Cinque Torri Loop: trekking among the Great War trenches

The Cinque Torri loop blends landscape and history: it circles the cluster of spires beloved by Cortina's climbers and crosses the open-air Great War museum, with its restored trenches and gun emplacements.

It is an easy, panoramic route ideal for families, with Rifugio Scoiattoli and Rifugio Nuvolau close by.

How to get there — Rifugio Scoiattoli / Bain de Dones (2.255 m)

The starting point is the Bai de Dones area, at about 1,890 m, in the Cinque Torri district near Cortina d'Ampezzo. From Cortina drive up the Passo Falzarego road to the turning for Bai de Dones, where there is a paid car park at the foot of the chairlift. From the station, a chairlift with closed cabins carries you in a few minutes up towards Rifugio Scoiattoli, at the foot of the spires, avoiding the climb on foot. Those who prefer to walk up too can reach the hut along the trail, reckoning on a little extra elevation gain.

The trailhead is in the Cortina d'Ampezzo area. Check the travel guide for lift schedules, parking and access rules.

Stage by stage

When to go & weather

The ideal period runs from June to October, with the chairlift running and the open-air Great War museum walkable without snow. It is an easy (E) and short loop, perfect on any fine summer day, although it can get rather crowded in the middle of the day in August. September and early October bring the golden light of autumn on the Tofane and fewer people among the trenches. The elevation gain is modest, but you are still above 2,200 m: bring a warm layer and check the forecast for afternoon thunderstorms.

Recommended gear

• Comfortable trekking shoes with a sole that grips on the stony trails
• A light windproof jacket for the altitude
• Water and snacks, even though the huts are close at hand
• Hat, sunglasses and sun cream
• Camera for the spires and the Great War walkways

Useful tips

• Follow trail 439 that passes among the trenches and positions of the Great War: take the time to read them, not just to photograph the spires
• Use the chairlift up and walk down, or vice versa, depending on your energy
• Extend the loop by climbing towards Rifugio Averau and the Nuvolau for a 360° panorama
• Treat yourself to a stop at Rifugio Scoiattoli, with the view dropping straight onto the Cinque Torri
• An ideal route for families: the theme of the trenches captures children too
• Reckon on about 530 m of elevation gain if you decide to walk up and down without the chairlift

Huts and rest points

• Rifugio Nuvolau (2575 m) — Il rifugio più antico delle Dolomiti, in posizione aerea sopra le Cinque Torri. Details →