Is climbing in the Alps the natural next step after hiking? We say yes!
Our rustic valley, with its glacier right on the main ridge of the Alps, is a true paradise for anyone who loves scrambling up bare rock. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, we’ll show you the most beautiful crags and via ferratas in the Italian Alps – including safety tips for the whole family.

Larix Via Ferrata in Maso Corto

In summer, the Larix Via Ferrata awaits you at the foot of the Kurzrasbach waterfall. Until further notice, you can climb it even now, in October. As soon as the weather changes though, it will be closed for winter. The first, more demanding section of the Larix follows the little stream with rope bridges, sky ladders, a rope slide and some quite challenging climbing passages, interspersed with easier walking sections. In the upper part, there are some more shorter, flatter climbing passages. Special feature: the Alpin Trail mountain hiking path (marked with red crosses) runs in parallel, so groups can split up – some climbing, others hiking.
The entry point is behind the Roter Kofel chairlift, the exit above the Teufelsegg hut. Graded medium difficulty (C), the ferrata involves about 410 metres of elevation gain and takes roughly 3.5 hours. The effort is worth it: at the top, a well-deserved break at the Teufelsegg hut awaits.

Hoachwool Via Ferrata

If you’re looking for a real challenge, the Hoachwool Via Ferrata in the Italian Alps, directly opposite Reinhold Messner’s Juval Castle, is the place to go! This difficult route (D up to E/F), with over 600 metres of elevation gain, demands both strength and endurance. If you like, you can combine the climb with a visit to Juval Castle, the very first Messner Mountain Museum, which houses an expedition cellar and unique works of art collected by the legendary mountaineer on his travels.
Parking is available at Juval Castle. From there, follow the stream to the starting point. The descent is either on foot via the hiking path or by cable car. Be sure to bring plenty of water – the exposed southwest-facing wall can get very hot in summer! When wet, the earthy sections may become slippery.

Mastaun Crag

About a 20-minute walk beyond the Mastaun hut in the Mastaun high valley near Madonna di Senales, you’ll find an impressive 70-metre rock wall. It features technically demanding multi-pitch routes in an exposed location (more are planned), designed for experienced climbers.
To reach the crag, follow the signs from Madonna di Senales to the Mastaunhof hut, where you’ll also find free parking (unattended).

Juval Crag

Juval Castle, the summer residence of South Tyrol’s extreme mountaineer Reinhold Messner, towers majestically on a massive granite rock at the entrance to Val Senales. This very rock is a climbing paradise – one of the largest and most popular crags in South Tyrol.
With up to three pitches and difficulties ranging from 3 to 8a, families with children as well as seasoned climbers can ascend up to 30 metres toward the sky. Bouldering routes are also available. The climbing season lasts from April/May well into late autumn.
Parking is conveniently located right by the rock, and a cozy café offering coffee and cake is just around the corner.

Ötzi Rope Park

The Ötzi Rope Park is the high-ropes adventure course for the whole family, located at the end of Lake Vernago. There are 13 courses with 180 platforms in total, ranging from easy to very difficult, at heights between 2 and 30 metres. A giant swing spans the gorge with a 40-metre diameter and a 10-metre free fall. And with three ziplines adding up to more than 1 km of total length, you’ll whizz across the gorge and along the stream all the way to the lake.
The rope park is open from May to early November and is also perfect for company outings or birthday parties (barbecue equipment provided). Safety briefings and high-quality gear are, of course, included.

Safety when Climbing in the Alps

To enjoy South Tyrol’s via ferratas and crags safely, it’s essential that you bring the right equipment and follow a few basic rules: you’ll need a harness, via ferrata set, helmet, suitable shoes, gloves, weather-appropriate clothing and sun protection.
Before setting out, always double-check each other’s equipment (the four-eyes principle). On a via ferrata, never unclip both carabiners at the same time. Keep your distance from others and avoid dislodging rocks.
Always check the weather forecast before you go (thunderstorms and wet rocks are dangerous!) and choose routes that match your technical skills and stamina. Don’t forget enough water and provisions!
If you don’t (yet) have your own climbing gear, you can rent it at Service Stricker or Ski Factory in Maso Corto.

Climbing in the Alps with Children

For families with kids who would like to go climbing in Val Senales, we especially recommend the Ötzi Rope Park and the Larix Via Ferrata with its parallel hiking trail.
In order for everyone to have fun, you should consider these extra tips:
Children need equipment adapted to their size and weight. When climbing, especially the first few times, fun should always come before performance. Expect kids to tire more quickly and need frequent breaks. Due to their smaller height, obstacles that seem easy to adults can be much harder for them – ideal difficulty levels are usually 3–5. Remember that children cool down faster and need more frequent snacks to keep going.


Ready for unforgettable climbing adventures on the via ferratas of the Italian Alps in Val Senales? Then get your adventure at the Alpin Arena Senales!