Starting point for our ski tour to Mt. Giovo Grande (Grosser Jaufen) is the parking space near the Ponticello tavern in Braies Vecchia (Altprags) resp. Braies di Fuori at 1,500 m a.s.l., on the right in front of the bridge. From this place we walk towards the head of the valley on the forested trail for about 1 km. Reaching the riverbed in the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park, we traverse the river and zigzag the slope, scaling the draw.

Otherwise you can also take the summer path. We traverse the slope underneath the rocks and follow the summer path that takes us to the "Kaserle" and to the Cavallo Mountain Hut (Obere Rossalm, literally: Upper Horse Hut, 2,142 m a.s.l.). Walking past the mountain hut, Mt. Giovo Grande is visible. In the open country, past Mt. Giovo Piccolo (Kleiner Jaufen), we head for our final walking destination. From this moderate elevation, we enjoy a breathtaking view of Mt. Croda del Becco that falls away sharply and the other peaks of the Braies Dolomites.

Lake Braies, the Sesto Dolomites with the Three Peaks of Lavaredo... just amazing. Caution when you ski down, cornices! This ski tour is easy and worthwhile, alone for the great panorama. The ascent via the draw at the beginning requires secure conditions.

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Author: BS