The Catinaccio: The enchanted mountain of the Dolomites
The Catinaccio, known in German as Rosengarten and in Ladin as Ciadenac, is a mountain range of the Dolomites located within the Sciliar-Catinaccio Nature Park, between the Val di Tires, the Val d’Ega, and the Val di Fassa, the Ladin valley of Trentino. The range is famous for the distinctive pink glow it takes on at sunset, a phenomenon known in Ladin as enrosadira.
Enchanting peaks
The Catinaccio is crossed by several side valleys, including the Val di Vael, Val di Vajolet, Val di Udai, Val di Dona, and Val Duron. Among its most fascinating summits are the Croda dei Cirmei, the Croda di Re Laurino, and the Roda di Vaèl.
The highest peak is the Catinaccio d’Antermoia, which rises to 3,004 m a.s.l. and was first climbed on 31 August 1872. Another iconic group of peaks is the Vajolet Towers: six spires that rise in the center of the mountain range. Their peaks are named:
- Torre Delago
- Torre Stabeler
- Torre Winkler
- Torre Nord
- Torre Principale
- Torre Est
These towers are among the most sought-after destinations for mountaineers, offering sheer rock walls and breathtaking scenery.
A magical sunset: The Enrosadira
The phenomenon of the enrosadira is a unique natural spectacle that fascinates visitors from all over the world. Its scientific explanation lies in the special composition of the Dolomite rock, which at sunset reflects the sunlight in shades of pink, orange, and fiery red.
But there is also a captivating legend linked to King Laurin, the mythical ruler of the dwarves, whose kingdom was covered in enchanted roses. It is said that, cursed for losing his realm, Laurin decreed that no one would ever again behold his beautiful rose garden, neither by day nor by night. However, he forgot about the sunset — and that is why the Catinaccio still turns pink and orange in the final hours of the day.
The German name Rosengarten literally means “rose garden” and comes directly from this legend.
A unique experience
Between green meadows and rocky walls, this landscape is perfect for a pleasant and rewarding hike, where you can explore nature and enjoy delicious local food in one of the many alpine huts, such as the Vajolet Hut (2,243 m) or the Re Alberto I Hut (2,621 m) — one of the best spots to witness the Enrosadira.
Among the most spectacular trekking routes, the Catinaccio Loop is ideal for experienced hikers: a challenging walk that reveals the area’s wonders, including the Vajolet Towers and Lake Antermoia. For climbing and mountaineering enthusiasts, the Santner Via Ferrata is a must, as is the Sentiero delle Scalette trail.
A hike on the Catinaccio is a journey through history, nature, and legend — offering unforgettable views in every season.