
Scoiattoli Refuge
Italy, europe
1 km
2,257 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in Northern Italy, smack-dab in the Dolomites, headed for Rifugio Scoiattoli – a mountain hut perched way up at 7,404 feet! The drive up is a real adventure, a mere 1 kilometer but totally worth it.
Forget paved roads, you're on a narrow, unpaved ski-station service road, so a 4x4 is a must! The views over the 5 Torri area? Absolutely breathtaking! You're not just driving; you're cruising through history. This whole area was a WWI battleground, and you can practically feel it. Plus, you're right next to the Great War Open Museum! Trust me, the incredible views from up there? You won't regret the trek!
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 1 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,257 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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