Climbing paradise in the Dolomites

There’s no doubt about it: Val Gardena and the Dolomites are surely one of the most stunning climbing paradises in the world. Climbing takes place exclusively on the renowned dolomite rock, on the spectacular backdrop of the Sassolungo, Sella, the Gruppo delle Odle and the Meisules (Passo Sella). There are also countless trails in Val Gardena: short, long, hard, easy, suspended and flat. The majority of the climbing gardens and the trails were opened by the members of Catores, the Val Gardena climbing guild.

Climbing areas

City of Stones - Città dei Sassi

The City of Stones (Città dei Sassi) must be one of the most well-known climbing parks, sitting below the Sassolungo on the Passo Sella. It resulted from a colossal ravine and has been used as a training ground for many years. There are countless rocks with numerous trails which are also ideal for families. You can rope climb and boulder too. The large rocks are placed in such a way that you will find a cool spot in the shade even during the hot summer days. You will find 29 trails (difficulty level 4), 24 trails (difficulty level 5c), 75 trails (difficulty level between 6a and 6c) and 13 trails (difficulty level above 7a). There are also 16 bouldering trails (difficulty level until 5c), 20 trails (difficulty level between 6a and 6c), 10 trails (difficulty level from 7a).

Frea

You will be spoilt for choice even on Frea on the Passo Gardena. You will find a very interesting climbing wall with different trails, with one or more ropes. More than one of the 70 trails have ropes of different lengths. Most climbs occur on a vertical wall as well as on flat walls. What must be highlighted is the great atmosphere. There are 4 trails (difficulty level 4), 11 trails (difficulty level between 5a and 5b), 37 trails (difficulty level between 6a and 6c) and 21 trails (difficulty level above 7a).

Traumpfeiler

If you want to reach new heights, don’t miss the superb many rope Traumpfeiler. There are up to six lengths of rope on the trails which are perfectly protected and demanding enough. An interesting, technical climb on walls with holes and a beautiful view across the Sassolungo. You will find 4 trails (difficulty level below 6a), 32 trails (difficulty level between 6a and 6c), 19 trails (difficulty level between 7a and 7c) and 4 trails (difficulty level 8a).

Bernardi

The Bernardi climbing wall is a small wall, but it promises peace and cool in a shaded forest. The trails are not particularly long and of medium difficulty. Ideal for sporty climbers. The climb is slightly suspended and occurs on ledges and holes. You will climb on dolomite rock here, too. Prepare for 5 trails (difficulty level between 6b and 6c) and 7 trails (difficulty level between 7a and 7b).

Digital climbing guide

Digital climbing guides directly in the hands of climbers: Vertical-Life represents passion and dedication for climbing. The Vertical-Life app serves as the core of the Vertical-Life community, where climbers can access all the digital outdoor and indoor topos, tick their climbed routes, see their development, program their training plans, follow and interact with friends – and take part in challenges.

Further information:

  • "Climbing in Val Gardena Dolomites" (ISBN-10: 8868392259)
  • "The Dolomites: Rock Climbs and via Ferrata" (ISBN-10: 1873341970)
  • www.dolomitesalpine.it

Climbing halls in Val Gardena

Even though the Dolomites are made for climbing outdoors, Val Gardena’s climbing gyms are an ideal addition to sport climbing on rock. Here you can train your technique, try out new movements or simply stay active whatever the weather. Whether as preparation for alpine tours, as a training session in between or as a varied activity on rainy days, indoor climbing is a great way to keep moving away from the rock faces too.












Your way to Val Gardena

Your holiday destination in the heart of the Dolomites – how to get there.