A mountain without barriers – Alan x el Mundo

“The path of the mountain, like that of life, is not traveled with the legs but with the heart.” Andres Nadal

By: @monytodoterreno

Climbing mountains is an activity for travelers looking to connect with nature. However, the mountains are full of natural obstacles, a seemingly insurmountable challenge for people with disabilities. Mount Lagazuoi, however, is a place accessible to all and everyone can admire the beauty of the Dolomites. Although it is located in the heart of the rugged Dolomites, its summit can also be reached by people using a wheelchair.

There are two ways to ascend the mountain, hiking and by cable car, in addition to the fact that various activities can be carried out, here I tell you:

The cable car

Without architectural barriers from the car park of the Falzarego pass to the panoramic terrace next to the mountain station, both in this starting section, as well as on the terrace, you will find spacious and accessible toilets (the toilet is locked, which you provided in the information module to access). the Lagazuoi cable car is fully accessible for people with disabilities. The ramps and the elevator guarantee complete accessibility to all areas. The cost of admission is 16 euros.

The shelter

From the terrace of the Lagazuoi cable car, a wheelchair accessible path leads to the beautiful terrace of the refuge. The Lagazuoi refuge, is the highest and largest in Cortina d’Ampezzo and is known worldwide as the most panoramic terrace in the Dolomites, it is equipped with all the services for people with disabilities, such as a toilet and a lift chair.

The top

Starting from the Lagazuoi refuge, everyone can reach the summit cross of the Piccolo Lagazuoi, at a height of 2778 m, by the old path of the First World War. Now that this dirt road has been restored, it is suitable for people in wheelchairs.

For the cable car ascent, it is recommended to assess the height of the upper station of the cable car, as well as the speed and the difference in altitude (from 2,100 m to 2,752 m in 3 minutes). In addition, it is recommended to use common sense during the visit, since a sign at the entrance announces that it is an unprotected path and its use is at your own risk.

Some recommendations

For those who are new to mountaineering, planning the ascent and descent is essential to enjoy reducing mishaps, for example: Check the weather (climate) of the day you intend to climb, anticipate that in some sections you might not have a telephone signal and internet, be accompanied to support yourself in case of any mishap, use sun protection (super important), in addition to caps or hats since you will be exposed to a greater intensity of sunlight due to the height. Bring water and some food rich in protein, as well as thermal clothing since the wind and cold increase during the ascent. The views all the way to the top are wonderful in any season, I would love to visit Lagazuoi in winter when the mountain is full of snow.

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