Excursion to the Sassongher, a must

Of all the excursions from Corvara, the one to the Sassongher is a “classic” for those who love to experience the Dolomites. The Sassongher, from which our Hotel takes its name, is a historic mountain rising up 2,665 metres that dominates Corvara in Alta Val Badia. From its heights, you can admire some of the most spectacular views of the Dolomites. Its charm is such that it attracts mountain lovers and enthusiasts from all over the world.

The Sassongher offers wonderful walks to admire the landscapes and unforgettable views. You can “aim for the summit” and gear up to walk to the peak and enjoy breath-taking panoramas, or simply start off on an easy to more challenging route to admire the different views of the landscapes along the entire pathway. For us at the Hotel Sassongher, going on a seasonal hike on the mountain of the same name that rises up behind us is a must, a wonderful experience that we often recommend to our Guests.

Excursions from Corvara to the Sassongher, prepared to depart

Climbing the Sassongher is a wonderful achievement that reminds us of the value and splendour of our land. It only requires a good pair of boots, a minimum amount of mountain experience and faith in one’s self. The Hotel Sassongher staff is ready to provide you with maps and guides, as well as valuable tips to ensure you have the best hiking experience! Are you ready? After a rich breakfast at the Hotel, a shuttle awaits to take us up to Colfosco, from where we take the cable car to Col Pradat, at 2,029 metres. Alternatively, the destination can be reached on foot with a nice walk, following the most direct path along the Strada 4A that extends from Corvara, passing close to the Hotel Sassongher then climbing up around 400 metres in altitude. Those who choose different routes can then meet at the Rifugio Utia Col Pradat.

The Itinerary

Our journey sets off once more from the rifugio (mountain hut). We take gravelled road no. 4 that, winding through the Stella Alpina valley, gradually continues, leading us closer to the great rocky walls of the mountain. At approx. 2,100 metres above sea level, we leave path 4 that leads to Lech de Ciampai and Puez, in order to take the no. 7 that rises up to the right, from where the crossing of the Dolomite rocks begins. It is a fascinating climb throughout which we can admire the Sella Group with the famous Val Mesdì. The path, which requires paying great attention due to the presence of rocks, leads us to the Forcella del Sassongher at an altitude of 2,435 metres.

The path that leads us to the summit is the same we will travel along on the descent, being rather steep and requiring us to measure our abilities and control of any vertigo. In order to prevent this occurring, glance at your shoulders every now and then and check to see how safe you really are. Certainly useful in the descent are trekking poles!

Now, let us continue on our path. Shortly after the Forcella, path no. 7 branches off. Take the climb to the right and after approx. 200 metres in altitude, you reach the Sassongher summit at 2,665 metres. The spectacle that awaits us is electrifying, whilst the panorama is indescribably “grandiose”, offering one of the most beautiful visions in all of Alta Badia: from the Sella Group to Gardenaccia and the Sasso della Croce.

The descent is always undertaken with a certain feeling of nostalgia, however it is best not to wait until too late. The weather in the mountains must be respected so as not to encounter unpleasant surprises.

Sassongher Escursions: key points

The “ascent” to the Sassongher is one of the range of hikes from Corvara, a true classic in Alta Badia, especially in summer.

Explore the itinerary with us and peruse the information provided in order to set out on the excursion in safety.

Meeting point: Hotel Sassongher (1,600 metres).

Route: Hotel Sassongher, shuttle to Colfosco or the “very direct” A4 path – Valle Stella Alpina – Forcella del Sassongher – Sassongher – Forcella del Sassongher – Valle Stella Alpina – return to the Hotel.

Walking time: about 4 hours.

Difference in Altitude: 950 metres from Colfosco or 1,060 metres from the Hotel Sassongher.

Difficulty: medium (easy with the Via Ferrata protected climbing route), suitable for those who do not suffer from vertigo.

Accessibility: adults and children, as long as they have mountain experience and are prepared for climbs at high altitudes.

Possibility to be Accompanied: yes, upon request.

Best season: from the end of May (after thawing) until late autumn (before the snow).

Useful tips: the evening prior to departing for the hike, always ask for updates on the weather conditions and about useful equipment.