At the top of Campanile Basso, Brenta Dolomites!

Mountime | 27 lug 2023 |

 

Climbing in the Brenta Dolomites is an exhilarating experience in northern Italy. With limestone peaks, vertical walls and breathtaking views, it fascinates climbers from all over the world. The area offers several classic rock climbing options and a rich alpine culture. Safety is paramount, and hiring a mountain guide enhances the adventure. Respect the mountains, enjoy the challenges and preserve the environment.

 

One of the most famous places is Campanile Basso, one of the most famous rock pinnacles of all the Dolomites, nestled in the heart of the Brenta Dolomites. It is located in Madonna di Campiglio, and can be reached on foot in about 1.30-2 hours, passing through the Pedrotti or Brentei refuges.

Its soaring profile towards the sky has made generations of mountaineers dream, and to think that the first ascent was made in 1899, with the rudimentary means of the time, is truly impressive!
In 1897 Carlo Garbari, Antonio Tavernaro and Nino Pooli reached less than 40m from the summit, while two years later, two young Austrian geologists, Otto Ampferer and Karl Berger, managed to conquer the summit, bypassing the most challenging section of the face with a traverse aerial and spectacular that still leaves you stunned today. 

 

 

Nowadays, the "Via Normale" is a magnificent climb which, going up with a spiral path that takes advantage of the weakest points of the tower, allows you to retrace their deeds and realise what they were capable of. The length of the route is 350m, with a difficulty of 4° and a few passages of 5°.

The descent takes place with a series of abseils. It is advisable to stay overnight at the Pedrotti refuge or at the Brentei refuge the previous evening. Given the altitude (Campanile Basso reaches 2883m) and the northern exposure of the final part, it is better to plan the climb in the summer months and avoid too-cold days.

 

 

If you too want to climb Campanile Basso with a guide, fill out the questionnaire here on the site or email [email protected].

Happy adventures from Mountime guides!