Winter Activities

SCHOOL OF MOUNTAINEERING, SKI MOUNTAINEERING AND CLIMBING

ACTIVITY

Corso Italia, 14 Cortina d’Ampezzo Tel. +39 0436 860814 www.dolomitiskirock.com - info@dolomitiskirock.com

ANGELO DIBONA The best Ampezzo mountaineer, the most famous alpine guide and italian climbers of all time. He has born in Cortina d’Ampezzo in 1879.

In 1903 he started his incredible story in the Dolomites and mountain areas of Europe. In 1913 conquered the Aiguilles du Soriller with the Mayer brothers, now known as the Dibona Aiguilles. He brought his name and skills and those of his companions to the steepest and most challenging mountains of Switzerland, Austria, Germany and England too.

He died in Cortina in 1956.

As Carlo Gandini wrote in his book “Angelo was one of the greatest and best mountaineers in world alpine climbing history, he nevertheless remained quiet and modest in his old age and took on humble work when he could no longer work as a guide dying, as he had lived, in poverty and simplicity”.

MARIO DIBONA Ampezzana Alpine Guide Member of the Cortina Scoiattoli climbing club I’ve climbed almost all the classic and difficult routes of the Dolomites and beyond, in France, Spain, Africa and America, opening up new routes alone as well.

25 years on mountains around the world conquering the highest and most challenging peaks, from Everest in Tibet to K2 inPakistan, from cold Denali in Alaska to Africans’ hot rocks. Alongside my great passion for skiing, I’ve climbed the most beautiful mountains of the Alps from the glaciers of Mt. Toubkal in Africa, Mt. Elbrus in Georgia, Mt. McKinley in Alaska to the Norwegian fjords.

I’ve been an Alpine Guide and Instructor for 25 years and have acquired the experience and professionalism to ensure the highest level of safety to all those who want to try their hands on the mountains.

Snowshoe excursions Snowshoeing is a great way to experience the mountain in winter.

The snowshoes, or “ciaspe”, as they are known in local dialect, enable us to walk on snow without sinking too much. The sensation of almost floating on top of the snow, makes for fun and enjoyable excursions.

The constant movement of arms and legs required by this aerobic activity makes it ideal for strengthening and toning all of the body’s major muscle groups. DolomitiSkiRock organizes group excursions with overnight stays in comfortable and delightful

mountain refuges serving traditional home-made cooking. Snowshoeing is a low risk activity which does not require any technical skill, but allows you to enjoy the pleasure of physical movement immersed in unspoilt nature.

There are numerous excursions available for snowshoe enthusiasts and the itineraries largely follows the hiking trails used in summer through forests or at altitude. Along the way we look for traces of wild animals in the Ampezzo Nature Park, or visit the 7000 year old gravesite of the pre-historic Mondeval Man.

About 9:00/9:30 am National Park d’Ampezzo of Cortina, 3 Cime di Lavaredo, Misurina 3/5 hours As for downhill ski (technical ski-wear is recommended, including headwear, waterproof footwear and snow-leggings) Equipment includes snowshoes, telescopic poles, and a backpack for food, drink and necessities

Off-piste skiing For many skiers, making tracks in fresh snow is the ultimate ski experience. The emotions triggered when skiing through powder snow are hard to beat. The point of departure is reached by ski-lift, snowmobile, or helicopter, in order to ski down pristine valleys, couloirs and forests, completely untouched, giving a profound sense of freedom. The valley of Cortina with its unique Dolomite morphology, has more than 100 breathtaking off-piste itineraries, surrounded by steep rock faces.

In the forest it is not unusual to meet chamois, deer or wild hares. Off-piste

equipment required. Using a wider ski allows for better flotation on fresh snow. Avalanche kit is mandatory.

It is forbidden to ski outside the groomed pistes in the Cortina ski areas. DolomitiSkiRock organizes daily off-piste ski excursions as well as private and group lessons for those who wish to learn the techniques for skiing on powder. All the necessary equipment can be rented.

About 8:30/9:30 am Cortina, Marmolada, Sella, Arabba, Corvara, 3 Cime di Lavaredo, Misurina 3/5 hours As for downhill skiing Specific for off-piste, anti avalanche kit Any participant needs to be able to ski and feel secure on downhill slopes marked as red “Rosse�

Ski mountaineering The attraction of this activity is hard to describe in words, it must be experienced! Essentially it is the combination of two great mountain activities, giving you the satisfaction of climbing as well as the thrill of skiing.

In other words, ski mountaineering is the ultimate way in which to experience the mountain in winter.

The skis used for this activity are specially adapted with adjustable bindings that allow the heel to be raised when in walking position, and locked for the descent. When in walking mode, synthetic “skins” are

fixed under the skis that allow you to slide forward, but not backward.

The boots are similar to those used for downhill skiing, but with added flexibility that allows for the movement of walking during the ascent and locked into position for the descent. Technical equipment with avalanche kit recommended.

A reasonable level of fitness and ability to ski are prerequisite. There are numerous itineraries in Cortina and the surrounding areas, of varying length and levels of difficulty. All the necessary equipment can be rented.

About 8:00/9:00 am Cortina, Marmolada, Arabba, Sella, Misurina, 3 Cime di Lavaredo 3/5 hours As for downhill ski Specifict for off-piste, kit antivalanga Any participant needs to be able to ski and feel secure on downhill slopes marked as red “Rosse”

Sella Ronda Ski Tour Europe’s longest ski-circuit with more than 50 km of perfectly groomed slopes and high speed modern lift facilities, in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage Dolomites.

Ski across the 4 breathtaking Dolomite mountain passes, Campolongo, Pordoi, Sella and Gardena, all connected by lifts and slopes.

The tour takes you through four alpine valleys with small typical villages, characterised by old houses constructed almost entirely in solid wood. We stop for lunch in a traditional mountain refuge to savour some

delicious home-made dishes.

The Corvara, 40 minutes from Cortina, is the starting point for the ski-tour, which takes about 5 hours to complete.

Suitable for intermediate skiers.

DolomitiSkiRock organizes and accompanies the tour.

About 8:00/8:30 am Cortina, Passes Falzarego, Corvara 4/5 hours As for downhill skiing Any participant needs to be able to ski and feel secure on downhill slopes marked as red (“ Rosse”)

Ski safari touring Up to three full days of skiing down the best and most famous slopes getting to know, admiring and then remembering the best and most famous skiing areas in the Dolomites.

From the 1956 Cortina d’Ampezzo’s historic olympic slopes to Alta Pusteria at the border with Austria, via the highest peak of the Dolomites group of the Marmolada at 3328 meters of altitude with a never-ending descent of more than 12 km. A safari among peaks and glaciers, skiing on slopes full of snow and safe.

About 9:00 am Cortina, Arabba, Sesto Pusteria 4/5 hours As for downhill ski Normal downhill ski gear any participant needs to be able to ski and feel secure on downhill slopes marked as red “Rosse”

“La dolce Vita� ski tour

About 9:30 am 5 Torri, Lagazuoi, Armentarola 4/5 hours As for downhill ski Normal downhill ski gear

The 1960s movie La Dolce Vita, by Italian director Federico Fellini, captured the imagination of a generation with its message of living the good life by savouring and enjoying each and every moment.

The fascination with la Dolce Vita remains, as evidenced by the hugely popular slow-life modern day equivalent, an anti-dote to our express lifestyles, and the closely related slow-food and slow-ski movements that have evolved in the same spirit.

So why not take some time to indulge yourself slowly, renew your spirit and clear your mind? The opportunity awaits in the form of hushed soft nature, ready to receive us and regenerate our spirit in the simplest way, by enveloping us in an embrace that caresses the soul and warms the heart. An entire day with friends, dedicated to the sport of indulging your senses in the spectacular Dolomite mountains on perfectly groomed, un-crowded slopes, accompanied

by an experienced mountain guide.

Ski the most scenic slopes in the Alps, stop in traditional mountain refuges to enjoy breathtaking views and gastronomic specialtes. The brand new Ski Tour Dolce Vita in the areas of 5-Torri, Lagazuoi and Armentarola, is organized entirely in the slow-ski mood. Frequent breaks to enjoy a coffee, aperitifs and gourmet mouthfuls along the slope allow participants to appreciate not only the spectacular panorama, but also to savour the culinary specialties of the valley. The tour finishes in style with a table reserved at the legendary Averau mountain refuge, a top spot for gourmet at altitude, where mouthwatering mountain specialties and fine wine awaits us. And the icing on the cake: a soak in an outdoor hot-tub at an altitude of 2.137 meters by the Scoiattoli mountain refuge, sipping champagne while watching the sun setting behind the mountain... raising a glass to La Dolce Vita!

Winter climbs and Vie Ferrate (fixed rope routes) Anyone who loves a thrill and wants to put his or her courage and stamina to the test in a cold and hostile environment will certainly jump at the unique and memorable chance to climb an ice waterfall or a snow covered Via Ferrata with ice axes and sharpened crampons on hands and feet.

Ice waterfalls of varying length and difficulty, including some for beginners, form in and around Cortina over the winter.

A technique which uses correctly placed ice axes and crampons on the ice enables you to try your hand on

these spectacular climbs.

In the same way a long climb on a Via Ferrata in winter involves using techniques and specific equipment.

The increased difficulty caused by the cold and the snow should never be underestimated.

About 9:30/10:00 am Val Travenanzes, Sottoguda Marmolada, Landro, and many more...

According to individual experience and fitness Technical and warm suitable for snow activities Ice axes, crampons, harness, helmet, ski goggles Dolomiti Ski Rock can supply all technical equipment ( except crampon compatible walking boots)

Ski Touring in the Alps and world-wide Ski Touring excursions on glaciers and to high altitude peaks in the Alps and world-wide, are organized during suitable periods and in spring.

Summit Monte Bianco 4810 m.

Duration 3 days. Francia/Italia Summit Monte Gran Paradiso 4061 m. Duration of 2 days. Italia Summit Monte Gnifetti al monte Rosa 4552 m.

Duration 2 days. Italia Haute Route, Chamonix/Zermat.

Duration 6 days. Francia/Svizzera Lyngen fjords.

Duration 7 days. Norvegia Summir Monte Toubkal 4167 m.

Duration 6 days. Africa Summit Monte Elbrus 5642 m.

Duration 10/12 days. Georgia

Tips

Mountain Code of Conduct Prepare your itinerary in advance by consulting maps and tourist guides.

Wear suitable mountain walking boots and clothes and take appropriate equipment. Consult snow and weather reports taking into account that weather conditions in the mountains can change completely in the space of a few minutes.

Before you set off choose an itinerary which takes into account your abilities and physical condition. Over-estimating your abilities can be dangerous for you and your companions. Check that you know how to use your equipment and don’t forget to take a first aid kit. If you decide to go alone take a telephone or a two-way radio with you. It is essential to leave information on your itinerary and the time you expect to return home with someone. Mountain refuges have registers where you can leave details of where you set off from and your final destination. During your excursion follow the directions and signposts for your route. If you are ever in any doubt always ask information from mountain refuge managers and mountain guides.

If weather conditions worsen soon after you have set off retrace your steps to your starting point. In a storm do not take shelter in groups under isolated trees. It is better to shelter under a rock or in a cave as far as possible from water rivulets. Be prepared for cold and solar rays by taking walking boots, a jacket,a hat, sunglasses and sun cream.

If you are leaving way marked routes you must be roped together. If you see an accident call the emergency number 118 and give all the necessary information as calmly as possible.

Advice on emergency phone calls in the mountains and elsewhere Give your name, position (altitude, your co-ordinates if you have them) and a telephone number you can be reached at. Report what, when and where it happened.

Any obstacles for the helicopter such as fog, ski lifts, cable ways, hanging electricity wires or telephone lines should be reported to the emergency services immediately. If you need help, raise both hands so that your body is in a “Y” shape.

Meaning: “I need help”, “land here” (with your back to the wind), “Yes” (in answer to the pilot’s or crew’s question).

YES If you don’t need help raise one arm and keep the other at your side so that your body is in an “N” shape (no).

Meaning: “I don’t need help”, “don’t land”, “No” (in answer to the pilot’s or crew’s question).

NO

Piazza Angelo Dibona

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La Cooperativa - iso la p e donal

Hotel Concordia

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Municipio Hotel Vittoria

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