To check if open or reserve a table call the Rifugio Lake Ajal: +39 376 047 4338.
The hike starting point is along the SP 638 road to Passo Giau, about 300 m before Malga Peziè de Parù. The most convenient way to reach the access point is by taking the local bus service from Cortina centre up to Pocol and then walk along the road to Passo Giau.
After walking for 1.5 km you will find, on your left, a small car park with trail signs and a forest road closed by a gate.
Wear your snowshoes and start venturing through the woods along the forest road signposted CAI No. 434. Cross the bridge over the Costeana stream and keep left uphill on CAI trail No. 432.
Continue until you reach a clearing where “Cason del Macaron” and the namesake cross are found.
Follow the path as far as you encounter an iron gate. Turn right and continue slightly uphill; a few more meters and you can spot Lake d’Ajal.
Enjoy a well deserved rest at the Rifugio. Then, skirting the left shore of the lake you reach a shortcut in the forest that leads to the dirt road connecting Lake d’Ajal to Campo, CAI trail No.430.
Continue downhill as far as Jamberta intersection and turn left towards Mortija. Then, cross the bridge over the Rio Costeana gorge and enter the awe-inspiring environment of the Volpera caves, characterised by an agglomeration of boulders of any shape and size.
Leave the forest and in a few minutes you arrive at Mortija.
From here, Cortina centre is 10 minutes away.
Though we feel a tour guide is not necessary, hiring a mountain guide for your complete safety is always a good idea.
Rest stop: Rifugio Lago d’Ajal: +39 376 047 4338
