Via Ferrata Vallon Bianco

ZOOM ++

The wide Vallon Bianco summit marks the Fanes’ outer edge and is an outstanding observation point for the Travenazes valley, the Tofane, Croda Rossa, the Fanes valley and even the furthest alpine peaks. The ascent is not difficult and although equipped in sections, should be undertaken only by fit walkers, especially if starting from Pian de Loa (Cortina). The itinerary can be split into two by spending the night at Rifugio Fanes. Just like nearby Furcia Rossa, the ferrate crosses the front held by the Austrian’s during the First World War. Combing the two results in a magnificent (even if extremely long and demanding) traverse at altitude.

GETTING THERE

1) From Passo Falzarego or S. Cassiano take the Passo di Valparola road and turn off (north) at the Ru Sciare bridge to reach Capanna Alpina all’Armentarola (1726 m).
2) From S. Vigilio di Marebbe drive to Rifugio Pederù.

ACCESS

1) From Capanna Alpina take path no. 11 and cross Plan de Furcia to climb swiftly up to Col de Lòcia (2069 m). Continue past Passo Tadega (2157 m) and descend slightly to Alpe Fanes Grande (2 hrs). Take the path marked VB17 rightwards to ascend to Vallon del Fosso and, at a source (2402 m – 1 hr) follow the markers (VB).
2) From Rif. Pederù walk to Rif Fanes (2060m) and proceed to Alpe di Fanes Grande (2 hrs). Continue from here as described above.

ROUTE

From Alpe di Fanes Grande follow path no.17 southeast to ascend Vallon del Fosso. At the source (2402 m) follow the obvious VB markers for Vallon Bianco (FR leads away to Furcia Rossa). Continue past the obvious VB markers up several hairpin bends, after which the path turns left and traverses the north face of Vallon Bianco’s main crest. After a small metal bridge it then leads across exposed terrain, equipped in sections, to beneath the summit cross. The remains of military positions can still be seen nestled into the mountain, and were used by the Austrian to control the valle di Travenanzes and the Italian front during the Great War.

DESCENT

Descend as for the ascent.

GEAR

Normal via ferrata kit.

DIFFICULTY

This wild and solitary itinerary should is recommended for fit walkers, especially if starting from Pian de Loa. Experience on this type of terrain is essential, especially since some of the ferrate may not be in ideal condition.

MAPS/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Via Ferratas of the Italian Dolomites: Vol 1 by John Smith and Graham Fletcher. Cicerone Press 2002