The Cinque Torri offer dozens of climbing routes of every grade on solid Dolomitic rock, set in a uniquely panoramic arena above Cortina d'Ampezzo.
They are ideal both for those taking their first steps with a qualified guide and for experienced climbers, with the enormous advantage of an extremely short approach from the nearby huts.
How to get there — Rifugio Scoiattoli (2.255 m)
The reference point is Rifugio Scoiattoli, at 2,255 m, at the foot of the Cinque Torri above Cortina d'Ampezzo. The quickest way to get there is the chairlift that leaves from Bai de Dones, along the Passo Falzarego road linking Cortina to Val Badia, and reaches the Scoiattoli in a handful of minutes. Alternatively you can walk up from the car parks on the Falzarego with an approach of about half an hour. The beauty of these routes is precisely the base served by the huts, which keeps the walk to reach the towers with your gear to a minimum.
The trailhead is in the Cortina d'Ampezzo area. Check the travel guide for lift schedules, parking and access rules.
Stage by stage
1. Approach from the huts
A few minutes' walk from Rifugio Scoiattoli brings you to the base of the towers.
2. Classic routes
Choose your route according to grade — from the gentle introductory lines to the more challenging classics.
When to go & weather
The climbing season runs from June to September, when the rock is dry and the lifts open. The settled days of high summer offer the best conditions, but it is worth climbing early to have cool rock and be back down before the afternoon thunderstorms, frequent at altitude. At the start and end of the season the early hours can be cold, while the peak months are also the busiest on the classic routes, where you sometimes have to queue. The wall should always be avoided when the rock is wet or right after a downpour: damp dolomite is treacherous.
Recommended gear
- Harness, helmet and climbing shoes
- A set of quickdraws, slings and gear for building belays
- A single rope of a length suited to the routes chosen
- Cams and nuts for the trad-protected lines, of which there is no shortage here
- Layered clothing with a windproof shell for the altitude
- Water, food or cash for the stop at the nearby huts
Useful tips
- If you are a beginner, hire an alpine guide from Cortina: it is the safest way to start here
- Choose your routes by grade: at the Cinque Torri they range from the very easy to the extreme, there really is something for everyone
- Climb in the morning, with the rock still cool and the sky clear of thunderstorms
- Make use of the two huts, Scoiattoli and Cinque Torri, for the logistics and for a beer at the end of the day
- Leave time for the open-air Great War museum among the towers — it is worth the detour
Frequently asked questions
Can beginners climb at the Cinque Torri?
Yes, with a qualified alpine guide: there are easy routes well suited to introductory lessons. To climb independently you will need experience, your own equipment and proficiency in belaying.