Great War Tour
The prestigious Great War Tour covers approximately 80 kilometres around the renowned Col di Lana, a mountain emblematic of the First World War. Between 1915 and 1917, this area was the scene of intense fighting between the Italian Alpini, the brave Austrian Kaiserjäger and the skilled German Alpenkorps. Today, Col di Lana stands as a memorial, and the ski route dedicated to it is also known as the ‘Giro della Pace’ (Tour of Peace).
Along the route, the surrounding landscapes offer panoramic views of famous peaks such as Civetta, Monte Pelmo, Tofane, Lagazuoi, Conturines, Settsass, Sassongher, Sella and Marmolada, which characterise the Alpine environment with their imposing presence. It is important to note that the Great War Tour is a challenge reserved exclusively for expert skiers.
To complete the entire itinerary, you need to allow for a continuous effort of six to eight hours; tackling it in a single day therefore requires an early start in the morning. Alternatively, you can split the experience over two days to explore the various ski areas along the route in greater depth.
The preferred starting point for enthusiasts embarking on the Great War Tour is the picturesque Civetta area; however, other options are also available, such as San Cassiano, Corvara, Arabba or Malga Ciapela.
Prepare to push your limits and enjoy an unparalleled skiing experience, characterised by a deep sense of remembrance and gratitude towards those who sacrificed so much for peace.
The spectacular descents stretching from Lagazuoi to Armentarola and from Punta Rocca to Malga Ciapela, crossing the Marmolada glacier, are a real spectacle. With its 12 kilometres of pure adrenaline, this slope stands out as the longest in the Dolomites.
Main features:
- Length: Approximately 80 km in total, of which about 30 km are ski slopes.
- Duration: Between 6 and 8 hours, including stops.
- Difficulty: Suitable for intermediate skiers; however, good time management is required.
- Route: Includes slopes, ski lifts and sections to be covered by ski bus or taxi (often subject to a charge).
Highlights and stages:
- Col di Lana: The nerve centre of the route, known for its bloody battles (‘Col del Sangue’ or ‘Pass of Blood’).
- Open-air museum: Military posts, tunnels, trenches and fortresses that preserve the memory of the ‘White War’.
- Landscapes: Views of Civetta, Pelmo, Tofane, Lagazuoi and Marmolada.
- Places involved: Alta Badia, Passo di Campolongo, Arabba, Porta Vescovo, Malga Ciapela, Alleghe, Rifugio Fedare, Cinque Torri and Lagazuoi.
How to travel:
- Clockwise: Orange signage; recommended departure from Falzarego towards the Cinque Torri.
- Anti-clockwise: Green signs; recommended departure from Badia.
- Equipment required: Dolomiti Superski ski pass for access to the lifts; it is also advisable to have cash available for any additional connections.
- Period: Ideal between February and March, when conditions are optimal.
The Great War Tour is a unique experience that allows you to experience the history and beauty of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on skis.
