13 - Ascent of the Fortress

<p>Fort Sommo alto is the smallest Austrian fort in the fortified belt of the Altipiani, an intermediate fort between Fort Cherle and Fort Dosso delle Somme. From its roof there is a wide panorama over the Orsara Valley below and towards the heights of Passo Coe, Plaut, Pioverna and Monte Maggio. About 700 m from the Fort is the Stella d&#039;Italia Refuge, open at weekends and every day in July and August.</p>

<p>The reasons for choosing this excursion may be historical interest, as the fort is an interesting testimony to the first great world conflict fought on this sector of the Austro-Italian front, scenic and panoramic interest, and naturalistic interest. The hike, which is also suitable for families with children over the age of 8, takes place on the former military road that connected the fort to the Passo del Sommo, which is largely shrouded in dense forest cover (spruce trees).</p>