Rifugios and Via Ferrata in the Dolomites

Via ferrata, the iron way, perhaps some of the most fun you can have in Italy between courses of vino and pizza. I was lucky enough to eplore the Dolomites and some of the legendary rifugios near Cortina D'Ampezzo recently. You can walk or ride a tram to many of these beautiful alpine "huts" during the summer months, or you can choose the more exciting route via ferrata. These famous cable routes enable hikers/climbers to quickly pass through the jagged and exposed Dolomite, with the safety of a fixed line. Originally developed for speedy troop movements during the first World War, they have grown in popularity and offer a unique way to enjoy this spectacular range. Travelers can move swiftly and travel light, with very little climbing experience. Leave the heavy pack at home; no tent necessary. When coupled with the support of alpine huts, which can provide a sit down meal, beer, wine and lodging, it's easy to have a great time, with no shortage of adventure.

While staying at a campground near Cortina, we climbed two amazing routes, Fiames and Lagazoui tunnel. Fiames was a straight forward cable route that towers high above the valley, enabling a bird's eye view of Cortina. You can finish this route with a several hour hike through the Dolomite natural park--complete with suspension footbridges, tunnels and lush forest--or you can descend a simple gulley back into the valley. Lagazoui is a unique via ferrata, as it takes you up (or down) Mt. Lagazoui through a man made tunnel. It's an amazing experience, and offers rich insight into the history of the area. The tunnels were constructed during WWI as a means for Austrian and Italian troops to mount offenses. A small headlamp is useful for this route.

Berghutten en Europe: beta on every alpine hut in Europe, by country and region.
Via Ferratas of the Italian Dolomites: seems to be a good book to get you started planning