Sentiero degli Austriaci at Passo Tonale is a truly unique alpine itinerary, located between Lombardy and Trentino in the heart of the Rhaetian Alps.
It is a beautiful historic ridge route following the Austro-Hungarian fortifications of the First World War, through high-altitude landscapes, open views and a wild natural setting that is still little visited. Along the route, sections of trail, ridge passages and historic elements perfectly integrated into the rock alternate naturally.
This is a complete experience combining mountaineering, history and nature, enriched by the presence of alpine wildlife such as ibex and chamois, often visible among the granite blocks and old military structures.
Highlights
- Historic World War I alpine ridge.
- Panoramic and wild high-altitude environment.
- Little-visited itinerary away from tourist routes.
- Alternation of trail sections, ridge passages and natural equipped elements.
- Possible sightings of ibex and chamois.
- Historic military rocks and tunnels along the route.
Best for
Sentiero degli Austriaci is ideal for experienced hikers and mountain lovers who want to experience a panoramic, historic alpine itinerary in a high-altitude environment.
It is perfect for dynamic people who are used to walking in the mountains, comfortable with exposure and looking for an intense, varied and immersive day between nature and history.
Program
- Meet the guide at Passo Tonale (1,900 m) and take the chairlift up to Malga Valbiolo (2,243 m). From here, continue on foot along a steep alpine trail leading to Cima Tonale Orientale (2,697 m), the access point to the spectacular and panoramic south-west ridge.
- The itinerary develops through a wild and continuous high-altitude environment, following the ridge line to Torrione d’Albiolo (2,697 m), with a succession of airy passages and open views over the surrounding Alps.
- The return to the valley can follow different variants, depending on conditions and the group’s energy: through Valeta da Strin and the Città Morta area, or via Passo dei Contrabbandieri (2,680 m), with the possible use of the chairlift for the final section.
This is a flexible and adaptable itinerary, designed to shape the day around the group and the desired length of the alpine experience.
Pricing & Logistics
- The cost of the ascent varies depending on the number of participants and the chosen program.
- The price includes: Mountain Guide service, itinerary planning, logistical organisation and technical equipment.
- The price does not include: transfers, lift facilities, personal expenses and any extras.
- The Sentiero degli Austriaci itinerary can be combined with other via ferratas, climbing routes or glacier hikes in the area, creating personalised multi-day programs in the Adamello-Presanella group or the nearby Brenta Dolomites.
Requirements
- Good physical condition.
- Habit of walking on alpine terrain.
- Confidence with exposure and airy environments.
- Ability to manage long days in the mountains.
- Suitable technical clothing, with trekking boots or light mountaineering shoes.
Season
The itinerary is recommended in summer and early autumn, when high-altitude conditions are more stable and the ridge is fully accessible. Ideal period: June to October.
Why a Mountain Guide
- Greater safety on the ridge and exposed sections.
- Professional management of pace and itinerary.
- Reading of terrain and weather conditions.
- Insight into the historical and natural features of the route.
- A more complete, fluid and conscious experience.
- Technical support throughout the day.
Your Experience
An alpine hike along an itinerary that brings together history, mountaineering and high-altitude landscapes, in one of the most fascinating settings on the Adamello side.
Do you want to immerse yourself in a wild setting at the foot of the Adamello Glacier?
Contact us to receive more information, check available dates or organise a tailor-made program together.