Discovering New Horizons in the Popera Dolomites

The thrill of discovering a new place—a valley, a lake, or a mountain hut you've never visited before—is what drives us to explore. On a summer day, we embark on a journey into the heart of the Dolomite rock formations. Surrounded by a rocky amphitheater, our gaze gets lost among the numerous peaks and towers. The Popera Dolomites are a small group within the Sexten Dolomites, straddling the border between the provinces of Belluno, Veneto, and Bolzano, South Tyrol. This easternmost section of the Dolomites lies near the Monte Croce di Comelico Pass, descending into the Comelico Valley to reach the starting point of our route: Rifugio Lunelli.

The Comelico Valley, a breathtaking valley encircled by the Dolomites, offers an unspoiled, human-scaled environment. The unique panorama already captivates us as we set off from Rifugio Lunelli, with Monte Popera towering in front of us and the spires of the Campanili di Popera enhancing the Dolomitic scenery. Jagged peaks rise one after another, providing constant excitement. Leaving the forest behind, we quickly reach a rocky section marking the final stretch before entering Vallon Popera. Here stands Rifugio Berti al Popera, located at 1,950 meters, on the edge of a small plateau of green slopes and rocky steps, just before the Dolomitic scree fields. The Vallon Popera still whispers echoes of history, with World War I trenches visible at certain points along the route.

A light rain begins to fall from the clouds, but our Pelmo Hybrid Insulation jackets do their job, with their thermal insulation and foldable hood providing extra protection. In front of us, the imposing Croda Rossa di Sesto and Cima Undici complete the rugged mountain view. After navigating some rocky outcrops, we reach the edge of Vallon Popera, where a small lake mirrors the scattered rocks from the Dolomitic scree.

Peace and tranquility envelop the lake, creating a unique and revitalizing atmosphere amid the silence of rocks and scree. The green slopes, dotted with pale rocks, frame a landscape that is always new yet familiar. Closing our eyes and breathing deeply, we feel almost as if we merge with the wind that calmly blows through this rocky corner, guiding us as we follow the path back.