Via Ferratas of the Italian Dolomites: Vol 2 Southern Dolomites, Brenta and Lake Garda

Guidebook to the via ferrata routes of the southern Italian Dolomites. This guide covers via ferrata routes in the major mountain ranges of Civetta, Schiara and Pala as well as those to the west in the Brenta. A significant addition (and, as far as we are aware, not previously published in any English language guidebook) is the inclusion of routes around the northern end of Lake Garda and the Piccole Dolomites north of Vicenza. Here the mountains are generally lower and you can enjoy ferrata climbing over a much extended season, with some routes accessible for most of the year.

This is the second in a series of two guidebooks to the via ferratas of the Italian Dolomites. (Volume One covers the eastern, northern and central areas of the Dolomites, while Volume Two completes the picture, focusing on the southern, Brenta and Lake Garda areas.)

Seasons - Mainly mid-June until the end of September in the higher mountains, avoiding August if you can! Lake Garda area can often be climbed year round.

Centres - Bolzano, Valle di Primiero and San Martino di Castrozza, Agordino, Belluno, Bassano del Grappa, Vicenza, Brenta, Trento, Riva, Lake Garda, Rovereto.

Difficulty - All grades of routes from straightforward short sections of 'protected walking' to serious and strenuous mountain expeditions involving high levels of exposure and commitment.

Must Sees - All the via ferratas described are great, but don't tackle something too hard too quickly.