Sunset over the Bletterbach Canyon from the summit of the Corno Bianco
Sunset over the Bletterbach Canyon from the summit of the Corno Bianco
DESCRIPTION
In Val d’Ega in Italy lies one of Europe’s largest canyons: the Bletterbach. Located in the region of South Tyrol, it was carved out over millions of years by flowing water, which created this 8-kilometer-long gorge that is several hundred meters deep. Also known as the Rio delle Foglie Gorge, it is a unique natural wonder in the Dolomites. The canyon walls offer scholars and visitors a vast geological lesson through the numerous rock layers that can be observed. An area rich in history, fossils, and unusual vistas. A loop trail allows you to walk along the canyon floor until you reach a tall waterfall, then climb back up the steep slope to view the gorge from above.
But to get a panoramic view of the Bletterbach and its surroundings, the best option is to climb to the summit of Mount Corno Bianco (2,316 m). Once you’ve passed the cross and carefully navigated the final prominent rocks—provided you don’t suffer from vertigo and are an experienced mountaineer—you can admire the start of the gorge, the canyon’s amphitheater all the way down to its floor, which lies 900 m below. And all around you, a 360° view opens up onto an endless array of Dolomite and Alpine peaks.
If you’re up for it, you can do even better by climbing Corno Bianco to enjoy the sunset and the last light of the day, just as I did. But I didn’t go alone; I was accompanied by Valentina Daprà, a kind and highly knowledgeable hiking guide who works with Fiemme Sunset. We waited for the sunset and the last rays of light, which gradually faded over the various peaks, before descending to Passo Oclini (1,989 m) by the light of our headlamps.
This shot is one of many taken from the summit overlooking the Bletterbach Canyon.
DATE AND LOCATION
July 9, 2026
Fiemme Dolomites - Italy
EQUIPMENT
Google Pixel 8 Pro
