Sentiero Olivieri on Tofana, a nice equipped path above Cortina

The Sentiero Olivieri is a nice equipped path facilities that joins Rifugio Pomedes (2303 m) with rifugio Ra Valles (2470 m). It is important to not confuse the Sentiero Olivieri with the similar sounding Via ferrata Giuseppe Olivieri, as the latter is an challenging and exposed via ferrata up the vertical south arete of Punta Anna, the large buttress located in front of Tofana di Mezzo.

As in many other cases, such as the "Sentiero ferrato Ivano Dibona" the term "path" indicates that the route mainly follows a series of rocky ledges and terraces, with an occasional vertical section. Unlike the eqipped path, the "Via ferrata" on the other hand ascend vertical rock faces and are, depending on the actual ferrata, more or less exposed.

Having said that, it's now time to return to the topic of this post, namely the description of Sentiero Olivieri. This pleasant and short "walk across the peaks" is an ideal route for those who have never attempted a via ferrata before and wish to learn the ropes on terrain that is not too difficult. Furthermore, Sentiero Olivieri offers a magnificent view onto Cortina and the d'Ampezzo valley and is certainly worth exploring.

You are almost guaranteed to meet chamois as the grassy slopes above Rifugio Duca d'Aosta provide food and warmth for these agile animals. If you walk along the Sentiero Olivieri, it's difficult not to encounter them at some point.

TOPO: Sentiero Olivieri, Tofana di Mezzo