Strada degli Alpini di Sesto – Complete Guide
The Strada degli Alpini di Sesto is one of the most fascinating and historically rich routes in the Dolomites, ideal for experienced hikers looking for a technical and panoramic challenge. Set in an extraordinary landscape, it traverses the slopes of Giralba di Sopra, the Zsigmondy Ridge, and leads to the Passo della Sentinella, offering breathtaking views and testimonies of World War I.
- Approach time: 3:30 h
- Via ferrata duration: 2:30 h
- Total route duration: 8 h
- Elevation gain in ferrata: 337 meters
- Total elevation gain: 1,200 meters
- Total length: 11 km
- Difficulty: Difficult
With a total duration of about 8 hours, 11 km in length, and a total elevation gain of about 1,200 meters, this route requires endurance, a sure step, and good physical preparation.
We present it here divided into three stages. Ready to go?
Stage 1: From Val Fiscalina to Rifugio Zsigmondy-Comici
The starting point is Val Fiscalina, a side valley of Sesto, where you can leave your car at the Rifugio Fondo Valle parking lot. From here, take trail no. 102, which gradually ascends through forests and meadows, reaching the Rifugio Zsigmondy-Comici (2,224 m) in about 3 hours and 30 minutes of walking.
Even at this stage, you can admire the majestic peaks of the Dolomites of Sesto, and immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere of these places, which were part of the front during World War I.
From the refuge, continue towards the entrance of the via ferrata along trail no. 101, which runs along the south face of Croda dei Toni.
Stage 2: The Cengia della Salvezza and Forcella Undici
From here begins the famous Cengia della Salvezza, a natural balcony suspended on the rock, equipped with metal ropes for safety on the exposed sections. While not technically difficult, it’s important to have a secure step and no fear of heights.
After passing the ledge, reach Forcella Undici (about 2,600 m), a beautiful panoramic terrace with views of the Three Peaks of Lavaredo and Croda dei Toni. From this point, you can decide whether to end the hike and descend back or continue towards the more challenging section that leads to Passo della Sentinella.
Stage 3: From Passo della Sentinella to Return
The final part of the route, from Forcella Undici to Passo della Sentinella, is the most technical and reserved for experienced hikers. The route continues with sections equipped with fixed ropes, narrow ledges, and debris fields. This section also includes a metal ladder and single steps, which facilitate vertical progression in some exposed areas.
After reaching Passo della Sentinella, descend along a steep via ferrata back to the valley below, always being cautious of falling rocks, especially in the warmer hours of the day. From here, return to Rifugio Fondo Valle in about 2 hours, completing the loop.
Useful Tips and Route Notes:
The Strada degli Alpini is considered one of the most spectacular hikes in the Dolomites of Sesto, for the perfect combination of landscape, history, and adrenaline. Hikers particularly appreciate the Cengia della Salvezza, both panoramic and picturesque, while they note the difficulty of the final section towards Passo della Sentinella, which requires attention and technical preparation.
- Not suitable for beginners: Experience with via ferratas is necessary, given the exposure and length of the route.
- Start early: In high season, the area is very popular, and parking fills up quickly. It’s better to start at dawn.
- Required equipment: Full via ferrata gear (harness, helmet, via ferrata set), trekking boots with good grip, via ferrata gloves, and appropriate clothing.