A Via Ferrata just above Cortina: the Sci Club 18
The “Sci Club 18” is a demanding new via Ferrata which winds its way up the Crepe di Faloria face, immediately beneath the cable car which leads up to the top of Monte Faloria above Cortina. This difficult and exposed ferrata offers spectacular views over the entire Ampezzo basin and was created by the Cortina Mountain Guides and the Faloria company with 700m of steel cables and more than 300 pins.
The Ferrata is named after the Sci Club 18, the skiers club founded in 1930 in a pub in Rome by 18 friends who wanted to “promote skiing and the moral standpoint of youths.” The members generously provided a grant for this beautiful itinerary which runs parallel with the famous off-piste route Sci 18.
Getting there
Reach Cortina. From Cortina, take the Faloria cable car to the middle station at Mandres.
Access 1
Take path n° 206 which exits up through the wood and leads to the base of Monte Faloria.
Reach a fork and head right up the well marked path to the start of the ferrata at 1765m (1 hour from Mandres).
Descent
Three options:
1 – Via cable car.
2 – Down path n° 212 (SW) to Mandres then continue on the centre of Cortina.
3 – Take path n° 212 north towards Rio Gere then continue down path n° 206 to Mandres and Cortina.
GEAR
Normal via Ferrata kit
TIME
3,5 hours
ASCENT HEIGHT DIFFERENCE
643 m from Mandres
FERRATA HEIGHT DIFFERENCE
380 m
FACE
West
DIFFICULTIES
For experts only!
The route is difficult and exposed and it’s highly likely that the Ferrata will become very popular indeed.
The numerous vertical sections are overcome with the help of steps and ladders but require good fitness and experience on vie ferrate.
Access 2
f the cable car is closed, or if you prefer to start very early without waiting for the lift to open, I recommend the following alternative approach.
From Cortina, drive towards Passo Tre Croci. Shortly before reaching Rio Gere, you will see a turn-off on the left signposted for El Brite de Larieto. On the opposite side of the road, on the right, there is a lay-by where you can park your car.
From the parking area, follow the paved road downhill until you reach the stream, which you need to cross. Just after crossing it, you will find signs for Mandres – Fraina, trail no. 206.
Follow this trail, which is mostly flat or downhill, apart from a few short uphill sections. After about 30 minutes, you will reach the junction with the signs for the Sci Club 18 via ferrata.
This is the same point you would reach when taking the cable car and starting the approach from Mandres.
Need a map?
Tabacco Map n.3− 1:25.000 − Cortina d’Ampezzo e Dolomiti Ampezzane – Buy online
Related post:
How is this Ferrata in winter?
All the info about via Ferrata!
