Day-by-day schedule
Day 1
After the meeting at the Padova refuge, we will immediately enter the heart of this corner of the Dolomites, which will accompany us from the very first step with the backpack on our shoulders: the Spalti di Toro dominate the splendid hollow of the hut, while the Cridola, which will see us pass under it on the third day, watches over a little further on.
The first, long climb of our trek will be rewarded by the most incredible view of the prince of this wonderful corner of the world: the Campanile di Val Montanaia!
With calm, we will finally reach the Pordenone refuge, which will host us for the night.
Day 2
Even today a long climb awaits us, but the embrace of the Monfalconi will make the path extremely pleasant so that the stop in the upper Val Monfalcon di Forni will arrive sooner than you think. From here there will be the possibility to go to one of the most impressive natural stone arches of the Dolomites, the Portone dei Monfalconi.
The descent to the Giaf refuge, which is the destination of the day, is dizzying but fun... for those who have never done it before, there will be the opportunity to refine their technique on the scree!
Day 3
A comfortable path will take us to the Cridola, the highest peak in the area, passing a few meters from the foot of walls that have made the history of mountaineering.
Reaching the refuge Padova will be the worthy conclusion of this three-day loop, during which we will have known beautiful mountains not only for the spires and walls, but also for the blooms of alpine chamedrio and rose of the alps and other inhabitants, that with a bit of luck we will have had the chance to meet: chamois and ibexes!
Useful information:
Where we are: this is a trekking tour, during which we will change structure every day and, above all, we will have to carry everything we need. Both accommodations are alpine refuges, where a genuine but spartan welcome is offered due to the logistical difficulties that the location entails. It is necessary to bring a sleeping bag with you, which is compulsory for overnight stays in the mountain huts.
Dinners and meals: breakfasts and dinners will be served in the refuge; lunches will be packed along the itinerary.
Atmospheric weather: the Oltrepiave Dolomites are one of the rainiest areas in Italy, and it is the norm that there is a downpour of water in the afternoon every day. Bring with you a jacket and waterproof over-pants. Don't forget to bring a backpack cover and maybe a plastic bag to make sure that the change arrives dry at the refuge.
Also, the cold is to be taken into account: in June temperatures are normally pleasant during the day but still very cool in the evening. In addition, it is not unlikely that it will snow again in case of bad weather: bring gloves and cap: you probably won't use them, but it's better not to be without them...