As early as 1972, Toni Sanmarchi published the 'Höhenweg der Stille' (High Route of Silence), noting that:

'This is not one of those "classic Dolomite hiking routes" that have recently gained popularity and are now flooded by streams of tourists, with certain sections becoming completely overcrowded...'

In other words, this route is fundamentally different, both because of its unique natural setting and the profound sense of solitude and silence that defines the landscape. Sanmarchi could hardly have chosen a more fitting name.

The route is often faint and not always easy to follow, especially in the southern section. Encounters with other hikers are rare. In the Naturpark Dolomiti Friulane, there has been a decrease in livestock grazing, while ibex and chamois are now seen more frequently. Several pairs of eagles raise their young here each summer. The alpine flora in this region is exceptionally rich and unique.

Your certified mountain hiking guide will ensure your safe passage from hut to hut, sharing insights into this extraordinary botanical diversity along the way. Although we rarely exceed an altitude of 2,000 metres, we find ourselves immersed in a rugged, wild and striking world of countless limestone pinnacles, towers and rock obelisks.

Overnight stays alternate between beautifully located alpine huts and welcoming guesthouses renowned for their superb regional cuisine. The cultural and artistic diversity of the German-speaking communities of Ploden and Zahre adds another fascinating dimension to the journey.

 

Section I: From St Lorenzen to Forni di Sopra

Sunday: Transfer from Toblach to a guesthouse in Carinthia.

Monday: Ascent to the Hochweißsteinhaus, with the option of climbing Monte Peralba (2,694 m), then on to the Calvi Hut.

Tuesday: Descent to the source of the Piave River, ascent to Sella Franza and Passo del Mulo, then descent past the Olbe Lakes to Rifugio Monte Ferro. Overnight stay in Sappada with a village visit.

Wednesday: via Passo Elbel to Rifugio De Gasperi for an overnight stay.

Thursday: From Rifugio De Gasperi, continue past Casera Razzo towards Forcella Tragonia, taking a lunch break en route, and then stay overnight at the very characteristic Casera Tragonia.

Friday: Cross Forcella Tragonia and descend to Forni di Sopra. Take the GLOBO ALPIN bus back to Toblach for a final overnight stay in a hotel.

Saturday: Departure after breakfast.