Arabba is a small jewel nestled between the Campolongo Pass and the Pordoi Pass in the Dolomites in the Veneto region. At 1,602 metres asl, it has numerous trekking routes for novices and experienced explorers alike. Here are some of the most popular.
Trekking in the picturesque Bec de Roces
The starting point for this interesting route is , from which you take Trail 640 leading to Bec de Roces. For those who prefer a less strenuous way, the Campolongo chairlift comes to the rescue. After admiring the 360-degree panorama of the Sella, Marmolada, Porta Vescovo and Col di Lana peaks and scenery continue on Trail 640 in the direction of Lake Boè. After a relaxing break at the lake, you can return to Passo Campolongo via the dirt road N° 638, ending the excursion in about four hours.
A fun bear hunt for kids and family
There is also a route for sporting families. This itinerary transforms the outing for little ones and their parents into a fun hunt for the Bec Bear. Along the fun-themed trail called Bearlock Holmes, children can have fun finding all the shapes that represent the daily activities of Bec Bear and his family. The track is just over 1.1 kilometres long, and it takes roughly an hour to collect all the bears.
WWI trenches on a challenging walk
The Arabba area was the scene of fierce fighting during the First World War and the panoramic Ferrata delle Trincee trail gives you the opportunity to discover many old trails and trenches. The route does have quite a challenging first part, but this is amply compensated for by a long but much simpler second part.
Cliff climbing and an ancient castle
Moving on to the cliffs, anyone who wants to learn (or improve) their techniques can access the Sass de Bèita cliff in the hamlet of Castello, between the Falzarego Pass and Arabba. You don't need to be an expert climber as the crag adapts to the various levels of ability and the reward is the climb to Andraz Castle, which is Arabba’s symbolic monument.
ph credits: Roberto De Pellegrin