Alta via Günther Messner

Overview

The Alta Via Gunther Messner is an expansive high-altitude itinerary along the western ridge of the Odle di Eores, with an open setting and extensive views throughout. Technical difficulties are limited, but the route remains on alpine terrain and its overall length requires good fitness. It takes in the Monte Tullen and Monte Rovina area, offering varied and rewarding progress.

Approach

The starting point is on the road from Chiusa up Val di Funes towards Passo delle Erbe. After San Pietro, shortly before a junction signed for Bressanone, there is a pull-off on the right where you can park.

Walk back a short distance along the road to the Alta Via signs, then climb into the woods. The path crosses an exposed traverse on a loose slope, with simple protection in place, and leads to two water springs. Continue around Col Magrei to the junction with trail 32A from Santa Maddalena. Climb to Sella di Col Magrei (2160 m), where the view opens towards the Odle.

Stay on the Alta Via, ignoring the trail coming up from Rifugio Zannes. Enter a secluded valley and climb gradually to a saddle, from which the summit of Monte Tullen is a recommended detour. The ascent follows a ridge with short exposed sections and a brief equipped passage to the summit cross (2653 m). Return to the saddle and resume the main route.

Via Ferrata

Continue towards the ridge, where the equipped passages begin. The first climbs a steep small gully directly to the crest. Then head towards Monte Rovina (2646 m), skirting its northern side across a second protected section.

From the summit area, leave the main ridge for a long traverse of the southern slope, with constant climbs and descents and several exposed points. This includes a more delicate passage up a short, unprotected grade I gully, where the ground requires care.

The route gradually loses height, crosses a wooden footbridge and reaches a metal ladder over a rock wall. Beyond the ladder, the path continues on the northern side beneath imposing cliffs to an important trail junction. Ignore the descent towards Rifugio Genova and follow trail 4 uphill to Forcella de Putia (2357 m).

Descent

From Forcella de Putia, the return traverses the northern slopes of the Odle di Eores. The path is broad and clear, following gently undulating terrain and ignoring the branches descending towards Passo delle Erbe. It gradually returns to the parking area along the outward route. Allow about 2 hours for the return and about 7 hours for the full outing.

Useful Notes

The Alta Via Gunther Messner is a highly scenic and rewarding itinerary. Limited technical difficulties occur in an alpine setting requiring care and steady progress. The few more delicate passages are concentrated in short sections without fixed protection. Given the length of the route, plan for stable weather. A good map of the area is particularly useful for navigating the complete itinerary.