Pioneers and the exploration of the Dolomites
The history of mountaineering in the Dolomites began with courageous pioneers: wealthy urbanites sought adventure and found it at the side of experienced locals. These mountain hunters and farmers knew the peaks like no one else, becoming the very first guides of our region.
First ascent of the Sassolungo
A milestone of this era was the first ascent of the Sassolungo in 1869. Paul Grohmann from Vienna reached the summit of our iconic landmark alongside Franz Innerkofler from Sesto and Peter Salcher from Carinthia. In 1885, the Val Gardena section of the "German-Austrian Alpine Club" was founded, coordinating the activities of local guides. What began with just four guides grew into a proud group of thirty by the start of the First World War.
Since then, the mountain guide tradition has been a cornerstone of Val Gardena tourism and the ever-growing alpine culture.
Since then, local guides have been leading their guests safely through the Dolomites all year round.
The legacy of Batista Vinatzer
In the 1930s, an extraordinary personality shaped the climbing culture in the Dolomites: Batista Vinatzer. Known for his exceptional skill and humble nature, he achieved legendary first ascents, such as on the North Face of the Furchetta and the South Face of the Marmolada. His spirit lives on in the "Catores" climbing guild, which he co-founded in 1954 and which remains inextricably linked to the Val Gardena Mountain Rescue to this day.
Quality through tradition and training
With the tourism boom following the Second World War, mountain guiding evolved towards the highest levels of professionalism and rigorous standards. Today, an intensive three-year training program guarantees safety on the mountain. Members of the Catores have always been active in guide training, passing on their invaluable knowledge and experience to the next generation of guides.
After WWII, skiing and ski touring grew in popularity, turning the Dolomite peaks into attractive winter destinations.
Equipment has changed, but the passion remains the same. We enjoy every minute spent exploring our home mountains!
Founding of the Catores Alpine School
In 1980, the Catores Alpine School was finally established. Our name Catores – the Ladin word for the rock partridge – is a tribute to the renowned climbing guild. It was agreed that only members of the climbing guild may join the Alpine School, provided they have completed the international certification as a mountain guide.
Our philosophy today
Today, the alpine school consists of 19 mountain guides, all of whom are also active volunteers in the mountain rescue service. We are a community of climbing enthusiasts who often spend our free time exploring the mountains together. For us, it is a daily privilege to share our passion with our guests and to lead them safely through the fascinating world of the Dolomites.
To this day, the grey sweater remains the trademark of the Val Gardena climbing guild.
Mountain rescuers, alpinists and mountain guides united in South Tyrol's largest alpine school.
