Via ferrata Ra Bujela combines addictive, near-vertical scrambling with picturesque wooden bridges and incredible vistas eastward over Cortina and southward toward Monte Sorapiss and Croda da Lago. The whole route, including the approach, can be completed within 3 to 4 hours, making it the ideal half-day adventure. You can even shorten it to 2 hours using the chairlift, but I will discuss this further in my post.
Total roundtrip distance (incl. approach)
7.5 kilometres / 4.6 miles
Elevation gain
610 meters / 2000 feet
Difficulty
intermediate (B/C)
Time required
3-4 hours
Overview of the approach
The approach starts at a restaurant called Baita Piè Tofana, near the Duca D’Aosta chairlift. The hike starts just behind the restaurant on path no. 407. To begin with, it is a wide-access road. After about 100 meters, it branches off to the right and follows a windy path through the forest. It then emerges onto a narrow path directly at the face of Tofana Di Mezzo. It then turns left and follows path no. 405, called Sentiero dei Camosci until it reaches the Duca D’Aosta hut.
TIP: If you need (or want) to shorten your approach, you can take the Rumerlo Duca d’Aosta chairlift. The lift runs from mid-June until the end of September. You can view the prices and running time here. By taking the chairlift, you will save ca. 427m of elevation gain and 2 hours of your time.
The map of the via ferrata
Important info & route description
From the Duca D’Aosta hut, continue uphill, where a sign for VF Ra Bujela can be seen on a rock slab. Heading directly toward the base of the towering outcrop of Ra Bujela leads you to the start of the climb.
Keep your eyes peeled for the plaque marking the official name of the climb, “Via Ferrata Maria e Andrea Ferrari al Ra Bujela.” The ascent starts immediately in grade C, but pegs and iron rods have been cleverly placed to ensure the scrambling is never overly strenuous. Prior climbing experience isn’t necessary on these routes, just steady feet, a sense of adventure, and a lack of acrophobia.
The two scenic bridges lie just before and after the halfway point of the via ferrata. They are fantastic places to admire the surrounding mountains and Cortina. After the bridges, the grade gets substantially easier on a craggy rock on a much shallower pitch. Via ferrata Ra Bujela leads to a tiny summit, with about enough room for 2-3 people.
The descent from the summit initially retraces the ascent but then branches off and downclimbs a short knob before traversing further north to flatter ground. The cable eventually ends, the route turns right and heads down a steep scree slope before returning to Rifugio Duca d’Aosta. From here, you can take the cable car down or retrace the hiking path of ascent.
When to go: Mid-June – October (with chairlift until September)
Trail numbers: 407, 405
Highest point: 2270 meters / 7450 feet
Getting there
Via ferrata Ra Bujela can be reached from Cortina D’Ampezzo using a gondola and a chairlift or private transport.
By gondola
From Cortina take the Col Drusciè gondola. From the top, walk the forest road for 1 km (20 minutes) to get to Baita Pié Tofana restaurant. Then, either continue with the hike or take the Duca D’Aosta chairlift.
By car
It is a short 15-minute drive from the centre of Cortina. There’s ample parking near the Baita Pié Tofana restaurant, but it does fill up quickly during the high season.
Overnight stay & dining possibilities
There are several dining options along the route, so there is no need to carry a lot of food with you. I recommend stopping for a meal at the Duca D’Aosta hut. It has the best views out of the restaurants that I marked on the map. You can also stay here overnight should you want to tackle other via ferratas in the Tofane group.
Where to stay nearby
Cortina D’Ampezzo is a central hub for exploring the Dolomites, and this town has no shortage of fantastic hotels. However, you can expect to pay higher prices than usual. Below are a few of my recommendations. If you book through my links, I receive a small commission at no extra cost.
TIP: View my comprehensive guide about Cortina D’Ampezzo, which features top hikes via ferratas and photography spots.
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Travel resources for the Dolomites
Shop my via ferrata gear essentials
Black Diamond Helmet
Rockfall is a significant concern on via ferrata routes. Unbeknownst to you, other climbing groups above you may accidentally dislodge a small rock and send it down the mountain. If it hits you on the head, it could have serious consequences. A helmet on your head (not inside your backpack) is necessary.
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Black Diamond Momentum Harness
Another must-have on a via ferrata route is a climbing harness. A harness works as an anchor point for your via ferrata lanyard. Try it before your trip to ensure it fits snugly without limiting your movements. Aim for a lightweight harness that will be comfortable to wear between the cable-protected sections when hiking.
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- Shop Men’s on Amazon (Worldwide) / Backcountry (US)
Edelrid, Camp or Black Diamond Via Ferrata Lanyard
A via ferrata lanyard connects the climber and their harness to the cables along the route. Its two arms and a hidden extra coil work as an energy absorption system in case of a fall. The two carabiners at the end of the lanyard clip into the cable. Make sure the carabiners are equipped with the palm squeeze mechanism. It’s the safest and most comfortable.
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Black Diamond Crag Gloves
The gloves protect your hands from cuts and scratches you may otherwise get if you haul yourself on the cable without them. I prefer full-finger gloves for extra protection against blisters. If your hands sweat quickly, go for the fingerless version.
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Salewa Wildfire Edge Approach Shoes
This is my go-to pair of hiking shoes for more accessible trails or via ferrata, where I don’t need extra ankle support. They provide excellent grip on the rock and are very durable.
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Reeloq Smartphone Securing System
If you want to take great photos on a via ferrata without worrying about losing your phone, Reeloq is the best tool for it. It’s a smartphone-securing system that allows you to use your phone on any adventure. This has been a great addition to my tool arsenal.
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