Advanced Alta Via 4

Starting at the shores of Lake Sorapiss and the Dito di Dio (2,603 m), the trail quickly ascends rocky terrain to reveal a grey, lunar landscape, bringing you into a wild and rugged alpine world. This stage involves repeated ascents and descents, with several sections requiring concentration and steady footing.

The Ferrata Vandelli is one of the most dramatic sections of the Alta Via 4. After an impressive aerial passage, turn around to enjoy the breathtaking view of Lake Sorapiss, which will warm your heart despite the ropes and ladders. Here, the silence is broken only by your footsteps and the whistling wind.

You will then descend into a rugged valley and continue alongside it until you reach Punta Tre Sorelle (3,005 m) on your right. Punta Sorapiss (3,205 m) will remain visible in the distance on the opposite side. After negotiating some steep and challenging stretches, the terrain softens as you approach the San Marco Refuge, which is ideal for a rest stop.

Eventually, you will arrive at Forcella Piccola (2,120 m), a wide saddle at the head of the Val d'Oten. Just as your legs start to protest during the final ascent to Rifugio Pietro Galassi, the impressive north face of Monte Antelao comes into view. It's a powerful sight with which to end the day. Rifugio Galassi is located right beneath it, providing the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset.

On your final day on the Alta Via 4, you will start beneath the imposing Antelao massif. From Rifugio Galassi, the route heads southeast through rocky terrain, passing two glaciers: the Ghiacciaio Inferiore dell'Antelao and the Ghiacciaio Superiore dell'Antelao. Be prepared for a challenging section here that requires care and concentration. There is a viewpoint at Punto Essa. You will then reach Forcella Piria, a high, wild saddle between Tamburlon and Crode de San Pietro, which offers one last panoramic view of the Dolomites.

Once you have crossed the pass, the trail begins a long, steady descent. As the scenery softens, you will walk through wooded areas and approach the picturesque Rifugio Antelao. This is a great place to rest before tackling the final stretch. From here, the terrain becomes gentler, with gravel paths and woodland trails winding through small alpine settlements and past scenic viewpoints.

The zigzag descent continues through the quiet village of Pozzale di Cadore and via several forest switchbacks. As you approach the end of the trail, you will catch glimpses of the rooftops of Pieve di Cadore below and Piave Lake. The final descent is a satisfying symbolic return to civilisation after five days in the heart of the wild Dolomites.