Monte Elmo e Rifugio Sillianer

DESCRIPTION
Very panoramic round trip between Italy and Austria.
Explore with us a mountain excursion that will lead you to the discovery of breathtaking views and the incredible beauty of the Val Pusteria. The goal of this adventure is Monte Elmo, a destination that will never cease to surprise you with the magnificence of the views offered from its summit. While the mountain itself has its charm, it is truly the panorama that opens up from the top that will capture your attention: an extraordinary spectacle that embraces the majestic Sesto Dolomites and extends as far as the Austrian side.
Monte Elmo, one of the splendid mountains of the Carnic Alps, lies on the border between Italy and Austria, offering a privileged position overlooking the Val Pusteria and the fascinating Sesto Dolomites.
Although the itinerary does not present any particular technical difficulties, it is good to keep in mind that the main challenge lies in its length, which reaches 15 km, and in the significant altitude difference of 1044 meters to be tackled. This excursion is suitable for those who like to challenge themselves and enjoy a path that offers surprises at every step.
However, for those who wish to slightly simplify the itinerary, it is possible to opt for the ascent with the ski lifts starting from Sesto. This option is perfect for those who want to focus on the spectacular panoramic views without having to face the entire climb on foot.
In any case, this excursion will take you through landscapes that will leave you breathless, and the view from the top of Monte Elmo will be an indelible memory.

ITINERARY
From the parking area at the Mitterberg Fort in Sesto (1582 m) follow trail sign 13 and go along a stretch of paved road which then becomes a dirt road. The actual path begins from the entrance to trail marker 3A. When you get close to the summit, turn right and follow path 3 to get to the Rifugio Sillianer (2447 m). Going back along the same road, at a certain point, turn right following the indication Heimkehrerkreuz. Once you reach the panoramic Heimkehrerkreuz (2370 m) you go back slightly and turn right going down until you take path 403, which then becomes path 20, and climb up to the summit of Monte Elmo (2434 m). Now descend from path 4 to the Rifugio Gallo Cedrone (2200 m). Descend following the dirt road and passing by the Rifugio Larice (1850 m) you return to the parking lot.

EXCURSION DATE
August 13, 2023

STARTING POINT
Mitterberg Fort of Sesto

REFRESHMENT POINT
Rifugio Sillianer (2447 m), Rifugio Gallo Cedrone (2200 m) and Rifugio Larice (1850 m)

AUTHOR’S SUGGESTIONS
Go around in a counterclockwise direction.

SAFETY TIPS
The viability of the proposed itinerary, like all mountain morphology, is subject to environmental changes due to natural events and weather conditions. Therefore, before leaving, consult the competent tourist offices and / or the refuges of reference.
Our GPX tracks are only indicative, that is, the route was carried out at best with the conditions of the trails and weather of that day. So always consider what to do on site.
Also remember to evaluate the route based on your physical abilities, training and the equipment you have.
You should leave someone the route you intend to do told.
Remember that the emergency number is 112.

EQUIPMENT
It is recommended to have the appropriate equipment for the route, weather conditions and season: windproof and / or rain jacket, map and / or GPS device, goggles, sunscreen, boots, first aid kit, specific clothing, gloves, backpack with food and drink.

RECOMMENDED MAPS
Tabacco 010 Sextener Dolomiten/Dolomiti di Sesto

INTERESTING LINKS
https://www.sillianerhuette.at/it

HOW TO ARRIVE
From the Town Hall of Sesto go up towards the church and along Via della Chiesa you arrive at the Mitterberg Fortress (3.2 km).

PARKING AREA
Near the Mitterberg Fort in Sesto
GPS coordinates: 46.699500, 12.367760

Parcheggio presso il Forte di Mitterberg di Sesto

Il primo tratto è asfaltato

In alto si vede la cima del Monte Elmo

Cippo di demarcazione del confine di Stato

Si va verso il Rifugio Sillianer

Sillianerhütte

Panorama verso le Dolomiti di Sesto

Panorama verso il versante austriaco

Bivio per Heimkehrerkreuz

Heimkehrerkreuz

Ultimo tratto per la cima di Monte Elmo

Crocifisso in vetta al Monte Elmo

Rifugio Gallo Cedrone

Bellissimo panorama verso le Dolomiti di Sesto

Rifugio Larice