The Val Gardena is a large and beautiful valley encircled by the Sassolungo, Odle and Sella groups, which create a spectacular backdrop to the valley's rich meadows. Just north of Selva - one of the valley's principle towns - lies the beautiful and dramatic steep-sided Vallunga (literally, 'long valley'), which hosts the initially-controversial and now classic Via Ferrata Sandro Pertini. The views are some of the best in the Dolomites as you look into the adjacent Val de Chedul and neighbouring Cir Group, in turn home to Via Ferrata Piz da Cir V which is one of the best beginners routes in the area.