Via Ferrata René De Pol
Description
A relatively simple hike on old war paths. About halfway up, the route is secured with steel cables. The terrain is exposed, easily walkable (but dangerous if crowded, also due to potential rockfall). The final part is the same as the descent route and is steep and unsecured. In fog or heavy rain, this route becomes particularly hazardous. In early summer, the north-facing side may still be covered with hard snow (slip risk!). For this reason, a good sense of direction is essential. No potable water is available along the route.
Access & starting point
From Dobbiaco in Val Pusteria, take the Landro Valley road, pass Carbonin, arrive at Cimbanché, and continue to the Ospitale Hotel (1475 m, parking available on the roadside below the hotel).
Approach
From Ospitale (trail sign no. 208), follow the cycling path toward Dobbiaco for about 1 km. Important: Before the second wooden bridge, turn right (no signage!). Enter the forest and climb quickly (follow red markers). At about 1800 m, traverse left across a ditch; continue to a lone birch tree (where ascent and descent routes meet). Follow the path left until reaching WWI remains and a command gallery at the foot of a vertical wall (via ferrata book) and the nearby start of the route.
Route
A good sense of direction is essential—small red dots often mark the only route guidance! The trail is moderately exposed and very slippery due to loose stones (risk of falling!). After a final scree-filled channel, you reach the end of the ferrata and continue climbing northeast, under the Forame de Fora walls, reaching the highest point (Forame de Inze, 2385 m). Continue to the Forcella Gialla and then to Forcella Verde (2380 m).
Technical Details
A relatively short, solitary, shaded route, partially equipped with new cables and anchors. After the start, there's a short vertical ladder and two iron rungs at the central section. The climb weaves through the natural park of the Ampezzo Dolomites, offering stunning views of the Croda Rossa d'Ampezzo, Cristallo, and Tofane. The trail includes many WWI remnants. Do not underestimate the length of the ascent and descent—orientation and stable footing are required.
Descent
From Forcella Verde, descend steeply (right), partially on scree and slippery gravel. At the end of the glacial cirque, look to the right to spot the "Ospitale" sign. Descend rapidly, tracing the foot of the mountain back to the lone birch and reverse the approach path. Alternative: From Forcella Verde, take trail no. 233 to "Im Gemärk", then walk ~4 km back along the bike path to Ospitale.
Gallery
