CORTINA D'AMPEZZO HIKING FIELD GUIDE
On the Edge of the Lagazuoi: Cesco Tomaselli to Cima Fanis Sud
A full-day, high-exposure via ferrata on the Lagazuoi ridge that rewards seasoned climbers with dramatic views of Tofana di Rozes and the Marmolada glacier.
On the Edge of the Lagazuoi: Cesco Tomaselli to Cima Fanis Sud.
The Cesco Tomaselli via ferrata to Cima Fanis Sud on the Lagazuoi compresses everything climbers come to the Dolomites for: steep, exposed rock, athletic traverses and a summit that opens onto raw, alpine panoramas — most notably the west face of Tofana di Rozes and, beyond it, the glittering Marmolada glacier. The route is celebrated as one of the most beautiful and demanding ferrate in the range, a sustained, rewarding day for those who already know their way on iron and limestone.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Panoramas of Tofana and Marmolada
From the summit of Fanis Sud the view is uncompromising: the west face of Tofana di Rozes rises nearby while, in the distance, the Marmolada glacier glints — a defining Himalayan-like vista of the Dolomites.
Steep, Exposed, Athletic
The Cesco Tomaselli is notable for sustained technical difficulty: many very steep and exposed passages, smooth rock traverses and vertical walls that demand strength, surefooted movement and confidence on fixed protection.
A Complete, Demanding Day
Reaching Fanis Sud is only half the effort — the descent is long, complex and includes additional steep, exposed sections. The itinerary is a full, challenging day that rewards experienced ferratists with solitude and memorable climbs.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
This is a concentrated dose of Dolomite ferrata: steep pitches that keep you clipped in, exposed traverses that force attention to every move, and a summit that feels earned. The line is athletic and sustained; the approach, the summit and the lengthy, technical descent combine into a complete day of climbing and alpine navigation.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this route suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a full-day itinerary with a stated duration of seven hours.
Wear sport-appropriate mountain clothing (including a rain jacket), sturdy trekking boots or approach shoes, and bring a backpack with water and high-energy snacks. Personal safety gear (harness, helmet, via ferrata kit) is provided if you lack it.
The price includes a UIAGM mountain guide, liability insurance, use of common safety equipment and personal safety equipment for those without their own harness, helmet and ferrata kit.
The funicular (Lagazuoi round-trip ticket) and any guide expenses related to the funicular are not included and must be paid separately by participants.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the outing?
The excursion is listed as a seven-hour day.
What level of experience is required?
The route is suitable only for participants who already have experience with via ferrata; it features sustained technical and exposed passages.
What equipment is included?
The guide service includes use of common safety equipment and will provide personal safety equipment (harness, helmet, ferrata kit) for those without their own.
Is the Lagazuoi funicular ticket included?
No; the round-trip funicular ticket for Lagazuoi is not included and the guide-related funicular expense must be divided among participants.
What are the age and group-size limits?
Participants must be at least 16 years old and the outing is limited to a maximum of three people.
How much does the trip cost?
Pricing is tiered by group size: 350€ for one person, 175€ per person for two, and 130€ per person for three.
What should I expect on the descent?
The descent is long and complex, with several steep and exposed passages that complete the day’s technical challenge.