San Vito di Cadore
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2 days | 1 night
Mount Antelao
2200 m from Sun Bar
1250 m from Galassi Refuge
At 3,264 meters, Antelao is the second-highest peak in the Dolomites and the highest mountain in the Cadore region, earning it the nickname “The King of the Dolomites.”
The normal route to Antelao is considered one of the most rewarding ascents among the Dolomites’ 3,000-meter peaks. Its significant elevation gain and long, varied route make it a memorable challenge. However, the exposed sections at both the beginning and the end of the climb require excellent physical fitness, confidence on steep terrain, and sure-footedness.
Due to its northwestern exposure, snow and hard ice can persist even during the summer months, sometimes making the use of crampons necessary and increasing the overall difficulty of the ascent.
The technical sections are concentrated in the first part of the route, where exposed ledges and easy Grade I rock steps are overcome with short sections of straightforward scrambling. These lead to the summit of the “Bala,” where the Laste begin—large inclined slabs that became steeper and more debris-covered following the significant rockfall of 2014. Extra caution is required here, particularly when other parties are climbing above.
Approaching the final summit pyramid, near the site where the former Bivacco Cosi once stood before being destroyed in 2014, the last section of the climb begins. Exposed Grade II passages lead across the Oppel Gully, followed by an airy ridge that quickly brings climbers to the summit.
The reward is an extraordinary panoramic view over some of the most iconic peaks of the Dolomites, from a summit that truly deserves its royal title.
The itinerary below describes the ascent as a two-day experience, with an overnight stay at Rifugio Galassi, the ideal base for reaching the summit. For highly fit and experienced hikers, the climb can also be completed in a single day by using an e-bike approach to Rifugio Scotter, significantly reducing the length of the approach.
Please note: the timings indicated below are approximate and are based on the two-day itinerary with an overnight stay at Rifugio Galassi.
880 meters
Meet your Alpine Guide for an equipment check and briefing before departing in the early afternoon. A scenic hike of approximately 2.5 hours leads to Rifugio Galassi, where you can relax and enjoy the spectacular enrosadira—the magical glow of the Dolomite peaks illuminated by the colors of sunset. Dinner and overnight stay at Rifugio Galassi.
About 8/10 hours
1250 meters
Wake up early, have breakfast, then we will walk towards Forcella Piccola, where with a bit of luck you can see some ibex. From here, along a path initially easy and well marked and then increasingly steep and gravelly, to the start of the normal route. To the summit in about 3.30/4.30.
The descent is done backwards following the ascent route (about 4 hours to Rifugio Scotter – 4.40 to the car park).
II+ – PD+
July – September
3.264 m
Rely on our Mountain Guide for a fun hike in safety.
Please note: Reservations are required by the previous evening.
The price includes:
Guide service, technical equipment
Meeting time and place:
To be arranged with the Mountain Guide