Via Ferrata
Giovanni Barbara
Mountain(s) / Location:
Val di Fanes
|
Maximum Height:
1400
m /
4593
ft |
Fletcher/Smith Rating: 1A
Hofler/Werner Rating: C
|
[ Show on Satellite Locator Map ] |
This is quite a different sort of Ferrata. It doesn't climb to a peak or to a lookout point. It starts on the rim of a canyon and winds down, around, and back up. The Hofler/Werner rating is greatly exaggerated. It certainly isn't a 'C' grade ferrata. Mayyyybe a 'B', and even that is pushing it. The Fletcher/Smith rating for this outing (1A) is right on the mark. It is very, very easy. And, apart from the walk in, is very very short.
This ferrata visits a nice double waterfall along the fanis river. The ferrata can be traversed in either direction, and is for the most part easy trail hiking, with a bit of exposure and wire ropes. There are a few very small places where any climbing at all is required. The highlight, of course, is the magnificent waterfall, which has an upper and lower section. The route actually goes _behind_ the upper section, which is quite neat.
Most of your time will be spent walking on a paved/gravel road from the parking area, which is a few kms north of Cortina (see topo map). The actual time on the ferrata is very short.
Quick Reference Ferrate Route Index
(*) Difficulty
rating from the newer Cicerone Guide by Fletcher and Smith
(**) Difficulty rating from older Cicerone Guide by Hofler/Werner