Highlights
“What I liked best? Ski touring to Rifugio Firenze and freeriding in Val di Mezdì: pure Dolomites magic.”
We arrive in Daunëi with the car packed and skins ready, too good of a day to waste. The trail climbs through snowy meadows and quiet huts, the cold air quickly replaced by the warmth of the ascent. At Rifugio Firenze, the Odle rise in front of us, sharp and white. A simple snack, hot chocolate, and we head back, legs tired but happy.
We wake up to heavy snowfall, perfect. With flat light and low clouds, it’s all about tree runs. Gore-Tex on, we take the Ciampinoi lift just steps from the residence and drop straight into the woods. Deep snow, soft turns, run after run. By afternoon, our legs give in. Back at the apartment, we call a guide for tomorrow’s big mission.
Blue skies and cold temps, ideal. We meet the guide early, check avalanche gear, and head up to Sass Pordoi. From there, Val di Mezdì opens wide: untouched powder, long lines, and that feeling of flying. One of those days you don’t forget. Back at the apartment, it’s full recovery mode, rest, stretch, or a bit of work before pizza and Netflix.
We’re still feeling yesterday, but there’s no way we skip the last day. A big breakfast at Rigais fuels us, sweet and savoury, just what we need. After check-out, we head straight to the lifts in search of fresh snow. The cold keeps conditions perfect. A quick shower at the residence, dry clothes, and we’re off, what a weekend!
Technical gear is essential: Gore-Tex shell, backpack, and avalanche kit (transceiver, shovel, probe). Don’t forget energy bars.
Skip plastic bottles, fill your reusable one with fresh tap water straight from the mountains.
Check the avalanche bulletin daily and always consider a guide for off-piste. Choose routes that match your level.
