Dancing above the abyss

The heart beats faster and faster. Adrenaline shoots through the veins. The abyss stretches out below me while above mighty cliffs peer towards the sky. Click, clack – the carabiner is hooked in. And off you go on the via ferrata. Walking along the steel cable is becoming increasingly popular. We have scouted out the most beautiful routes in South Tyrol for you. There is something for everyone: beginners and professionals. Thrills guaranteed!

Difficulty level

Via ferrata Furcela de Saslonch

Val Gardena/ Alpe de Siusi 

In the shadow of the mighty Sassolungo, the via ferrata Furcela de Saslonch, at 2,685 meters above sea level, was only set up in autumn of 2021. Unlike many via ferratas, where the summit is the goal, here the entire route offers fascinating experiences. Right next to the Forcella del Sassolungo, this scenically unique via ferrata leads over ramps made of rock, ledges, an exposed jagged ridge and an airy suspension bridge up to the summit ridge. Always in view: the Sassolungo massif and the Cinque Dita peak.

Via ferrata Heini Holzer
Merano & surroundings 

Named after the well-known South Tyrolean mountaineer Heini Holzer from Scena, this via ferrata route offers a wonderful view of the Val Sarentino Alps, the Ivigna peak and the surrounding mountain ranges. Starting at the entrance wall, the path initially leads steeply upwards and over the Cresta degi spiriti and the Spigolo dell’angelo. The entire route is secured with a steel cable. Once at the top, it only takes 20 minutes to reach the summit of the great Ivigna.

Via Ferrata Roda di Vael
Bolzano & surroundings 

This technically rather easy via ferrata is suitable for beginners and starts at the Paolina hut at 2,125 meters above sea level. From there it goes first over the Hirzelsteig and then on to the Passo del Vajolon. This is where the actual via ferrata starts. You can enjoy the overwhelming panorama surrounding you during the entire ascent to the Roda di Vael summit. A special highlight: the descent is either via the Rotwand hut or via the challenging via ferrata Masarè.

Via Ferrata Knott
Val Venosta Valley

The via ferrata “Knott” is ideal for beginners and families and is located near the Unterstell mountain station in Naturno. Easily accessible from the cable car, you will find numerous via ferrata routes with easy passages, some exposed routes and even technically demanding sections. Both beginners and advanced learners can get their money’s worth. Once at the top, the viewing platform offers a unique panoramic view of the Merano valley basin all the way to the Ortler group.

Via ferrata Furcia Rossa
Val Pusteria/Val Badia

This tour follows traces of WWI along the south-west flank of the Furcia Rossa. From the Capanna Alpina hut, you can reach the start of the via ferrata via the Col de Lòcia. From here it goes up to the summit of Furcia Rossa III, but be aware that some passages are very demanding. In addition to the bench made of cannon wheels, a magnificent panoramic view of the Tofane massif awaits you at 2,760 meters above sea level – simply breathtaking.

Via ferrata Paternkofel – Innerkofler
Tre Cime 

With this via ferrata even the way you get started is truly unique. From Val Fiscalina, head in the direction of the Drei Zinnen hut through the old Patern tunnel, which dates back to the First World War. Here, rock windows allow for a first glimpse of the surrounding mountains. It continues over a gorge over to the Gamsscharte and then over steep rocky steps it leads you up to the summit cross. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with a magnificent view of the unique Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

Via ferrata Sass Rigais
Valle Isarco 

This moderately difficult tour starts at the Zanser Alm car park and heads in the direction of the Geisleralm hut. Once there, it leads you along the Adolf-Munkel-Weg path and over numerous switchbacks in the direction of the Forcella de Mesdì. After that, the route continues along a steep wall. Then, over partially exposed passages, it leads you to the summit of Sass Rigais at over 3,000 meters above sea level.