Dolomites Guided Hike

4.6Based on

Carbon neutral

7 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

14 peopleMaximum group size

18 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Challenging

Demands good physical fitness and stamina for more intense or extended activities.

Starts

Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy

Ends

Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy

Highlights

Trek through stunning alpine scenery high in the Dolomites

Enjoying the variety of scenery from valley lakes and rivers to the stark beauty of the dolomite spires

Experience the WWI history of the mountains

Sharing your hiking day with a group of like minded travellers

Itinerary

Imagine traversing the soaring peaks and serene alpine meadows of northern Italy on the "Dolomites Guided Hike." This 7-day walking tour begins and ends in Cortina d'Ampezzo and brings together a small group of adventurous travelers, guided by a seasoned mountain expert. The route weaves through Lago di Braies, Rifugio Lavarredo, Refuge Guissani, and several other breathtaking destinations, offering daily vistas of dramatic spires, WWI bunkers, tranquil lakes, and the iconic Tre Cime peaks.

Your luggage is transported for you, allowing you to fully immerse in the region's spectacular scenery and unique blend of German and Italian alpine culture. Evenings are spent in atmospheric "rifugios" or mountain huts, where hearty local cuisine and camaraderie make for memorable nights under the stars.

This moderate-level hiking tour is designed for experienced travelers and active seniors seeking a blend of challenge and comfort. The unique selling point is the rare opportunity to explore a comprehensive circuit of the Dolomites—an unrivaled trekking experience that balances natural beauty, culture, and support every step of the way.

day 1 - Meet at Cortina d’Ampezzo, transfer to the Bai de Dones area to commence hike (4hrs)

Meet the guide and group at 9:30 am. From the delightful alpine ski town of Cortina, there is a group transfer before we hike towards the Tofano peaks, the location of the Dino Buzzati film “Désert des Tartares” (The Desert of the Tartars). Here the trail winds high along a wartime mule track, through rock needles and past bunkers and abandoned refuges. The views down to the Cortina basin and surrounding peaks are fabulous and a great reward for your efforts. After a tough first days ascent we'll relax in our mountain hut, the Rifugio Valparola, and absorb the fine Italian alpine hospitality.

Distance: 11km/6.8mi, ascend +845m/2772ft, descent -400m/1312ft

Meals:Lunch and Dinner

day 2 - Descend towards Lago Lagazoui and hike to Pederu Hütte (6hrs)

The hike begins from Rifugio Valparola and descends gently to Rifugio Scotoni, a welcoming stop nestled below towering cliffs. From here, the trail climbs steadily towards a narrow saddle — the Forcella di Lago — where sweeping views of the Dolomites open up. Crossing the pass, you descend to the serene Lago Lagazuoi, its clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks. Continuing through a landscape of waterfalls, dwarf mountain pines and cascading streams crossed by wooden bridges, you may spot evidence of marmots along the way. The scenery gradually changes as you traverse alpine meadows and descend into the valley, reaching your overnight accommodation at Rifugio Pederü.

Distance: 19km/11.8mi, ascend +880m/2887ft, descend -1460m/4790ft