Sass de Stria and Andraz Castle

DESCRIPTION
Val de Fodom: A Hike through History, Nature, and Adventure in the Dolomites.
We are in the beautiful Livinallongo Valley, known in Ladin as Val de Fodom, located within the Arabba area. This valley, one of the five Ladin valleys, offers a perfect starting point for exploring the Dolomites, connecting to Val di Fassa via the Pordoi Pass and to Val Badia via the Campolongo Pass.
The hike we propose is an adventure that combines a long walk, a visit to historical sites, and a via ferrata. This mix, which intrigued us from the beginning, turned out to be a great success, offering a rich and rewarding experience.
History and Culture
Our journey into history begins at Andraz Castle, a medieval fortress that today houses a museum. This museum tells the history of the castle, highlighting the transformations undergone by the fortress and the surrounding territory, influenced by the episcopal interests between the Fursil mines in Colle Santa Lucia in Val Fiorentina and Valparola in Alta Badia, where the smelting furnaces were located.
Continuing, the Sass de Stria emerges as a symbol of the fierce battles of the First World War on the Dolomite front. Here, numerous fortification remains tell the stories of past battles. To learn more, you can visit the Forte Tre Sassi Museum, which offers a detailed overview of the war events in the area.
The Via Ferrata
The via ferrata, dedicated to the memory of Lieutenant Fusetti, who fought in this area during the Great War, is classified as moderately difficult. With a height difference of 200 meters, it offers a climbable challenge and fantastic panoramic views along the entire route.
The Hike
The route of this hike is a total of 11 km long, with a height difference of 862 meters. The itinerary begins with a pleasant walk through shady woods, then continues through colorful flowering meadows and military walkways between trenches and fortifications. The ever-spectacular panorama from the summit of the Sass de Stria includes the Tofane, Lagazuoi, the Sella Group, the Marmolada, Civetta, Pelmo, Averau, and Col di Lana.
In conclusion, this hike in Val de Fodom is an exciting journey through nature, history, and adventure, ideal for those seeking a complete and unforgettable experience in the Dolomites.

ITINERARY
From Andraz Castle (1739 m) follow paths 34 and 23 to Lake Valparola (2140 m) and the nearby Forte Tre Sassi (2180 m). Here you turn right, although the signage in this section is unfortunately lacking, and reach the remains of the Edelweiss Stellung Position. Continue by keeping left and circling the Sass de Stria. At the start of the Via Ferrata Fusetti (2180 m) climb vertically. The via ferrata ends at an altitude of 2325 m. Here take the path to the right and climb to the summit of Sass de Stria (2477 m). Return to Forte Tre Sassi and take path 423 towards the Falzarego Pass. Before the pass, turn right, follow signpost 36, pass Pian di Falzarego (1930 m) - where the Hotel Al Sasso di Stria is located - and return to Andraz Castle.

EXCURSION DATE
July 15, 2024

STARTING POINT
Andraz Castle

REFRESHMENT POINT
Rifugio Passo Valparola and Hotel Al Sasso di Stria

AUTHOR’S SUGGESTIONS
Those who do not wish to do the via ferrata can reach the Sass de Stria by following the normal route.

SAFETY TIPS
The viability of the proposed itinerary, like all mountain morphology, is subject to environmental changes due to natural events and weather conditions. So, 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 evaluate 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: technical mountain clothing, boots with vibram sole or similar, via ferrata set, harness, helmet, via ferrata gloves, goggles, sunscreen, backpack with drinks.

RECOMMENDED MAPS
Tabacco 07 Alta Badia - Arabba - Marmolada

INTERESTING LINKS
https://www.castellodiandraz.it/it/

HOW TO ARRIVE
From Falzarego Pass take the SR48 towards Pordoi Pass. After 4.4 km turn right, direction Andraz Castle - 1 km.

PARKING AREA
Near Andraz Castle
GPS coordinates: 46.505764, 11.990061

Piccolo parcheggio nei pressi del Castello di Andraz

Il Castello di Andraz

Si sale per il sentiero 34

A destra il Sass de Stria

Il Passo di Valparola con l'omonimo lago

Siamo arrivati al Forte Tre Sassi

Stiamo andando verso l'attacco della ferrata

Attacco della Via Ferrata Fusetti

Tratto in verticale

Tratto in orrizzontale

Abbiamo trovato ancora della neve

Tratto dei camminamenti di guerra

In vetta al Sass de Stria

Si scende verso il Forte Tre Sassi per la via normale

Sul sentiero per far ritorno al Castello di Andraz