Hello!
I'm planning my first via Ferrata trip (Dolomites) for mid June this year and thought I'd seek the advice of the hive mind.
I'll be going with my partner, who's pretty active, but doesn't climb. I've sold the trip as 'hard scrambling' or 'go ape in the mountains'. We're planning on camping in Cortina and staying for a week, most likely driving from Venice.
I've a few questions after a few days of trawling forums, which hopefully someone can shed some light on.
Has anyone camped in Cortina before, and is there a possibility of booking pre pitched tents? If we spend a week in my snug 2 berth tent there's a good chance I'll come back single. It would also save space in the suitcase.
What's the best guidebook for the Cortina region? Is the rockfax one worth the investment? It looks pretty cumbersome, and it's easier to stick to my 'hard scrambling' sales pitch if I get the cicerone guide.
I've read that not all lifts are open so early in the season, has anyone had issues with this?
I've never tried via Ferrata before, I was planning on bringing a short rope in case there are any abseils required, and it could be useful if something were to go wrong. Is this sensible?
Finally, if anyone has any lanyards tucked away in a cupboard that may be up for sale. Please feel free to drop me a message!
Thanks!
-Jack