Approach
The Trailhead at Pèio Fonti can be reached as follows:
From Bolzano/Bozen and Verona:
From Bormio:
From Milano:
From Lago di Como:
Route Description
Alltitude difference: 1350m from Doss dei Cembri
Difficulty: Hike
Duration: 3h
Trailhead: Pèio Fonti
Monte Vioz is the easiest of the summits in the central Ortler – Cevedale Group. In summer you don’t need any special equipment. The last couple of steps to the summit lead over a glacier ridge which in winter might be difficult to cross. The whole ascent is panoramic with great views of the Adamello- and Presanella groups which develop as you gain altitude. The best is spared for last: at Rifugio Mantovia del Vioz you get the first glimpses of Punta di San Mateo, Pizzo Tresero and the HUGE Ghiacchiaio dei Forni glacier. Further on up on the side summit you’ll be almost able to grab Cevedale and Palon de la Mare. Be prepared, however, to join A LOT of summiteers on your way…
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The first stage of the ascent is the cable car ride to Rifugio Doss dei Cembri at approximately 2300m of altitude. Here you start on a dirt road that eventually evolves into Sentiero Tedesco. Before it does turn right over a shoulder and start climbing to the first ridge south of Cima Vioz (2504m). Get to the northeastern side of the ridge and keep climbing always on this side. The trail winds its way towards Dente del Vioz (2905m) where it changes through a pass to the southwestern side of the ridge which it never leaves until the final ascent.
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At the pass near Dente del Vioz you’ll get your firt glimpses of the Presanella group with Cima Presanella gleaming in the sunlight to the south. The ridge leads you to the southern face of Monte vioz which has to be climbed in serpentines until you reach Rifugio Mantovia del Vioz. After a short rest advance on the southern summit ridge to the side summit (cross). The real summit is some 20m higher and a glacier ridge has to be crossed to get there.
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Essential Gear
After the hot summer of 2003 no other gear than the usual hiking stuff is needed. You’ll reach the Rifugio anyway, only for the final ascent along the summit ridge you might need crampons or ice axe. But this clearly depends on the weather and time of year.
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Images
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