1. Porze – Ferrata Cima Palombino (2,599 m)

Arrival and starting point

Until San Candido, there to the right towards Austria, through Sillian. In Obertilliach (Tyrolean Gailtal Valley) at an unimposing crossing turn towards south. First downhill, then uphill into the Valley of the “Dorfer River” (Obertilliacher Valley) and park at the lake Klapfsee (1680m). At the weekends it’s possible to continue driving on the gravel road until the Porze hut (1942 m).

Characteristic and general information

The Porze (Cima Palombino 2599m) is located on the ridge, on the border between Austria and Italy and those peaks lead two easy and attractive via ferrata (which are suitable for crossings and are also close to the Carnian high way). The area is historical seen very interesting. Both saved tracks are marked and it is possible to make them in both directions. Recommended is the crossing from the east towards the west. The ascent in the east has more via ferrata meters and runs through a ledge in an impressive wall on Italian soil. The western ascent has a few exposed passages.

Track-Info

Eastern Via Ferrata (Gamssteig/Ferrata Camoscio) 180 m saved - ca 1,5 hours.
From the Porze Hut to the Tilliacher saddle (Passo Dignas, 2.094m, national border). Further on Italian territory on path number 172 to the Ferrata East. Through the steep wall and then across walking ground to the peak.

Western Via Ferrata (Austriasteig): 120 m belayed – ca. 1,5 hours.
From Lake Klapfsee first uphill ascent towards Porze ridge (directly or towards Porze hut). From Porze ridge trough exposed spots on leaky hooks and towards stairs to the peak.

Additional information regarding the difficulty

Difficulties mostly at version A and stairs, on a short track until B, no fear of heights is required.

Descent

Descent towards through one the marked Via Ferrata.

Note

This crossing can also be done as a part of the Carnian Highway/Alta Via Carnica.