Galleria Lagazuoi — Local services in Cortina d'Ampezzo

An amazing experience, but one that shouldn't be underestimated.

What was added on to our itinerary as a curiousity became one of the highlights of our trip to the Dolomites.

We caught the bus from Cortina and up to the Passo Falzarego and hired helmets and head torches from the small hut (easily missed) next to the cable car station.

Most people catch the cable car up and then walk down the tunnels, but we decided to go uphill. It took about 45-50 mins to reach the foot of the cliff and tunnel entrance. Not particularly well signposted, but the steady stream of people emerging was a giveaway.

Before entering the tunnels there is a short section with ledges, steps and cables, which proved a taster of things to come (see photo). One of our party isn't a fan of heights and this was on their limit.

Once inside, the torches came on and we began our ascent. It's absolutely amazing, with occasional windows cut in the rock that offer unparalleled views across the valley. There are also a few recreated elements that capture the dark history of these tunnels in the first world war.

This has been described as technically easy, but it is physically demanding (especially going up) and features some exposed stretches, including a narrow ridge near the top. I would not recommend that stretch to inexperienced hillwalkers in anything over light winds. Signage isn't great either. Whilst there are occasional signs on the wall, it's not always clear where to go if you haven't got a good grasp of Italian. There are lots of nooks to explore, but you can't really get lost. If all else fails and you're heading to the top, aim the 'antisummit'.

At the time of our visit the last cable car down was at 5pm, so we had plenty of time to enjoy the views, but did have a long wait for the bus, which is very sporadic in the afternoon. Check times before travelling.

Overall, an unforgettable challenge. The reward of reaching the summit was certainly...

No wait. The walk from the cable car to the entrance is for those with a head for heights. Very secure with loose chain as a guide, but not for those with a strong fear. To be fair, all of this is very solid but not all will tolerate. The tunnels themselves, which I descended (groups go both ways) are steep, dark, and on my day, wet. They have solid chains to support your weight for those with weaker knees. Room is adequate for 1.5 person to pass in the chambers. While impressive in scope, I think the tour is better served with a guide to discuss the history and significance of what you are descending through. Otherwise it's a dark descent without context. Mind the reader that this is free, minus the cable car, and it's a nice appreciation of a different Era and a war that the US learns less about. I think the bunkers and positions on Cirque Torre are just as impressive without the effort. Bring a solid Headlamp or rent from the business at the cable car company. My personal Headlamp was not strong enough and I ended up using my cellphone as an adequate...

Brilliant fun! No longer need spikes up top and full via ferrata gear is an over kill. But bring gloves and rent helmet and / or headlamp at the hut by the cable car. Though iPhone would do in a pinch. I am 5’5” and the helmet saved my head a dozen times especially branching off from the main path.

Hiked on Sunday in mid September - much less crowded than 5 Torri on the weekend.

There seemed to be more people coming down than going up. I personally prefer hiking up because the stairs are pretty slippery and it’s easier to pull yourself on the cable - again bring gloves - for leverage than use it to avoid slipping going downhill. My old knees certainly appreciate this.

There are a few side tunnels / caves to explore that are quite extensive and at moments it became too eerily quiet for too long on my own, kept things...