A spectacular route starting from Cortina d’Ampezzo and leading into the heart of the Fanes plateau, among alpine lakes, high‑mountain pastures and traces of the First World War. The hike combines the ascent to Col Bechei with the historic Via della Pace, offering two days filled with breathtaking views and unspoilt nature.
Day 1 – From Fiàmes to the Fanes Mountain Huts and ascent to Col Bechei
Starting point
- Fiàmes, along the SS51, north of Cortina
- Seasonal jeep service available to the Fanes Huts
Route
From the parking area at Pian de Loa, follow the gravel road into the Val di Fanes (trail no. 10), crossing the scenic Ponte Outo over the Ru de Travenànzes. The track climbs in wide switchbacks beneath the Taè walls, with an optional detour to the Fanes waterfall.
Continue to the Lago di Limo and the Passo di Limo (2172 m), gateway to the Alpe di Fanes, where the Fanes and La Varella huts are located.
Ascent to Col Bechei
From the pass, follow the marked trail that climbs gently eastwards across scree and rocky steps, reaching the high pastures at 2525 m, where old wartime positions are still visible. The final stretch climbs more steeply to the summit of Col Bechei (about 2 hours from the pass), a panoramic viewpoint over Sennes, Fanes and the surrounding Dolomites.
Technical data
- Elevation gain: approx. 800 + 560 m
- Hiking time: about 4 hours
- Difficulty: E (hiking)
- Equipment: standard mountain gear; an ice axe may be useful if snow is present
Day 2 – The Via della Pace and the Bivacco del Castello
From the Rifugio Fanes, follow the path to Malga Gran Fanes (2104 m). Shortly after, trail no. 17 branches off to the left and leads into the vast glacial amphitheatre of the Valùn Blanch, framed by the Cime di Furcia Rossa and the Cime Ciampestrìn.
The trail climbs steadily to the Bivacco della Pace (2760 m), located beneath the distinctive Monte Castello, an imposing rock tower linked to First World War events.
Optional extension
Continuing for another 45 minutes, you reach a panoramic saddle overlooking the Val Travenànzes, and finally the summit of Monte Cavallo (2912 m), with sweeping views over the Val Badia.
Technical data
- Elevation gain: approx. 900 m
- Hiking time: 5 hours round trip
- Difficulty: E–EE (depending on conditions)
