Cinque Torri Loop & WWI Open Air Museum

• The Goal: To walk through the restored Italian frontline trenches and circle the base of the towering rock pillars.
• The Route Data:
  • Start/End: Rifugio Scoiattoli (Top of the chairlift)
  • How to get to the start: Take the Cinque Torri chairlift from Bai de Dones.
  • Trail Sequence: Trail No. 425 (The Great War Museum circuit) -> Base of Torre Grande -> Trail No. 439 back to the chairlift.
  • Distance: 3.5 km2.2 mi
  • Elevation: +150 m492 ft ascent / -150 m492 ft descent.
• The Reality: This is more of an educational walk than a strenuous hike. You will spend more time reading the information plaques and exploring the reconstructed stone huts and command posts than actually trekking. It is perfect for families and history buffs.

• The Goal: To gain more elevation and see the towers from a higher vantage point while visiting the historic Rifugio Nuvolau.
• The Route Data:
  • Start/End: Bai de Dones Parking
  • How to get to the start: Drive to the Cinque Torri chairlift base at Bai de Dones.
  • Trail Sequence: Trail No. 425 (uphill) -> Rifugio Scoiattoli -> Trail No. 439 to Rifugio Averau -> Ridge trail to Rifugio Nuvolau -> Descent via Trail No. 439/441.
  • Distance: 8.5 km5.3 mi
  • Elevation: +650 m2,132 ft ascent / -650 m2,132 ft descent.
• The Reality: This version adds the steep climb to Rifugio Nuvolau, which is the oldest refuge in the Dolomites, built in 1883. The route requires technical focus as it involves walking on tilted limestone slabs that are extremely slippery when wet. Beginners should be aware of the sheer vertical drop-offs surrounding the hut.

The most common way to reach the plateau is the 4-seater open chairlift. It runs from approximately 09:00 to 17:00 (check seasonal variations). For the 2024 season, a round-trip ticket costs €27.00.

There is a large parking lot at the Bai de Dones chairlift station. During August, this lot typically fills by 09:30. Alternatively, a narrow paved road leads to Rifugio Cinque Torri at the base of the rocks. This road is accessed from the SR48 at the Cianzopé turn-off (between Cortina and Bai de Dones). Warning: This road is often closed to private traffic during peak summer hours to prevent gridlock.

Mid-June to late September is the standard window. For photographers, visiting during Enrosadira (sunset) provides the best light on the limestone as the towers face south/east.

Conditions at 2,300 m7,545 ft change within minutes. Check the Belvedere or Lagazuoi webcams before departing Cortina.

The Recommendation: While the main loop is gravel, the WWI trenches contain uneven rock and loose scree. Sturdy hiking shoes with a Vibram sole are mandatory, especially for the limestone slabs on the way to Nuvolau.

The Invisible Threat: The plateau is entirely exposed with zero shade. The white limestone reflects UV rays intensely. Bring SPF 50+ and a hat, even if the air feels cool.

Always carry a windproof shell. Even on a sunny day, the gap between the towers creates a wind-tunnel effect that can drop the perceptible temperature by 5°C9°F to 10°C18°F instantly.

Cash is King: Rifugio Scoiattoli and Rifugio Cinque Torri usually accept cards, but Rifugio Nuvolau often suffers from connectivity issues. Carry at least €30 in cash for food and drink.