Continue the Latemar Tour

(duration 5/6 h – difficulty difficult – elevation gain 780 m)

The first part is identical to the excursion to the Rifugio Torre di Pisa.

The Latemar Tour is for more expert hikers taking a few more hours on a nice circular route around the Latemar.

From the Rifugio Torre di Pisa keep on walking along path no.516 direction Forcella dei Camosci. A few meters behind the Rifugio from the helicopter landing pad, enjoy a nice view of the surrounding peaks and admire the leaning Torre di Pisa. This spire of Dolomite rock is 40 meters high and it reminds of the most famous Leaning Torre di Pisa, Tuscany city bearing the same name.

Downhill, towards the tower, the path is a bit challenging and the classic red and white signs are difficult to find. Once you have passed this short stony part go down on a short steep section, then flat till you reach the junction Forcella dei Camosci. This part is very particular: on the left you see a rock wall where, at times, the chamois look out; to the right a stony expanse with a few patches of grass. It looks like a lunar landscape!

In the background you can see the Forcella dei Campanili and to the right the Schenon del Latemar, overlooking like a big back (or a tilted table?). The via ferrata of the Campanili del Latemar passes through the spiers on the summit of the Schenon and the panorama from here is incredible.

At the junction the following paths branch off: path no. 516 which continues towards the Forcella dei Campanili and path no. 516B which goes to the Bivacco Latemar A. Sieff. To go up to the Forcella dei Camosci, we take the path no.18. The first section is steep and demanding, but you soon arrive to the saddle where you should take a break and admire the view towards the Schenon del Latemar and the Eastern Dolomites.

Next is the Oberholz chairlift in Obereggen. The first downhill section is a bit difficult as there is a gully between 2 rocks, but it only takes a few minutes. You arrive in a valley full of big stones and the path goes thropugh them. Finally you come out of the wonderful “rock faces labyrinth” and the panorama opens up: here is Obereggen and the lower part of the Val d’Ega. In the distance you can see the Renon plateau and the Palla Bianca.

The downhill section begins here, first among rocks, stones and gravel, then in the middle of the greenery. It goes down in a zigzag pattern among alpine meadows and, in the last stretch, among firs, larches and stone pines. In July you can admire the magnificent flowering of rhododendrons. Then take path no.22 which takes you back to the Rifugio Passo Feudo. 

Along the way there are numerous installations with explanations on the local flora and fauna and on the Latemar Dolomites. You will soon find yourself at the crossroads seen on the outward journey and descend towards Rifugio Passo Feudo. Here are the stone omenets, we’re almost there.

If time permits (the chairlift closes at 5.30pm) we recommend a gourmet break at the Rifugio Passo Feudo. Chocolate and cream cake or apple strudel? The choice is yours!

Mountain safety

When you’re out in the mountains, just remember: be smart and stay mindful and vigilant.
Study the map and pay attention to trail markers along the way and stay on the demarcated path.
Check the weather forecast, preferably from a local weather service with th most relevant information.
If fatigue sets in, or if you’re uncertain about the trail or encounter unfavourable weather, feel free to backtrack along the same path.
Suitable gear: hiking boots, rain jacket, hat or cap, water, sunscreen, snacks and a first aid kit. Hiking poles for more demanding routes.
In case of emergency, call 112.