---
title: "Cinque Torri Loop & WWI Open Air Museum"
type: "1day-itinerary"
lang: "en"
distance_km: 8.5
elevation_plus_m: 350
elevation_minus_m: 350
difficulty: "Easy"
duration_days: 1
url: "https://dolomites-guide.com/hiking-dolomites/cinque-torri/"
description: "Plan your trip to Cinque Torri and the WWI Open Air Museum. Includes 2026 chairlift prices, hiking routes to Rifugio Nuvolau, and history tips."
---
# Cinque Torri Loop & WWI Open Air Museum
Explore one of the most famous rock formations in the Dolomites. This guide covers the WWI trenches, the loop around the five towers, and the climb to the historic Rifugio Nuvolau.
## Overview
The Cinque Torri (Five Towers) is one of the most recognizable geological formations in the Ampezzo Dolomites, consisting of five distinct limestone pillars rising from a field of fractured boulders. Reaching an elevation of 2,361 m (7,746 ft), the area serves as a world-class rock climbing destination and the site of the Italian Brigata Reggio command and observation post. This 6 km (3.7 mi) loop offers a dense concentration of history and geology, making it an essential day trip for those staying in Cortina d'Ampezzo or near the Falzegaro Pass.
## Stats
- Distance: 8.5 km
- Elevation gain: 350 m
- Elevation loss: 350 m
- Difficulty: Easy
- Duration: 1 day
## Need to know
## Map of Cinque Torri
Located in the heart of the Cortina Dolomites, Cinque Torri sits between the Passo Falzarego and the Passo Giau. The towers are part of the Averau and Nuvolau group. The terrain is characterized by massive fallen limestone blocks, trenches carved into the rock, and high alpine meadows.
## Which Trail Experience Should You Choose?
### Option #1: The WWI History & Towers Loop (The Classic)
- **The Goal:** To walk through the restored Italian frontline trenches and circle the base of the towering rock pillars.
- **The Route Data:**
- **Start/End:** Rifugio Scoiattoli (Top of the chairlift)
- **How to get to the start:** Take the Cinque Torri chairlift from Bai de Dones.
- **Trail Sequence:** Trail No. 425 (The Great War Museum circuit) -> Base of Torre Grande -> Trail No. 439 back to the chairlift.
- **Distance:** 3.5 km (2.2 mi)
- **Elevation:** +150 m (492 ft) ascent / -150 m (492 ft) descent.
- **The Reality:** This is more of an educational walk than a strenuous hike. You will spend more time reading the information plaques and exploring the reconstructed stone huts and command posts than actually trekking. It is perfect for families and history buffs.
### Option #2: The Triple Hut Traverse (Extended Loop)
- **The Goal:** To gain more elevation and see the towers from a higher vantage point while visiting the historic Rifugio Nuvolau.
- **The Route Data:**
- **Start/End:** Bai de Dones Parking
- **How to get to the start:** Drive to the Cinque Torri chairlift base at Bai de Dones.
- **Trail Sequence:** Trail No. 425 (uphill) -> Rifugio Scoiattoli -> Trail No. 439 to Rifugio Averau -> Ridge trail to Rifugio Nuvolau -> Descent via Trail No. 439/441.
- **Distance:** 8.5 km (5.3 mi)
- **Elevation:** +650 m (2,132 ft) ascent / -650 m (2,132 ft) descent.
- **The Reality:** This version adds the steep climb to Rifugio Nuvolau, which is the oldest refuge in the Dolomites, built in 1883. The route requires technical focus as it involves walking on tilted limestone slabs that are extremely slippery when wet. Beginners should be aware of the sheer vertical drop-offs surrounding the hut.
## How to Get To Cinque Torri
The primary access point is **Bai de Dones**, located along the SR48 road between Cortina d'Ampezzo and Passo Falzarego.
### The Cinque Torri Chairlift
The most common way to reach the plateau is the 4-seater open chairlift. It runs from approximately 09:00 to 17:00 (check seasonal variations). For the 2026 season, a round-trip ticket costs approximately 27 EUR ($30).
### Driving and Parking
There is a large parking lot at the Bai de Dones chairlift station. During August, this lot typically fills by 09:30. Alternatively, a narrow paved road leads to Rifugio Cinque Torri at the base of the rocks. This road is accessed from the **SR48** at the **Cianzopé** turn-off (between Cortina and Bai de Dones). **Warning:** This road is often closed to private traffic during peak summer hours to prevent gridlock.
## When Should You Visit & How to Check Conditions?
### The Best Season
**Mid-June to late September** is the standard window. For photographers, visiting during **Enrosadira** (sunset) provides the best light on the limestone as the towers face south/east.
### How to Check the Weather
Conditions at 2,300 m (7,545 ft) change within minutes. Check the Belvedere or Lagazuoi webcams before departing Cortina.
## What Essentials Must Be in Your Pack?
### Footwear
**The Recommendation:** While the main loop is gravel, the WWI trenches contain uneven rock and loose scree. Sturdy hiking shoes with a Vibram sole are mandatory, especially for the limestone slabs on the way to Nuvolau.
### Sun Protection
**The Invisible Threat:** The plateau is entirely exposed with zero shade. The white limestone reflects UV rays intensely. Bring SPF 50+ and a hat, even if the air feels cool.
### Clothing Strategy
Always carry a windproof shell. Even on a sunny day, the gap between the towers creates a wind-tunnel effect that can drop the perceptible temperature by 5°C (9°F) to 10°C (18°F) instantly.
### Hydration & Hut Logistics
**Cash is King:** Rifugio Scoiattoli and Rifugio Cinque Torri usually accept cards, but Rifugio Nuvolau often suffers from connectivity issues. Carry at least 30 EUR ($33) in cash for food and drink.
## The WWI Open Air Museum
Between 1915 and 1917, the Cinque Torri served as the primary command and observation post for the Italian Brigata Reggio. Because the towers provided a perfect vantage point over the Austrian positions on Lagazuoi and Valparola, the Italians built an extensive network of barracks, bunkers, and the famous Galleria del Goiginger nearby. Today, you can walk through the restored Grande Guerra museum for free. The site is located in close proximity to the Kaiserjäger trail, adding further historical depth to the area.
## Practical info
- Best season: June to September
- Accommodation: Rifugio Scoiattoli or Rifugio Cinque Torri for overnights
- Navigation: Easy (Well-marked with Trail 425 and 439)
- Gear: Hiking shoes, windbreaker, sun protection
- Start Point: Bai de Dones Chairlift (Bottom) or Rifugio Scoiattoli (Top)
- End Point: Loop