The Giovanni Lipella Via Ferrata is one of the great classics of the Dolomites: a spectacular route that blends history, adrenaline and breathtaking scenery. From the Rifugio Dibona (2050 m) you reach the base of the majestic south face of the Tofana di Rozes, where the approach begins along trail no. 404. The path climbs gently to the left, crosses the Forcella Bos, and after about an hour leads to the start of the ferrata at 2480 m.
The helical war tunnel
The adventure begins with two short metal ladders that lead into the famous helical tunnel of Castelletto, carved by the Alpini in 1916. A unique passage: 500 metres long, with 120 metres of elevation gain, dark, humid and full of atmosphere. A headlamp is essential, and caution is needed at the entrances, where ice may be present even in summer.
Exiting the tunnel, you reach the Forcella di Rozes (2630 m), a natural balcony overlooking the Ampezzo Dolomites.
Ledges, terraces and continuous cables
From the forcella, the route continues along the west face of the Tofana, following exposed ledges, steps and almost continuous fixed equipment. The panorama gradually opens over the Tofane, Lagazuoi and the Fanes group, creating a crescendo of emotions.
The traverse leads to the western ridge (2680 m), a key point where you can:
- descend in 30 minutes to Rifugio Giussani (2561 m) and return to Dibona via trail 403, or
- continue towards the summit of the Tofana di Rozes.
The final ascent to the summit
Those who continue face a more demanding section: an almost vertical wall and a steep diagonal traverse leading to the fore-summit at 3027 m. From here, the normal route leads to the top of the Tofana di Rozes (3225 m), one of the most iconic peaks in the Dolomites.
The descent follows trail 403 to Rifugio Giussani and then back to Rifugio Dibona.
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