Explore the Dolomites safely with a certified mountain guide
Join me on a Guided Via Ferrata Dolomites adventure and experience breathtaking views, safe climbing,
and unforgettable moments — whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned hiker.
Experience the thrill of the Dolomites with a certified, English-speaking mountain guide from Cortina d’Ampezzo.
My guided via ferrata Dolomites tours are designed to help you explore these spectacular mountains safely and confidently — whether you’re an experienced hiker or completely new to via ferratas. Let me guide you along the “iron paths” of the Dolomites for a day of breathtaking views, personal achievement, and unforgettable adventure.
What is a Via Ferrata?
Via ferrata (Italian for “iron path”) is a protected climbing route equipped with fixed steel cables, ladders, and rungs anchored to the rock.
It allows hikers with little or no climbing experience to ascend dramatic alpine walls and ridges safely. Climbers wear a harness lanyard system to clip into the cables, ensuring continuous protection on the route.
In the Dolomites – the birthplace of via ferrata – these routes range from easy climbs suitable for beginners to airy, challenging journeys for the adventurous.
In short, a via ferrata lets you experience the vertical world of the Dolomites without needing to be a rock climber. It’s an exciting blend of hiking and climbing, all amid breathtaking scenery. If you want to learn more about the history, grading, and equipment used on these routes, check out my complete guide to via ferrata in the Dolomites.
Why hire a certified local guide?
Choosing to hire a certified local mountain guide for your via ferrata adventure in the Dolomites can make the difference between a good day out and an unforgettable one. As a professional Cortina-based guide, I aim to elevate your experience from enjoyable to truly extraordinary. Here’s why having me as your local certified guide adds so much value:
- Safety & Expertise: As an IFMGA-certified mountain guide, I help my guests explore the Dolomites using professional techniques, careful planning and many years of local experience. I’ll show you how to use the equipment properly, keep a close eye on your safety, and help you navigate any tricky sections with confidence. You’ll feel secure tackling the heights under my care.
- Local Knowledge: I was born and raised in Cortina d’Ampezzo and have spent my entire life exploring these mountains. I’ll choose the ideal via ferrata route based on your ability and the day’s conditions – whether you’re looking for a gentle introduction or a vertical challenge. My local knowledge means you’ll be in the right place at the right time, from avoiding crowds to catching the most stunning views.
- All Gear Provided: No need to buy expensive equipment you might only use once. I provide all the essential via ferrata gear – helmet, harness, and lanyard set – ensuring everything is high-quality and well-maintained for maximum safety. All you need to bring is your clothing, a bit of curiosity, and a sense of adventure.
- Personalized Experience: Whether you’re a first-timer, a family looking for a fun day out, or an experienced climber seeking a real thrill, I’ll tailor the day to suit your needs. I create private or small-group experiences based on your fitness, comfort level, and goals – no one-size-fits-all tours here.
- Stories & Insights: A day out with me isn’t just about climbing – it’s about connection. I love sharing my passion for these mountains, from their World War I history (many via ferratas were born in wartime) to the local wildlife and unique geology. You’ll return not only with stunning photos, but also with a richer understanding of the Dolomites’ nature and culture.
Meet your Cortina mountain guide – Enrico
I’m Enrico Maioni, an IFMGA/UIAGM certified mountain guide based in Cortina d’Ampezzo. I was born and raised in Cortina d’Ampezzo, and I’ve spent my entire life exploring the peaks that surround this beautiful town. As a certified IFMGA/UIAGM alpine guide – the highest international qualification – I’ve completed extensive training to safely lead guests in high-mountain environments. Over the years, I’ve guided hundreds of English-speaking visitors from all over the world, and I’m always happy to help my guests enjoy the Dolomites in English.
With decades of guiding experience in the Dolomites, I guide both beginners and experienced mountain enthusiasts, adapting every outing to the people, the conditions and the objectives of the day. Whether you’re a beginner finding your footing or an experienced adventurer looking for your next challenge, I’ll make sure you feel supported and confident every step (and cable) of the way.
My goal is to help you experience the Dolomites safely while discovering their beauty, history and unique character.
I haven’t just guided on many of the via ferratas around Cortina – together with my colleagues, I also took part in building several of them.
I look forward to sharing my home mountains with you.
Featured Via Ferrata Tours in the Dolomites
The Dolomite Mountains around Cortina offer via ferrata routes for all skill levels, each with its own unique beauty. Cortina d’Ampezzo, also known as the Queen of the Dolomites, is especially renowned for its extraordinary variety of routes. In fact, no other town in the Dolomites boasts as many via ferratas on the surrounding peaks as Cortina.
Whether you’re looking for an easy introduction to this exciting activity or a more demanding alpine adventure, you’ll find plenty of options here. Here are a few of my featured via ferrata tours that you can experience with a guide:
Via ferrata Ra Pegna – Easy & instructive – Beginner-Friendly, Full-Day.
This short but scenic via ferrata is perfect for learning the ropes — literally. Located just above Rifugio Duca d’Aosta, beneath the impressive cliffs of Tofana di Mezzo, Ra Pegna offers a safe and fun introduction to via ferrata techniques, with solid rock, great views, and a manageable level of exposure.
Although the route itself is brief, it’s an excellent starting point for beginners or anyone who wants to gain confidence on the cables. If you’re feeling confident and want to add a bit more challenge, I often combine it with the nearby Ra Bujela via ferrata, which offers slightly more verticality and a different style of climbing — the two routes are right next to each other.
Even when we climb only Ra Pegna, I like to make it a full-day experience, often combining the climb with a scenic alpine hike or a well-earned break at a mountain hut. It’s a relaxed yet rewarding way to step into the world of via ferrata — and enjoy the Dolomites at your pace.
Via Ferrata delle Truppe Alpine (Col dei Bos) – Historic & Scenic, Full-Day.
This rewarding route on Col dei Bos, near the Falzarego Pass, is perfect for fit beginners looking for their first real via ferrata experience. It offers solid rock, varied terrain, and beautiful views of the surrounding peaks — all with the security of fixed cables and a professional guide by your side.
The climb is not too technical, but it does require good fitness and a steady step. Along the way, we’ll pass WWI remains, including trenches and a small bunker at the top — a powerful reminder of the history hidden in these mountains.
Though some complete this route in half a day, I treat it as a full-day guided via ferrata Dolomites experience — with time to climb, explore, and enjoy the scenery without rushing.
Via ferrata Strobel (Punta Fiames) – Physically demanding, rewarding climb, Full-Day.
This classic route climbs the south face of Punta Fiames, just above the Cortina valley. While the technical difficulty is moderate (rated 3 out of 5), the physical effort is considerable: the total elevation gain, including the approach, is over 1,000 meters (3,280 feet).
The climb is long and steady, with good rock and a satisfying sense of progression. From the summit, you’ll enjoy wide views over the Ampezzo valley — but the day is not over. The descent through steep scree is challenging and puts your legs to the test.
If you’re in good shape and looking for a solid, full-day via ferrata experience without extreme exposure, Strobel is a great choice. I guide this tour regularly and always adapt the pace to your ability.
Via Ferrata Punta Anna (Tofana di Mezzo) – Challenging & Thrilling, Full-Day.
For adrenaline seekers, Punta Anna is a top-tier via ferrata that climbs a steep spur on the Tofana massif above Cortina. Expect a heart-pumping ascent up vertical rock faces and along exposed ridgelines with HUGE views of the Dolomites at every turn. This route is best for those who are sure-footed and looking for a challenge – and I always guide it personally to ensure maximum safety.
I’ll coach you through the technical sections, and the sense of accomplishment at the top (over 2,700 m high) is truly rewarding. (Not for the faint of heart, but if you’re up for it, you’ll have bragging rights for life!)
Don’t see the exact route you’re dreaming of? There are dozens of incredible via ferrata in the Dolomites. Enrico can guide many other routes as well – just ask! From the tunnels of Lagazuoi to the stunning peaks of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo area, we can find the perfect tour for you.
What’s included & what to bring
Tour Includes:
- A certified IFMGA mountain guide dedicated to your group — and whenever possible, that guide is me..
- All safety gear is provided on every guided via ferrata Dolomites tour: harness, helmet, and via ferrata lanyard (energy-absorbing tether with carabiners). All gear is modern, well-maintained, and UIAA certified for your safety.
- Instruction on via ferrata techniques, trail information, and personal coaching throughout the day. No prior experience is needed —I’ll teach you everything you need to know!
- As your English-speaking local guide, I enjoy sharing not just the trails, but also the stories, nature, and history that make the Dolomites such a special place.
- The majority of my clients are English speakers, and I’ve always been able to communicate effectively with them.
- To ensure precision when replying to emails, I sometimes use an automatic translator — just to be extra accurate. I like to mention this to avoid any misunderstanding about my English skills. 🙂
You Should Bring:
- Sturdy hiking boots (with good grip) and comfortable, active clothing suitable for mountain weather. Dress in layers – mornings can be cool even in summer, but you’ll warm up while climbing.
- A small backpack with essentials: water (1-2L per person), snacks or lunch, and a light waterproof/windproof jacket. Weather in the high mountains can change quickly, so it’s good to be prepared for sun, wind, or an occasional shower.
- Via ferrata gloves or light sports gloves (optional but recommended). These protect your hands on metal rungs and cables and improve your grip, making the climb more comfortable.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses – the sun at higher altitudes is strong, and there’s often glare off the rock. A sunhat or buff is also helpful on exposed routes.
- Camera or phone (optional, but you’ll want to capture the views!). I’m also happy to take photos of you during the tour if you’d like, so you can focus on the climb and enjoy the moment.
- A sense of adventure! 😃 Most importantly, come with enthusiasm and an open mind to try something new. Via ferrata is about challenging yourself and having fun — and I’ll do everything I can to make sure you enjoy every step.
If you have any questions about gear or specific needs, feel free to ask me. I want you to feel comfortable and confident. Once you book, I’ll send you a detailed prep list and can help you arrange any extra gear rentals you might need — like hiking boots or a backpack.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No. You don’t need any rock climbing experience to enjoy a via ferrata. These routes were designed to be accessible to hikers and newcomers. As long as you’re reasonably fit, sure-footed, and ready for a bit of adventure, you can absolutely tackle a beginner via ferrata. I’ll show you how to use the harness and carabiners, and I’ll be right there to guide and support you along the way. Many of the people I accompany are first-timers — and they’re often amazed at what they achieve by the end of the day!
Yes, absolutely. Safety is always my top priority. When you’re clipped into the steel cable with the proper gear, you’re protected even if you slip — the system is designed to catch you and prevent any serious falls. As a professional mountain guide, I add an extra layer of safety by closely monitoring each step you take, making sure you’re always secured, and, when needed, roping you up for additional protection on the more exposed sections. The routes and equipment are regularly maintained, and I use only high-quality, certified gear. While all mountain activities come with some risk, going with an experienced guide and using the right equipment makes via ferrata one of the safest ways to enjoy the thrill of high-altitude adventure.
You don’t have to be an athlete, but a moderate fitness level helps. If you can hike for a few hours with some steep sections, you should manage an easier via ferrata just fine. I offer routes that are short and relatively gentle for those who prefer a more relaxed pace, and I also guide longer or more vertical climbs for stronger hikers. When you book, we’ll chat about your fitness level and choose a route that suits you. Remember, you can always go at your own pace — this isn’t a race, and we’ll take plenty of time to rest, take in the scenery, and enjoy the moment. Feeling comfortable with heights (or being motivated to face that fear) is actually more important than physical strength. In fact, many people find that any nervousness they feel at the beginning fades away quickly as their confidence grows on the rock.
Yes, via ferrata can absolutely be a family-friendly adventure! I often guide families, and kids around 10 years old and up can usually take part in easier routes, as long as they’re well-supervised and able to follow instructions. I’ve guided teens — and even younger children — on the right terrain, and they usually end the day grinning from ear to ear, saying it was the best part of their trip. For older adults, if you have a reasonable level of fitness and no serious mobility issues, you’re more than welcome to join too. I’ll help select a route that matches everyone’s ability so you can all enjoy the day together. Safety harnesses come in different sizes, and I can accommodate most participants. If you’re unsure whether via ferrata is right for you or your family, just get in touch — I’m always happy to help you figure out the best option.
I always keep a close eye on the mountain weather forecast. If dangerous conditions are expected – like thunderstorms, heavy rain, or early snow – I’ll either adjust our plan or reschedule the tour. Your safety comes first: via ferratas should never be climbed during lightning or freezing rain. Thankfully, during summer the weather in the Dolomites is often stable in the mornings, with any storms usually arriving later in the afternoon. That’s why we typically start early to make the most of the safe weather window.
If the forecast isn’t promising, I’ll talk it through with you. We might choose a different route or area with better conditions, or shift the time or date if possible. And if we have to cancel because of weather and you’re unable to reschedule, don’t worry — you won’t lose your deposit. I’ll do everything I can to ensure you still have a fantastic experience while staying safe and dry.
Still have questions? Feel free to reach out to me anytime via the contact form or email — I’m here to help you feel comfortable and well-prepared before you embark on your via ferrata adventure.
What my guests say
“Via ferrata with Enrico. A phenomenal day with Enrico, the aim was to get an expert to teach us the basics of via ferrata so we could continue ourselves. Enrico did this and so much more, the route selection was incredible and we couldn’t have asked for anymore! Thank you!”
— Alex B., USA
“Enrico is an amazing guide! He is patient, funny, and extremely knowledgeable about the mountains. I was a bit nervous at first, but he made me feel confident on the cables. This was our first guided via ferrata Dolomites trip, and it exceeded all expectations! By the end, I was climbing like a pro (or at least it felt that way!). The day was equal parts challenge and enjoyment. We even learned about local history as we climbed. Five stars – we can’t recommend this experience enough.”
— Sarah, UK
You can find more reviews on TripAdvisor and elsewhere — I’m grateful to be recommended by travelers from all over the world!
Book your guiderd Via Ferrata adventure
Contact me today and let’s plan your climb – I’d love to hear from you! Let’s make it happen! Getting started is easy: just use the contact form below or send me an email at e@guidedolomiti.com to check availability, ask questions, or plan a customized tour. I’ll personally respond to help you get everything set up.
No matter if you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family/friends, I’d love to hear from you. I personally respond to every inquiry (usually within 24 hours) with all the details you need. From there, we’ll talk about the best via ferrata options for your dates and experience level – and get everything set up for an unforgettable day in the mountains.
→ Contact me today and take the first step toward your Dolomite via ferrata adventure! I’ll be here, ready to welcome you to the Dolomites for an experience you’ll never forget. See you on the mountain!