The Cadini di Misurina are a compact group that's something like the end of the line for dolomite rock. Glaciers and weather have carved it into a forest of spires, towers, pinnacles and rock campaniles, with hollows and gullies in between, and that's where the name comes from. It's a vertical, almost staged landscape, among the most dramatic in the eastern Dolomites, a short way from the Lago di Misurina and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. It pulls in hikers, climbers and, above all, photographers.
The view everyone knows comes from the climb toward the Rifugio Fonda Savio at 2,367 metres. From there, paths lead to the cols that line up the spires. The route gains around 500 metres and is medium difficulty, but a few sections are exposed and ask for sure footing and a head for heights. You're at the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites here, and every step pays you back with views you won't forget.
Frequently asked questions
Are the trails to the Cadini di Misurina difficult?
The route to the Rifugio Fonda Savio is medium difficulty, gaining around 500 metres, but it has exposed sections that ask for sure footing and no fear of heights. Bring proper hiking gear.
Where is the most famous viewpoint?
The classic shot of the lined-up spires opens along the trails to the cols near the Rifugio Fonda Savio, at 2,367 metres above Misurina.