©Giacomo Pompanin
©Giacomo Pompanin
An approximately one-hour walk in the woods leads to one of the historic mountain refuges in Cortina d'Ampezzo, where time seems to have stood still: the Cinque Torri refuge (inaugurated in October 1904!), nestled in a spectacular setting at the foot of the 5 Torri, one of the most famous natural climbing walls in the Dolomites.
The hike starts at the parking lot next to the 5 Torri chairlift. Follow the signposts of the hiking trail no. 425. Before starting the ascent, we recommend a short detour to Lake Bai de Dones, at the beginning of the route on the left. Then take the easy, gently rising hiking trail that leads through a larch and spruce forest. After about one hour you will get out of the wood and be overwhelmed by the panorama. It’s not by chance that mountaineers from all over the world, dukes and rulers frequented this place and the Cinque Torri Refuge, a mountain hut steeped in history. In addition to the convenient location, this refuge offers a remarkably good cuisine. If you want to feel the atmosphere and taste the dishes of the past, reinterpreted by chef Massimo, this stop is an excellent choice. We suggest you to taste "Casunziei", a sort of ravioli filled with seasonal vegetables: beetroot, peppers, potatoes or pumpkin.
TIP
You can reach the Cinque Torri Refuge also by car via the Great Dolomites Road SS 48. About 11 km from the centre of Cortina, in the district of Cianzopè, turn left into a small road that is freely accessible in summer, except in August, when it is closed from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. A shuttle service is available on payment during this period. You should always check the opening hours of the road as they may be subject to changes, by calling the Regole d'Ampezzo office: +39 0436 – 2206.
From the Cinque Torri refuge, a short, easy walk leads to the Scoiattoli refuge in about 30 minutes: both face the 5 Torri, which are a paradise for climbers from all over the world.
