The terms 'Via Ferrata' and 'Brenta' are often used together.
You don't need to speak Italian to understand what they mean. No other mountain range in the Dolomites has a network of 'iron paths' (via ferrata) as dense as that of the Brenta Group, which is entirely located in Italian-speaking territory.
This is due to its special geological formations, which feature pronounced rock bands that often run horizontally across steep, exposed walls. The generally easy to moderately difficult via ferrata routes built over these bands often feel much harder than their rating suggests due to the steep walls they traverse.
The individual classics can be linked together to form an adventurous traverse of the entire group. Accommodation is in Italian mountain huts which feel like oases in the dramatic rock landscape of the Brenta Group.
Program Overview:
Sunday: Arrive in Madonna di Campiglio and ascend via Casinei to the Tuckett Hut.
Monday: Via ferrata to the Sosat Hut (2,496 m).
Tuesday: Sentiero Brentari to the Agostini Hut (2,410 m).
Wednesday: Via Ferrata Castiglioni – 12 Apostoli Hut – Bocca d'Ambiez – Agostini Hut (2,410 m).
Thursday: Bocchette Centrali – Alimonta Hut (2600 m).
Friday: Bocchette Alte – Rifugio Casinei.
Saturday: Descent.
In short, this Via Ferrata week offers breathtaking views and thrilling sections, while the overnight huts provide an alpine atmosphere and warm hospitality. This programme has been one of the “Solid Gold” classics for over 30 years.