Adventures abound and a big rush of adrenaline: In May, South Tyrol’s Three Peaks Dolomites holiday region starts into a new climbing and outdoor season drawing mountaineers of all sorts to the heart of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site. From beginners to experts, from hiking to climbing – fixed rope routes, via ferratas and high routes, exciting climbing parks and indoor climbing centers make the region a perfect destination for anyone “aiming high”, and popular climbing and outdoor events are sure to add that extra bit of action. The top five things to do for adrenaline junkies:
1. “Peak performance”: Following the Dolomites high routes
Taking a spectacular multi-day hike through the Dolomites requires a certain level of physical fitness and stamina. In spite of all the strain, it certainly won’t be long before the endorphins kick in, along the ridgeway crossing the Braies/Prags and the Sesto/Sexten Dolomites for example. During the five-day tour from Braies to the Dolomites’ famous Prato Piazza/Plätzwiese crossing the Valle della Rienza/Rienztal valley to the “Drei Zinnen Hütte” mountain hut and back to the idyllic Val Fiscalina/Fischleintal hikers will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Three Peaks. Nights can be spent at cozy, rustic huts to be found along the trails.
2. For novices and pros: Climbing parks & indoor climbing centres
Whether it is improving one’s skills or entering the world of climbing – the spectacular climbing parks in the Three Peaks Dolomites offer perfect terrain for all tastes. Known as some of the most popular destinations for experienced climbers are the climbing crag Landro in the Val di Landro/Höhlensteintal, and the challenging routes in Ponticello/Brückele in the Val di Braies valley, while the Rienztal valley climbing park attracts visitors with a variety of routes both for beginners and pros plus impressive views of the Three Peaks. Ideal places for practice are the two indoor climbing centers: The Nordic Arena in Dobbiaco/Toblach and the Dolomiten Arena in Sesto/Sexten provide routes for every level plus bouldering areas.
3. Follow the flow: Via ferratas in the Three Peaks Dolomites
Those who feel ready for the next step “up” can try and climb the Three Peaks with an experienced guide from one of the local alpine training centers. There is a whole choice of routes at different levels leading up the region’s landmark. The world famous Via Comici route on the north face (level VII), for example, is recommended for very experienced climbers only: 16 ropes and a 550-metre vertical slab make it a very special challenge.
4. Rock it! – The Dolorock Climbing Festival
A renowned event in the scene, the Dolorock Climbing Festival takes place from May 26 through 28, 2017 in the Three Peaks Dolomites. It offers climbers the opportunity to spend a weekend dedicated to their favorite sports and to compete against big names from the scene in the Landro valley. More detailed information is available on www.dolorock.com.
5. Aiming high: The Adventure Outdoor Fest, San Candido/Innichen
Visitors at this year’s Adventure Outdoor Fest from June 28 through July 2 will be able to literally rise to new heights trying themselves at disciplines like high-lining, parkour, climbing, mountain biking, running and yoga. Next to courses, meetings and presentations the festival also presents workshops, film screenings in the evenings, and an exciting kid’s program. For full details see www.adventureoutdoorfest.com
For further information on activities and family-friendly accommodation in the Three Peaks Dolomites go to www.drei-zinnen.info.
INFO: Three Peaks Dolomites
