Via Ferrata Gran Cir: The Perfect Beginner Via Ferrata in the Dolomites
If you’ve ever wanted to try a via ferrata in the Dolomites but felt a little intimidated, Via Ferrata Gran Cir (Großes Cirspitze) is the perfect one to start with. It’s short, scenic, and beginner-friendly — yet offers jaw-dropping 360° views that make you feel on top of the world.
Nestled right on the Gardena Pass (Passo Gardena / Grödnerjoch), this route beautifully connects Val Badia and Val Gardena, two of the most iconic valleys in the Dolomites. Whether you’re an experienced hiker wanting to try something new or a first-timer looking for a safe adventure — this is the via ferrata to do!
What makes Gran Cir so popular — besides being beginner-friendly — is how quickly you can reach the summit and how spectacular the views are once you’re there. From the top, the panorama stretches endlessly in every direction. To the west, you can spot Ortler, South Tyrol’s highest peak. Looking south, the mighty Sella Group dominates the horizon, while turning east reveals Dolomite icons such as Tofana, Antelao, and Civetta shimmering in the distance.
Thanks to this unbeatable location, Gran Cir is one of the best spots in the Dolomites to catch a sunrise or sunset — the light paints the surrounding peaks in soft pink and gold. And if you still have energy after your climb, it’s easy to continue to Piccola Cir (Small Cir) right next door, where a slightly steeper via ferrata offers another fun challenge and even more incredible views.
Overview & Stats
Location: Gardena Pass (Passo Gardena)
Starting Point: Rifugio Jimmi / Hotel Cir
Parking: Parking Mëisules (Next to Rifugio Frara Berhaus) - €2/hr (7am–7pm, max €8) or €0.50/hr after 7pm
Summit Altitude: 2,592 m
Elevation: 450m
Ascent Time: ~ 2 to 2.5 hours round trip
Difficulty: Easy (Grade A/B)
Best Season: June to October
Exposure: Moderate – short sections with cables and metal rungs
Required Fitness: Basic hiking fitness
Trail numbers: 2, 2B
Map & Navigation: You can find the full trail route on AllTrails
The route starts right from Gardena Pass, which means there’s no long approach — perfect if you want a taste of via ferrata without committing to a full-day climb. It’s one of those adventures you can fit in just a couple of hours, making it ideal for a relaxed morning or a spontaneous afternoon plan.
Route Description
The route begins at Passo Gardena (2,121 m), the scenic pass linking Val Gardena and Val Badia. From the parking area near Rifugio Frara Berghaus, follow trail no. 2, which leads gently uphill. After around 15 minutes, you’ll reach a scree gully — follow the path up its left side until you reach the first cables.
The Via Ferrata Gran Cir is graded 1A, one of the easiest in the Dolomites, and is ideal for beginners or families. Only the first and last sections have fixed cables — the middle section is a steep but straightforward hike over rocky terrain. Even though it’s simple, wearing a harness and helmet is highly recommended.
The trail zigzags steadily upward, with the Sella Group in full view the entire way. The climb from the gully to the summit takes about 45 minutes, or less if you’re quick. At the top, the summit cross welcomes you at 2,592 meters, and you’ll likely meet other hikers soaking in the stunning light — especially at sunrise or sunset.
Descend via the same route; the return to Passo Gardena takes roughly an hour.
How to Get There
From Val Gardena
If you’re arriving via the A22 Autostrada del Brennero, follow the SS242 through Val Gardena to Plan de Gralba. From there, turn left onto SS243 toward Passo Gardena. At the top of the pass, you’ll find the parking area just after the Frara Guesthouse (subject to charge).
In summer, the Dolomite passes are well connected by public transport. Bus line 471 runs every 30 minutes from Ortisei, Selva, and Corvara to Passo Gardena. For updated schedules, visit Südtirol Mobil website — it’s reliable and updated regularly, especially during the summer season.
If you prefer a faster route, you can also take the Dantercepies cable car from Selva up to Passo Gardena. The top station sits slightly above the pass, saving you around 20 minutes of walking. From there, simply follow trail 12A to the starting point.
From Val Badia
From Corvara, follow the SS244 and turn right at the junction toward Passo Gardena (SS243). You’ll arrive at the same parking area next to Rifugio Frara Berghaus.
You can also ride the Frara cable car from Colfosco up to Passo Gardena — when you step out, you’ll be standing right in front of Gran Cir. Follow trail 12A to reach the via ferrata starting point.
Parking
If you’re driving, set your GPS to “Parking Mëisules, Rifugio Frara Berghaus”. The parking is located directly at Passo Gardena, making it super convenient for the start of the hike.
Parking fee: €2/hour (7am–7pm, max €8) or €0.50/hour after 7pm.
The drive itself is spectacular, winding through the heart of the Dolomites with incredible mountain views around every bend.
Why You’ll Love It
From the top of Gran Cir, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best panoramic views in the Dolomites — think Sella Group, Sassolungo, and Puez-Odle peaks all around you. The entire ridge gives you that “on top of the world” feeling, yet it’s accessible to anyone with a good head for heights and some hiking experience.
We decided to hike Gran Cir at sunset, and it was absolutely magical — golden light spilling over the peaks, the valleys glowing below, and almost no one else around. It would also make a stunning sunrise hike, especially if you want to catch the first light over Val Badia — just remember to bring a headtorch for the ascent or descent, as the rocky path can get dark quickly.
The Gran Cir summit views are nothing short of spectacular. Standing on top, you’re surrounded by a full panorama of Dolomite giants — far to the east rise Mount Antelao and Mount Pelmo, both over 3,000 meters and gleaming in the distance. To the south stretches the mighty Sella Group, crowned by Piz Boè, while to the west stands the iconic Sassolungo, one of the most photogenic peaks in the Dolomites. If you look closely, you’ll even spot Seceda and the jagged Odle Peaks in the distance — an unmistakable view that captures the true beauty of the Dolomites.
Weather & Conditions
The best time to climb Gran Cir is from June to October, when the snow has melted and the weather is stable.
Morning or evening climbs are best to avoid crowds and enjoy soft light.
Always check mountain forecast for up-to-date weather forecasts before heading out.
Avoid going if there’s a chance of rain or lightning — metal cables and wet rock don’t mix well!
In early summer, snow patches can linger near the summit, so make sure you’re prepared with warm layers.
Gear Checklist
Even though Gran Cir is an easy via ferrata, safety gear is essential:
Via ferrata set (harness + lanyard with energy absorber)
Gloves (for cables and rock)
Hiking or approach shoes with good grip
Warm & windproof layers — it can get chilly at the pass
Water and snacks
Sunscreen & sunglasses
Headtorch if starting early or descending late
You can rent via ferrata gear in Selva di Val Gardena or Corvara if you don’t have your own. Most outdoor shops offer half-day or full-day rentals.
Where to Rent Via Ferrata Gear
If you don’t have your own via ferrata equipment, you’ll find several convenient rental shops near Gardena Pass:
Sport Laurin (Selva di Val Gardena) – This is where we rented our gear! Friendly staff and well-maintained equipment. €18 per day.
Intersport Val Gardena (Selva di Val Gardena) – centrally located with high-quality via ferrata and hiking gear. €25 per day.
Sport Kostner (Corvara) – another solid option if you’re staying on the Val Badia side. €18 per day.
Most shops rent full via ferrata sets (helmet, harness, and lanyard) for half-day or full-day use. Make sure to check opening hours.
Where to Stay Nearby
You’ll find plenty of cozy mountain hotels and rifugios nearby:
Rifugio Jimmi – right at the starting point, perfect for early starts
Selva di Val Gardena – 15 min drive, with lots of restaurants and gear shops
Corvara in Badia – 20 min drive, another great base with stunning alpine views
If you’re planning to explore more via ferratas or hikes around the Sella group, staying in Selva makes a great central base.
Other Hikes & Via Ferratas Nearby
If you’re spending a few days around Passo Gardena, there are plenty of amazing hikes and climbs nearby worth adding to your itinerary:
Sassolungo Circuit – a spectacular full-day hike looping around the Sassolungo and Sassopiatto peaks, offering incredible changing scenery.
Piz Boè (Sella Group) – a slightly more demanding hike to the highest point of the Sella Group (3,152 m) with optional via ferrata sections and unforgettable views.
Via Ferrata Piccolo Cir – located right next to Gran Cir, this route is steeper and more exposed — perfect for those who enjoyed Gran Cir and want the next step up!
Seceda & the Odle Peaks – take the cable car from Ortisei and explore the famous ridgeline with its postcard-perfect jagged peaks.
Final Thoughts
Via Ferrata Gran Cir is one of those experiences that stays with you long after you’ve come down from the mountain. It’s beginner-friendly, stunningly beautiful, and gives you a taste of adventure without feeling extreme.
If you’re planning your Dolomites trip and want to try your first via ferrata — make it Gran Cir. You’ll fall in love with the views, the thrill, and that incredible feeling of standing high above two of the most iconic valleys in the Alps: Val Gardena and Val Badia.
SEO description
Discover Via Ferrata Gran Cir, an easy and scenic beginner via ferrata in the Dolomites connecting Val Gardena and Val Badia. Learn how to get there, gear rental options, hiking route, and why it’s a must for sunrise or sunset climbs at Passo Gardena.
