Excursion to Edelweiss Stellung
This simple and pleasant snowshoeing excursion in the Great War sites leads to Edelweiss Stellung (the “Alpine Star Outpost”), a former military village with several barracks. Six of these structures have been recently reconstructed thanks to the dedication of local volunteers.
While access to the interiors is not permitted during winter, exploring the Great War sites on snowshoes is still a fascinating experience in a stunning natural setting.
Getting there
From Cortina d’Ampezzo or Val Cordevole, head to Passo Falzarego, and from there, continue to Fort Tre Sassi, also known as “Fort in tra i sass,” located at Passo Valparola between Falzarego and Val Badia.
If coming from Val Badia, pass through San Cassiano and Armentarola to reach Rifugio Valparola. Continue for 500 meters to arrive at the fortress. Fort Tre Sassi, nestled between Sass de Stria and Piccolo Lagazuoi, is now a museum dedicated to World War I.
Route: How to Reach Edelweiss Stellung
I recommend parking on the eastern side of the fortress (towards Passo Falzarego) in a visible parking area accessible by a short road. This is the starting point of the snowshoeing excursion.
Walking along the northwest slopes of Sass de Stria, we initially descend gently along the less steep part of the slope, heading south while keeping to the west side of Sass de Stria.
The view is breathtaking: Col di Lana stands prominently before us. This peak marked the border between the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Kingdom of Italy. During World War I, Col di Lana witnessed fierce battles that claimed around 8,000 lives, earning it the nickname “The Blood Mountain.”
In the background, Marmolada, the highest peak in the Dolomites (3,343 m), stands majestically. To the right, the vertical walls of Setsass and Monte Castello attract rock climbers during warmer months, offering challenging single-pitch climbs in an extraordinary environment.
Further down, some of the Edelweiss Stellung barracks are already visible, and we will reach them shortly. This small village was built after the fall of Fort Tre Sassi.
Historical Background of Fort Tre Sassi
Fort Tre Sassi, constructed by the Austro-Hungarian Empire between 1897 and 1901, aimed to block potential Italian troop advancements towards Val Badia.
However, the fort’s operational life was brief.
Early in the war, Italian artillery heavily damaged it, prompting the Austrian command to evacuate and reinforce positions at Sass de Stria and Lagazuoi.
Edelweiss Stellung was built to defend the southern border. Edelweiss Stellung has six buildings: a kitchen, command post, infirmary, telegraph station, and dormitories.
Snowshoeing in the Great War sites. The Trench and Defensive Line
Leaving the barracks behind, the snowshoeing route gently descends towards the large trench that marks the defensive and observation line of Edelweiss Stellung. Spread along this line are shooting positions with sweeping views over the Sotciastel forest below, where Italian infantry repeatedly attempted to advance without success. The trench may not be fully visible under heavy snow, but a keen eye can spot its outline.
Snowshoeing in the Great War sites like Edelweiss Stellung offers a historical journey and an immersive experience in the dramatic and breathtaking landscape of the Dolomites.
The return ascent partially follows the ancient Strada della Vena, historically used to transport iron ore extracted from the Fursil mines at Colle di Santa Lucia. The Fursil mines on Monte Pore yielded a highly prized iron ore known as manganese siderite.
Strada della Vena was built specifically to transport this valuable resource, which still connects the Fursil mines to Andraz Castle and continues towards Val Badia via Passo Valparola.
From here, we head west on flat terrain towards a memorial cross honoring war victims. At this point, we can choose our return route: either complete the loop by returning to Fort Tre Sassi, visible from this location or ascend briefly to Rifugio Valparola for a well-deserved meal prepared by the refuge’s chef. After a rest, a short five-minute walk along the paved road returns us to our car.
Excursion Details
Difficulty: Easy
Average Duration: Less than 2 hours
Rest Stops: Rifugio Passo Valparola
