What age or experience is required for this trip?

Participants must be at least 16 years old and have prior experience with via ferrata or alpine climbing.

Is prior climbing equipment needed or provided?

Giovanni Orlando’s guides provide personal safety equipment for those lacking their own, including harness, helmet, and via ferrata kits.

How difficult is the glacier descent from Punta Penia?

The glacier descent is a technical section requiring crampon and ice axe skills, but it is guided to ensure safety.

What is the accommodation during the trip?

Climbers spend the night at Rifugio Pian dei Fiacconi, a traditional mountain hut offering basic alpine lodging.

How do weather conditions affect the climb?

Weather can change rapidly in the Dolomites, so the guides monitor conditions closely and adjust plans for safety.

Can I book this trip as a solo traveler?

Yes, solo travelers are welcome, though group pricing benefits apply for 2 or more participants.

Ferrata Cresta Ovest: Marmolada Via Ferrata with Giovanni Orlando

Located in the rugged heart of the Dolomites, just outside the village of Canazei, the Ferrata Cresta Ovest alla Marmolada offers a compelling two-day ascent that challenges and rewards those drawn to alpine adventure. Operated by Giovanni Orlando, this guided route takes climbers to the summit of Punta Penia at 3,343 meters, the highest point in the Dolomites. Here, adventurers are met with sweeping 360° panoramas that arc from the glinting Venetian lagoon to the distant glaciers of Austria, a rare alpine stage framed by diverse landscapes.

The climb itself is a demanding and secure via ferrata, a protected climbing path fitted with fixed cables, rungs, and ladders, designed to provide safety and accessibility without skipping on excitement. The route traces along the West Crest, cutting through prominent limestone formations distinctive to the Dolomites. The unique geological makeup—characterized by steep, pale rock faces—is both a playground and a classroom for those interested in Earth's alpine history.

Giovanni Orlando's operation stands out in this region due to the blend of technical guidance and cultural immersion. The trip includes an overnight in a mountain refuge, adding authentic local flavor, and culminates in a glacier descent that offers an exceptional finale unlike other hikes in these peaks. Cold winds, shifting snow, and sheer exposure demand preparation, but the expert support ensures a manageable, exhilarating experience.

This trip distinguishes itself within the northern Italian outdoor scene through its combination of natural beauty, challenging climbing, and the unique chance to cross a glacier descending from the Marmolada massif. More than just a climb, it’s a deep engagement with the Dolomites’ alpine environment, blending adventure with a grounded respect for the mountain's raw power and fragile ecosystems.

About Giovanni Orlando

Giovanni Orlando is a mountain guide based in La Secca, Veneto, offering guided adventures across the Dolomites. The program of trips includes freeride skiing on Marmolada; via ferrata routes such as Cesco Tomaselli on Lagazuoi, Olivieri at Punta Anna, Bepi Zac al Costabella, and Cresta Ovest alla Marmolada; classic ascents like the via normale alla Cima Grande di Lavaredo and Cima Piccola di Lavaredo; canyoning in Val Maggiore; glacier crossings to Punta Penia; plus family-oriented outings at the Cascate di Fanes and Cinque Torri. Routes cover a wide range of difficulty, from easy family ferratas to demanding exposed climbs and technical glacier travel. Trips also highlight historical WWI trails such as the Cengia Martini and Kaiserjäger paths and feature natural attractions including waterfalls, canyons, and panoramic views of Marmolada, Lagazuoi, and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Operating from La Secca, Veneto, trip descriptions specify route type and expected challenge so participants can select appropriate adventures. Guided programs include necessary equipment use for each activity - via ferrata kits, canyoning ropes, and glacier travel gear when required - and adapt plans to participant ability and conditions. This approach helps visitors experience local landscapes, geological features, and historical sites with practical guidance. All trip listings reflect the specific routes and experiences offered, enabling clear expectations for families, intermediate hikers, and experienced climbers planning excursions in the Dolomites.

Availability, meeting points, detailed itineraries, and booking instructions are provided for each trip so participants can prepare equipment, fitness, and timing before arrival and logistics.