Get Ready for SpringFind Walks & Hikes
4
moderate to challenging
Activities
  • guided alpine walk
Accommodation
  • 6 nights in mountain refuges/gîte-hostels or mountain hotels
Meals
  • 6 Dinners
  • 7 Lunches
  • 6 Breakfasts

7 Days£1490GBP

View Inclusions

Overview

Trip Code: DGR

Trip 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

There are few alpine hikes that encompass a region so entirely as this stunning circuit through the dramatic spires of the Dolomites in northern Italy. From the lively ski town of Cortina d'Ampezzo flanked by classic dolomite peaks to the WW1 bunkers of the Tofane massif, the woods and alpine lakes of the Sextener Dolomites and the distinctive Tre Cime (3 peaks), every day on the hike offers a new scene. Accompanied by an experienced mountain guide and like minded group members, your gear is carried for you, allowing you to enjoy the sights and vistas. Nights are spent in comfortable 'rifugios' or 'Hüttes' in beautiful locations, where German or Italian cuisine could be on the menu, owing to the strong German heritage of the region.

Countries:

Italy

Starting Point:

Cortina

Finishing Point:

Cortina

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

Our trek begins in Cortina d'Ampezzo, the elegant alpine town at the heart of the Ampezzo basin. After a short bus transfer, we commence walking through the rugged Cadini di Misurina mountains, approaching the Tre Cime massif from the south. As the dramatic towers come into view, the landscape becomes increasingly stark and impressive. We finish the day beneath the iconic peaks with overnight accommodation at Rifugio Lavaredo. Distance: 9km/5.6mi, Elevation +750m/2460ft

Meals:  L,D

Leaving the Tre Cime area behind, we begin our journey away from the iconic towers. Following part of the Dolomites Alta Via 3, the route crosses the Rienztal valley before climbing towards the Strudelkopf pass. We descend past the striking Dürrensee lake, set beneath towering limestone walls. This region marks the former border between Austria and Italy, with clear traces of WWI history. Overnight at Dürrenstein Hütte. Distance: 9km/5.6m, Elevation +600m/1968ft, -890m/2920ft

Meals:  B,L,D

A magnificent day in the eastern Dolomites. From Dürrenstein we traverse the Walshe Platz and cross the Rosalmhütte pass, walking beneath the dramatic peaks of Rotwand and Croda Rossa. The route gradually descends through open alpine terrain and forested trails to reach Malga Ra Stua, beautifully located in a secluded valley. Distance: 12km/7.5m, Elevation +674m/2211ft, -825m/2707ft

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we explore the heart of the Fanes–Sennes–Braies Nature Park, hiking through this renowned alpine landscape. Wide mountain pastures and rugged terrain dominate the day, with Croda Rossa and Sorapis forming a spectacular backdrop. Descending through the valley, we arrive at our overnight stop at Rifugio Pederü. Distance: 9km/5.6mi, Elevation: +600m/1970ft, -890m/2920 ft

Meals:  B,L,D

A superb and scenic stage as we follow the route through Val Travenanzes. The trail climbs steadily through Val de Fanes, passing beneath the imposing Kreuzkofel massif. Waterfalls, rocky gorges and expansive alpine scenery accompany us throughout the day. Overnight at the historic Rifugio Valparola. Distance: 19km/11.8mi, Elevation: +800m/2625ft, -400m/1312 ft

Meals:  B,L,D

From Valparola we cross the Falzarego Pass, taking an alternative but equally spectacular route back towards the Cortina side of the Dolomites. Entering the Cinque Torri area, we walk among striking rock formations and well-preserved WWI sites. The day concludes at Rifugio Croda da Lago, overlooking its beautiful alpine lake. Distance: 11km/6.8mi, Elevation: +650m/2133ft, -1000m/3281 ft

Meals:  B,L,D

Leaving the lake behind, we descend gradually through forest trails and open slopes towards Cortina d'Ampezzo. As the valley opens, familiar views of the Ampezzo basin reappear. On arrival in Cortina, the trek concludes. Distance: 7km/4.3mi, Elevation: -850m/2789ft

Meals:  B,L

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Inclusions

What's included

  • 6 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners (does not include drinks) – continental breakfasts are served and usually consist of breads, jams, coffee, tea and juices. Lunch is picnic style. Dinner will consist of 2 or 3 courses which include regional specialties
  • 6 nights accommodation in mountain refuges on a dormitory share basis.
  • Luggage transfer, 1 piece maximum 12kg, must be a soft bag (no hard suitcases)
  • Additional luggage storage available, fees apply, must be pre booked.
  • Experienced mountain guide

  • Travel to and from the start and end point in Cortina
  • Drinks and snacks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Storage of luggage - fees apply
  • Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
  • Items of a personal nature

Accommodation

Mountain Gite

Accommodation is dormitory style in mountain refuges or gîte hostels. There can be up to 15 people in one room in some refuges but less on most nights (around 4-12). In the dorms beds are often bunks, always with separate mattresses. Blankets are provided. Bathrooms and toilets are shared.

Suitability

moderate to challenging

4

GRADE 4 - Daily guided hikes of around 4-6 hours, between 7 and 19 kms and maximum ascents of 1250 metres per day. Whilst 3 of the days would be considered moderate there are 4 days which involve harder stages and all days will involve steep uphills, descents, and many sections of the trail which require care with loose rock on the trail. There are short stages where chains and cables are there to support hikers. If you suffer from vertigo there are parts of the trail that are quite exposed. The accent is on keeping a steady pace with time to stop and take photos (subject to weather conditions). You will need a good level of fitness and a good hiking pace to participate fully in this adventure. It is considered suitable for hikers with some experience in alpine terrain. If you have no alpine experience, we recommend you participate in a series of hikes of 7-8 hours with lots of uphills and downhills - this will gauge your suitability for this hike. Early in the season (June) you may encounter snow on sections of the trail which may be quite deep and alter the grading of the trip to challenging. At any time during summer, weather conditions may be variable and you should be prepared for all conditions including snow, ice, strong hot sun and extreme winds. Pre trip training should involve a combination of cardio vascular sessions of 45 minutes, 3 to 4 times a week, coupled with endurance hikes of up to 8 hours carrying a daypack. Our staff are happy to provide further advice on pre trip training. Important note: good quality hiking boots with ankle support are a pre-requisite for your participation. Runners or shoes without ankle support are not suitable for the conditions encountered on this hike.

Departure dates


Notes

Note:
Hiking boots with good over ankle support are a mandatory requirement to participate in this hike
Note:
Please ensure you read the downloadable trip notes prior to booking.

Priceper person from

£1490GBP

Options & Supplements*
  • Additional luggage storage - per 15kg bagGBP£60
*Prices listed are per person

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand all | Collapse all

Gaiters are not needed

Trip reviews

Why travel with us

Personal Experience

We've been exploring the world on foot for over five decades, and our passion for walking runs deep. Having hiked nearly every corner of Europe, we take pride in sharing the joy, freedom and perspective that only travelling on foot can bring, all with the exceptional service and care our travellers know us for.

Great Value & Quality

Our trips offer excellent value for money, with everything you need for a seamless walking holiday. Each package includes detailed route notes, maps and navigation app, luggage transfers, and comfortable locally run accommodation. We take care of the planning, so you can simply enjoy the walk.

Self-Guided Specialists

We've been operating self-guided active holidays since 1973, taking care of every detail so you can relax and explore at your own pace. With many walking and hiking tours departing daily, you'll enjoy the freedom and flexibility to travel when it suits you.

Videos

Discover the Dolomites with Walkers' Britain & Europe