ascent and descent 1300 metres.

Ski-touring, Lavarella, Val di Fanes, Dolomites.

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO: a really challenging peak

ANTELAO (3264 metres)

Antelao is one of the most recognisable and imposing of the Dolomite giants: in fact, its pyramid shape towers above all others and is recognisable from every corner of the Dolomites. Skiing this peak is a dream within reach of well-trained and technically prepared people.

DIFFICULTY: OSA, S3-S4

GAP: Ascent 2030 metres, descent 2030 metres.

backcountry ski tours: Cortina d'Ampezzo, Antelao, Dolomites.

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO: the most famous 3000 peak of Cortina

TOFANA DI ROZES (3225 metres).

The Tofana di Rozes is certainly one of the most beautiful 3000 m peaks in the Dolomites for ski-touring. In fact, it is possible to ski directly from the summit, without encountering extreme technical difficulties but slopes with a perfect inclination for skiing!

DIFFICULTY: OSA, S3

GAP: Ascent and descent 1200 metres.

Cortina d' Ampezzo, Tofana, almost at Giussani hut

ZOLDANA VALLEY: a mountaineering experience

PELMO (3168 metres)

Pelmo is also known as the Throne of God, in fact the shape is that of a comfortable armchair, with steep walls on the north side and very pleasant slopes from a skiing point of view. What characterises this climb, however, is a section of vertical wall that can be overcome by abseiling on the descent, but on the ascent needs to be climbed with a fourth degree of difficulty.

DIFFICULTY: OSA, S4

GAP: ascent and descent 1750 metres.

Val Zoldana, Pelmo, Dolomites.

VAL BADIA: a wild paradise

CIMA PUEZ (2913 metres) traverse.

This itinerary can be considered a classic high level ski-touring route, the panoramic peak is reached through the beautiful and not difficult D’Antersass valley. Having reached the summit, instead of retracing our steps, we head to the opposite side to descend the north couloir, which presents rather serious technical difficulties.

DIFFICULTY: OSA, S3-s4

LEVEL: ascent, descent 1400 metres.

gran paradiso ski tour

Comments

Your voice

Echoo
Where to begin? Fabrizio is an absolute professional as he took us on a beyond expectation adventure. He kept us safe, explained his decisions and taught us new skills that we will take advantage of on our own backcountry adventures. Fabrizio is friendly, easy to talk to, and his English is excellent. Learning about the history and geology of the region in which we were skiing was an added treat. Grazie mille Fabrizio!
Joseph Spampinato
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Backcountry dolomites ski touring intermediate level.

When the mountain is dressed in white and enveloped in fascinating silence and breathtaking views, the best way to enter this paradise is to push your skis, at a slow and rhythmic pace, on the white mantle. The ascent flows pleasantly, letting yourself be carried away by the power of the views that follow one another; leaving the line of your curves on the descent is the icing on the cake. This page presents proposals for “intermediate” backcountry ski touring. These itineraries are characterised by a difference in altitude of between 800 and 1200 metres and moderate technical difficulties, both uphill and downhill. Our aim, therefore, is to accompany you on these trips and ensure that you have fun while discovering breathtaking views and descents on good snow, perhaps with few challenging sections.

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Why Free Dolomites

Trusting a local IFMGA/UIAGM guide living among these mountains means putting together the perfect, customized plan, and just enjoying your Dolomites ski touring, avoiding unpleasant hiccups.
Choosing us means being with local guides, always up-to-date on the best choices.

group tours

In addition to the private tours, we organize group tours. On our calendar you can book our group tours and share the guided tour with other people.

Equipment

The ARTVA probe and shovel are provided by us for free as needed. Personal equipment (skies, Skins, boots) are required. It’s possible to rent them in the place, so if you need, let us know before! It’s recommended to wear breathable fabrics and to dress in layers: see here what to bring).

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Program

A list of “intermediate” tours.

PASSO SAN PELLEGRINO – FALCADE: a classic Dolomites ski touring 

PASSO DELLE CIRELLE – CIMA CADINE (2885 metres).

The climb takes place along the sunny slopes of the south side of the S. Pellegrino pass. We easily climb up to the Passo delle Cirelle, which is a popular route, then we continue with increasing difficulty towards this beautiful and panoramic peak, from which an exciting descent awaits us.

DIFFICULTY: BSA, S3

GAP: ascent, descent 1050 metres.

backcountry skiing and ski touring in the Dolomites

MARMOLADA: a hidden saddle allows a great traverse 

FORCELLA MARMOLADA – TRAVERSE (2896 metres)

This wonderful traverse combines the majestic environment of the Marmolada glacier with a sunny descent to Val Contrin. The crossing of the pass requires some mountaineering familiarity and often a small rope descent is necessary. The return journey is by taxi or public transport.

DIFFICULTY: BSA, S3

GAP: ascent 400 metres descent 1200 metres.

Ski-touring, Marmolada, Forcella Vernel Dolomites.

FASSA VALLEY – POZZA DI FASSA: the most beautiful view…

SASSO DELLE 11 (2551 metres)

This excursion takes us to the top of one of the most panoramic peaks in the Val di Fassa. Fortunately, the terrain is never difficult up to the highest point and the slopes are ideal for skitouring. This makes it a highly recommended excursion throughout the winter.

DIFFICULTY: MSA, S2

GAP: ascent and descent 1150 metres.

grand dolomite skitour 98

VAL BADIA – VAL GARDENA: searching for the best snow

SAS CIAMPAC (2667 metres)

The itinerary that we propose includes an ascent in a very varied and sunny environment, with a descent that alternates between stretches of pure enthusiasm on almost always excellent snow, and stretches where it is not easy to guess the right passage. Finally we enter the spectacular Vallunga valley which takes us to Selva di Val Gardena. The return to Colfosco is by lift.

DIFFICULTY: BS, S3

GAP: ascent 700 metres, descent 1050 metres.

sas ciampac 6

VAL GARDENA – SELVA DI VAL GARDENA: a ski tour varied and interesting

COL TORONN (2655 metres).

This itinerary climbs up the beautiful and wide Val Chedul to a pass, after which the excursion continues without great difficulty to the splendid summit.

DIFFICULTY: BS, S2

GAP: ascent and descent 1050 metres.

sas ciampac 17

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO – CRODA ROSSA: just below the red wall…

FORCELLA COLFIEDO, traverse (2721 metres)

This climb takes us through a long, relaxing stretch of woodland, before we emerge, as if by magic, into a high mountain environment. Surrounded by high walls, we zip along until we reach the pass. From here an incredible descent on the opposite side will take us back to the valley.

DIFFICULTY: BS, S3

GAP: ascent and descent 1200 metres.

classic saddle in Croda Rossa di Sesto

FALCADE – VALLES PASS: a great skiable summit

MULAZ TRAVERSE (2906 metres).

A long itinerary which, however, if tackled in the right moment, will turn into a long and memorable descent to the village of Falcade. In fact, this traverse involves climbing to the summit from Passo Valles or Passo Rolle. The greatest difficulties, though never excessive, are found in the last few metres before touching this fascinating summit. Once down in Falcade, we return to the car park by taxi.

DIFFICULTY: BSA, S2

GAP: ascent 1250, descent 1812 metres.

medium backcountry skituring, Mulaz summit

MARMOLADA – SOTTOGUDA: isolated and beautiful peak

MOUNT PEZZA

This beautiful and isolated peak is a typically winter excursion. Gentle slopes take us up to Forcella Pianezze, from which the final slope stands out with its southern exposure, offering us snow that is usually firm. The beautiful final ridge also gives us intense emotions.

DIFFICULTY: MSA, S3

GAP: ascent and descent 950 metres.

after a long tour in Marmolada, Val d'Ombrettola

Comments

Your voice

Echoo
Went ski touring in the dolomites for two days with a guide (Thomas). We felt safe. The guide was reliable and flexible. Fabrizio who organised it was also professional and friendly. I would recommend this company.
Raphaël Tulkens
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Plan your trip and start to get ready

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Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

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Guided ski tours for beginners

When the mountain is dressed in white and enveloped in fascinating silence and breathtaking views, the best way to enter this paradise is to push your skis, at a slow and rhythmic pace, on the white mantle. The ascent flows pleasantly, letting yourself be carried away by the power of the views that follow one another; leaving the line of your curves on the descent is the icing on the cake. This page presents proposals for “easy” backcountry ski in the Dolomites. What characterises these itineraries are height differences of no more than 900 metres and moderate technical difficulties, both uphill and downhill. Our aim, therefore, is to accompany you on these trips and ensure that you have fun discovering breathtaking views and descents on good snow without the anxiety of exposure.

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CUSTOMISED PLAN

Contact us. We will ask you a few things and we’ll together come up with a customised programme.
1) We will suggest an activity package tailored around your experience and wishes.
2) Choosing us means being with local guides, always up-to-date on the best choices.

group tours

In addition to the private tours, we organize group tours. On our calendar you can book our group tours and share the guided tour with other people.

EQUIPMENT

The ARTVA probe and shovel are provided by us included in the price. Personal equipment (skies, Skins, boots) is required. It’s possible to rent them in the place, so if you need, let us know before!

It’s recommended to wear breathable fabrics and to dress in layers: see here what to bring).

your guide

Our climbing activities are carried out by a mountain guide within UIAGM/IFMGA certified. Local mountain guides most definitely sport the best knowledge and will guarantee your safety and your fun.

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Program

A list of “easy” tours.

PASSO SAN PELLEGRINO – FALCADE: easy ski touring across the Dolomites

LASTE PICOL (2697 metres) – POZZA DI FASSA (traverse)

The ascent is along the sunny slopes of the south side of the S. Pellegrino pass. We easily climb up to the Selle pass, from here a slightly steeper and more challenging slope takes us to this sharp peak. From here we can descend to the opposite side, where a long and exciting descent takes us to Pozza di Fassa. We then return to the pass by public transport.

DIFFICULTY: MS, S2

GAP: ascent 600-750 metres, descent 1300 metres.

guided ski trips: S. Pellegrino, Picol laste, Dolomites

VALLES PASS – VAL DI FIEMME: guided tour in a peaceful place

CIMA IURIBRUTTO (2697 metres)

Beautiful and panoramic excursion, accessible all winter long, its easy slopes are particularly suitable for beginners but also for days when the snowpack is unstable.

DIFFICULTY: MS, S2

GAP: ascent and descent 760 metres.

guided ski tours: Passo Valles, Iuribrutto, Dolomites.

GIAU PASS – SELVA DI CADORE: being like on the moon

MONDEVAL (2455 metres)

An excursion of exceptional scenic interest: after leaving the car behind, we take a few steps into an almost lunar environment, where the white rarely leaves room to the emergence of giant grey boulders. The summit offers us a priceless spectacle. The wide descent slope, facing north, almost always has excellent snow.

DIFFICULTY: MS, S2

GAP: ascent and descent 700 metres.

Passo Giau, Piz del Corf Dolomites.

SASSOLUNGO – VAL GARDENA: a wild corner of the Dolomites

FORCELLA SASSOLUNGO NORD (2681 metres)

This itinerary combines a short but rather technical climb with a very long descent in an exceptional environment. In fact, once we reach the Demez refuge, from the Sella pass, we find ourselves in the heart of the Sassolungo group, surrounded by immense and gloomy walls which, as well as making the environment so special, also preserve excellent quality snow. The return journey takes place from Santa Cristina using the ski lifts.

DIFFICULTY: BS, S2

GAP: ascent 350 metres, descent 900 metres.

Forcella Sassolungo nord, Gardena Valley, Dolomites.

ARABBA, LIVINALLONGO: ski trip starting from a medieval castle

MONTE SIEF (2424 metres).

Even the starting point of this excursion projects us into a fantastic world: an ancient medieval castle stands out beyond the peaks of the fir trees that surround and protect it. In a short time, we leave the edge of the forest and ascend what in summer are alpine pastures and in winter are slopes with an optimal inclination. The final ridge also offers beautiful views and intense emotions.

DIFFICULTY: MS, S2

GAP: ascent and descent 650 metres.

Backcountry ski Sas Ciampac, Badia Valley, Dolomites.

VAL BADIA – COLFOSCO: backcountry ski in the Puez-Odle park

COL DE LA SONNE’ (2633 metres).

This short and easy excursion allows us to explore the Puez-Odle plateau: once up here we will realise the vastness of this place, so different from the steep walls that are usually above us but today are below! The Col de la Sonnè is then a beautiful pyramid that invites us to climb it.

DIFFICULTY: MS, S2

GAP: Ascent and descent 700 metres.

Almost at the top of Sas Ciampac, Badia Valley,

MARMOLADA – SOTTOGUDA: the queen of the Dolomites

MOUNT PEZZA

This beautiful and isolated peak is a typically winter excursion. Gentle slopes take us up to Forcella Pianezze, from which the final shovel stands out with its southern exposure, offering us snow that is usually firm. The beautiful final ridge also gives us intense emotions.

DIFFICULTY: MSA, S3

GAP: ascent and descent 950 metres.

First turns from the top of Sas Ciampac

Comments

Your voice

Echoo
Fantastic day with Fabrizio! He knows every rock in the Dolomites and knows how to get the most out of the day despite the somewhat poor snow conditions. Absolutely recommended!
Olivier ten Hallers
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Hut to hut backcountry skiing in Fannes-Sennes park

The legends that have been handed down for centuries about the Fanes Valley certainly speak of a place whose mysterious charm is still irresistible today. Visiting this valley in winter is a privilege to be seized! In fact, the mountains surrounding the valley are a paradise for backcountry ski-touring and here we get some of the best hut to hut ski tours in the Dolomites: here, far from the ski lifts, some cosy alpine huts remain open all winter round and are a lucky base for the many excursions. On this page, we propose two plans: one is to spend two nights at the Lavarella refuge for an ambitious programme: 3 peaks in three days, with traverse itineraries. the second plan involves skiing from hut to hut: first night at Lavarella and the second night at Sennes hut; with this plan we will do an amazing circuit among the Fannes Dolomites.

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CUSTOMISED PLAN

The plans you’ll read down below are just two among a number of possibilities: we think that the right number of days to appreciate the Fannes Sennes park in winter is between 3 and 4: so please read the suggestion, they would be a good base in order to make an activity package tailored around your experience and wishes. If you are looking for a longer hut to hut skiing tour, have a look on our Dolomite traverse.

All-inclusive

In the ALL-INCLUSIVE formula, we think about everything, including accommodation and transfers; even so, our desire is to satisfied your personal needs and resolve any logistic issue, so don’t hesitate to write us, we will adapt the plan on your requests.

EQUIPMENT

The mountain guides will provide the avalanche transceiver kit, shovel and probe free of charge if required. The equipment of skis, skins, boots is required and can be rented in the shop on site (please indicate this by email during registration). It’s recommended to wear breathable fabrics and to dress in layers: see here what to bring.

your guide

Our climbing activities are carried out by a mountain guide within UIAGM/IFMGA certified. Local mountain guides most definitely sport the best knowledge and will guarantee your safety and your fun.

When

Suggested From end of January to beginning of April

This activity is spread in two options:

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Program

the Lavarella ski tour day by day

Day 1: a gully is the access to the Fannes-Sennes park

FALZAREGO PASS – LAVARELLA REFUGE

On the first day we set off from the Falzarego Pass and take the lift to the top of the Piccolo Lagazuoi. From here we start skiing immediately, tracing easy slopes under the impressive walls of Fanes and Cima Scotoni. When we arrive near a small frozen lake, we begin a steep ascent in a gully, which soon leads to Forcella Dl Lech. After changing sides, we climb up the beautiful slopes to the summit of Cima Scotoni.

At this point, all we have to do is take off our skins and enjoy the descent on snow that is almost always of excellent quality. The day reserves us another small climb and respective descent until the well-deserved refreshment at the Lavarella refuge.

DIFFICULTY: BSA, S2-S3

GAP: ascent 800 metres, descent 900 metres

entering in the Fannes valley

Day 2: Lavarella ski tour is the highlight of this tour

LAVARELLA REFUGE – PIZ DE LAVARELLA 3055 metres (traverse)

On this second day, the ascent to Piz de Lavarella awaits us: this splendid 3000m peak dominates Val Badia with its steep western slope, while our ascent route takes place on the eastern slope, with low technical difficulties, a long development and a landscape of unique beauty. Once we have reached the summit cross and put on our skis, we will head for the entrance to the Val Parom, which with its slopes will offer us unforgettable skiing until we reach the Lavarella refuge. You can find Lavarella tour description on the challenging list.

DIFFICULTY: OSA, S3

GAP: ascent 1000 metres, descent 1000 metres.

the cross at the top of Lavarella peak

Day 3: Piz Sant Antone is a challenging end of the tour

LAVARELLA REFUGE – PIZ DE SANT ANTONE (2655 metres) or Sasso delle dieci – LA VALLE

On the last day a short but demanding climb awaits us: in fact, once we have easily reached the Sant Antone pass, the last 200 steep metres to the summit await us. If this route is not possible, there is a great alternative: the ascent to Sasso delle Dieci. In this case, the total height difference exceeds 1000 metres, but it is definitely worth it! In both cases, we will finally overcome the pass to leave the enchanted Val di Fanes and return to the village of La Valle in Val Badia. From here we return by taxi to the Falzarego Pass.

DIFFICULTY: OSA or BSA, S2-S3

GAP: ascent 650 metres or 1200 metres, descent 1050 metres or 1300 metres.

Lavarella, Val di Fanes, Dolomites.
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Program

hut to hut ski touring proposal

Day 1: welcome to the Fannes-Sennes ski tour

FALZAREGO PASS – LAVARELLA REFUGE

the first day of this proposal is the same you can read on the previous skiing programme. The starting point is at Falzarego Pass and Piccolo Lagazuoi upper lift station. From here we start skiing immediately, tracing easy slopes under the impressive walls of Fanes and Cima Scotoni. When we arrive near a small frozen lake, we begin a steep ascent in a gully, which soon leads to Forcella Dl Lech. After changing sides, we climb up the beautiful slopes to the summit of Cima Scotoni. At this point, all we have to do is take off our skins and enjoy the descent on snow that is almost always of excellent quality. The day reserves us another small climb and respective descent until the well-deserved refreshment at the Lavarella refuge.

DIFFICULTY: BSA, S2-S3

GAP: ascent 800 metres, descent 900 metres

hut to hut ski touring in Fannes-Sennes park

Day 2: searching for the best powder snow

LAVARELLA HUT- SENNES REFUGE

Today we start losing few meters of altitude but soon we will put our skins up to start climbing toward Ciamin saddle. The slope is gentle at first but becomes steeper as we gain height. Once in sight of the fork, we have to make few tiring turns, in order to gain the highest point. Here the break is well-deserved, especially because what is expecting us is usually a tremendous down hill on good powder snow. At the end of the descend we will put the skins once again to reach by a nice trail to our next hut: the cousy Sennes hut. the refugi is located on a sunny place, surrounded by wild peaks, miles away from the civilisation…

DIFFICULTY: BS, S2

GAP: ascent 950 metres, descent 800 metres

not always the weather is the best, during hut to hut ski tours...

Day 3: hut to hut last great skiing day

SENNES REFUGE – CORTINA D’AMPEZZO

We start early in the morning, while the sun is already warming our bodies: today we climb up the east slopes above the hut in order to reach Sora Forno fork. Here the terrain is almost flat with huge boulders coming up from the white ocean. Once we pass the saddle we will ski down upon reaching a frozen little lake: this is the place where we have to put our skins again and start climbing toward another saddle, Cocodain fork. This was the last effort of the tour, now it will be just a long and beautiful downhill to Ponticello, passing through the famous Ra Stua rural farm.  From here a taxi transfer will take us back to the starting point in about 40 minutes. If the group is in a good shape and the condition of the snow are safe, we can make a different itinerary, climbing up the Piccola Croda Rossa peak by skies.

DIFFICULTY: BS, S2 or BSA s3

GAP: ascent 400 metres, descent 1000 metres or ascent 750, descent 1500 meters

 

last up hill meters before the saddle

Comments

Your voice

Echoo
We had a fantastic 2-weeks off-and-on ski touring with Fabrizio and Thomas, traversing the Fannes-Sennes-Braies national park (hut to hut), Freeriding when we had the snow for it, and a couple of day tours / overnights. Both Fabrizio and Thomas were incredibly helpful about all aspects of our trip, super knowledgeable, fun to be around and of course kept us safe up in the high mountains. They found us some great snow in a difficult season for the Dolomites, and picked out some excellent places to stay. I’ll be back for more and will use them again.NB: if you are in the area and have the chance to stay at Rifugio Fuciade and are not sure whether to do so, just do it. It’s superb!
Tom Breeze
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