A One-of-a-Kind Dolomites Hiking Tour

Dolomites Adventure

  • 9 Days
  • Avg Group Size: 12
  • Activity Level 3
    • Activity Level 3

      Those who take on our Level 3 tours are looking for more challenging hikes that will raise their heart rate.

    Read more about the Active Range

  • Trip Start: Venice
  • Trip End: Venice
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You're invited on our Dolomites Adventure hiking tour that'll bring you to a quieter time as you explore Italy's Dolomite Mountains, filled with charming villages and breathtaking landscapes.

Indulge your senses as you hike amongst the Dolomite Alps, let fresh air fill your lungs, wildflowers tease your nose, and local wine and cheese tempt your tastebuds on our 9-day Dolomites Adventure. Starting and finishing in Venice, you'll enjoy nine incredible days of exploring the hidden secrets of the Dolomites. Wander through charming villages like Cortina and Dobbiaco, circumnavigate the soaring peaks of Tre Cime de Lavaredo, discover why Alta Badia is known as the 'heart and soul' of the Dolomites and challenge yourself with a Via Ferrata atop Cinque Torri. And yet, the Dolomites with Active Adventures is so much more than outstanding landscapes and adventure. You'll experience the incredible hospitality of the local Ladin people, stay in very comfortable mountain hotels and have the chance to taste the amazing variety of local food and wine.

Download Our Handy Trip Itinerary

Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip.

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Dolomites Adventure ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: Venice Trip End: Venice

Download our Handy Trip itinerary

Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip

  • Day 1Arrive Venice, hike near Cortina d'Ampezzo

  • Day 2Hiking circumnavigation of Tre Cime de Lavaredo

  • Day 3Bike from Cortina to Dobbiaco or free day in Cortina

  • Day 4Hike Cortina to Rifugio Fodara Vedla

  • Day 5Out and back hike from Rifugio Fodora Vedla

  • Day 6Hike to Santa Croce Sanctuary

  • Day 7Hike a Loop from Capanna Alpina into the Fanes Natural Park

  • Day 8Via Ferrata Mario Fusetti and hike WWI Tunnels of Lagazuoi

  • Day 9Return to Venice, depart

  • Day 1

    Arrive Venice, hike near Cortina d'Ampezzo

    #83839

    Our trip begins in Venice, one of the most iconic cities in the world. We’ll meet you at Venice Marco Polo Airport and make our way towards Cortina d’Ampezzo in the heart of the Dolomites. As we head north, the foothills rapidly steepen and become more colorful around every corner. Amidst rolling green meadows and high rock monoliths, Cortina village is one of the most picture-perfect mountain towns in the world. There’s almost not a blade of grass, roof tile, or street cobblestone out of place.

    Once we arrive in town we’ll walk to a local restaurant for lunch, where you’ll have the opportunity to try the local beetroot ravioli! After lunch, we‘ll take an introductory hike to the Cascade di Fanes and this afternoon you’ll have a chance to briefly explore the cobbled streets of the iconic mountain town of Cortina before dinner.
    Accommodation: Hotel Franceschi, Cortina
    Meals: Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 3.1 miles (5 kilometers), 2-2.25 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 492 feet (150 meters) ascent, 492 feet (150 meters) descent

     

  • Day 2

    Hiking circumnavigation of Tre Cime de Lavaredo

    #83840

    Today we’ll circumnavigate the most iconic landmark in the Dolomites – the soaring peaks of Tre Cime de Lavaredo. First climbed in the 1930s, these three massive rock monoliths, that seemingly rise out of nowhere in isolation from other peaks, loom large high over the valleys below. It’s difficult to look away! If there’s one thing to peel your attention away from the scenery, it’s a family-made lunch in an Italian refugio, followed by the best espresso you’ll ever receive.

    Later, as we hike further around the peaks, their shape and form evolve with every step – the views keep getting better! Keep an eye out for bunkers and old barracks on the trail today, as this area is dotted with reminders of the First World War.

    After our hike, we’ll drive a short distance back to Cortina d’ Ampezzo.
    Accommodation: Hotel Franceschi, Cortina
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: Longer option: 8 miles (12.9 kilometers), 6 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,000 feet (610 meters) ascent, 2,000 feet (610 meters) descent

    Hiking: Shorter option (Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop): 5.4 miles (8.6 kilometers), 4 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,863 feet (568 meters) ascent, 1,863 feet (568 meters) descent

     

  • Day 3

    Bike from Cortina to Dobbiaco or free day in Cortina

    #83841

    This morning we’ll ride along the converted Val di Landro railway line – once the only communication link between the towns of Calalzo, Cortina and Dobbiaco on the Austrian border. Non-operational since the 1960s, this route cuts through some of the most iconic and dramatic scenery in the Dolomites. We’ll ride over iron bridges that skirt deep canyons, through tunnels and across gentle passes that afford dramatically beautiful views of some of the Dolomites’ steepest peaks, including Tre Cime de Lavaredo.

    If you prefer, there’s plenty of free time in Cortina to relax and tonight you’ll have the evening free to choose from one of the many restaurants for dinner.
    Accommodation: Hotel Franceschi, Cortina
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    Biking (Optional): 34 miles (54 kilometers), 5-7 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 950 feet (289 meters) ascent, 950 feet (289 meters) descent

     

  • Day 4

    Hike Cortina to Rifugio Fodara Vedla

    #83842

    Today we’ll begin our hike into the heart of the Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park. After a short drive deeper into the mountains, we’ll set off on the trail, following the turquoise Boite River higher up the Valon Scuro with the massive Piccola Croda Rossa looming large above us.

    We’ll have lunch at Rifugio Sennes at 6,975 feet (2,126 meters) and afterward, it’s an easy 1-hour hike down to our accommodation for the night at Fodara Vedla, a rifugio surrounded by massive peaks to the south, east and north, and the vast Vallone di Rudo to the west.

    For those who are keen on more hiking today, we’ll hike above Fodara Vedla to Col de Lasta where we’ll be greeted by 360-degree views of the highest peaks in the Dolomites. Every way you look you’ll be blown away by orange and red spires, including the imposing Croda Rossa (10,320 feet), saturated in the late afternoon light. It’s a sight to behold!
    Accommodation: Rifugio Fodara Vedla
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 8.5 miles (13.7 kilometers), 4-6 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 3,018 feet (920 meters) ascent, 984 feet (300 meters) descent
    Optional Afternoon Hike: 3.2 miles (5.3 kilometers), 1.5 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,608 feet (490 meters) ascent, 426 feet (130 meters) descent

  • Day 5

    Out and back hike from Rifugio Fodora Vedla

    #83843

    This morning you'll set off along the legendary Hunter's trail, reaching the foot of the imposing Mutejela rock pyramid. The hike is a geologists dream, through dramatic karst landscapes marked by pinnacles and rock walls. The trail opens up to flowery meados and beautiful views as you stop for refreshments in Rigugio Sennes. From here you'll get some panoramic views of some of the most beautiful peaks of the Dolomites. 

    Later you'll return to Rifugio Fodara Vedla.         

    Accommodation: Rifugio Fodara Vedla
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 8.4 miles (13.6 kilometers)
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 3,005 feet (916 meters) ascent, 3,005 feet (916 meters) descent

  • Day 6

    Hike to Santa Croce Sanctuary

    #83844

    Departing your rifugio this morning, you'll hike downhill towards Rifugio Pederù at an altitude of 5,079 feet (1,547 meters). From here you will have a private transfer to Castalta in Badia  which is about a 50 minutes drive.  

    The journey continues  through a larch tree forest, to Malga Pasciantadù. The path is flanked by the Via Crucis stations, and crosses pastures, mugo pines, and woods, reaching the church and sanctuary of Ospizio Santa Croce at 6,710 feet (2,045 meters). The sober white church was consecrated in 1484 and holds an image of Christ bearing the cross, hence the name of the mountain - Sasso della Croce, "stone of the cross." The original chapel on the site was built in the 11th century, when a wealthy count of the Val Pusteria withdrew here in meditation, in repentance for his harsh treatment of his subjects. He then donated all of his earthly possessions to the nearby abbey, the badia, which gave its name to Val Badia. The "pilgrim's" hospice (ospizio) building, built in 1718, was originally the sacristan's lodgings.

    There is a charming rifugio here, where you can enjoy a traditional Dolomites lunch. Don't miss the famous Kaiserschmarren, a crepe-like pancake with powdered sugar and jam!
    In the afternoon we'll hike on path Number 15 to reach the village of San Cassiano and check-in into your hotel. Our home for the next couple of evenings is the village of San Cassiano at the head of the valley.
    Accommodation: Hotel Conturines in Alta Badia or similar
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 7.38 miles (12.3 kilometers), 4-5 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,253 feet (380 meters) ascent, 3,180 feet (964 meters) descent

  • Day 7

    Hike a Loop from Capanna Alpina into the Fanes Natural Park

    #83845

    In the morning, we'll take a private transfer to Capanna Alpina at an elevation of 5,663 feet (1,726 meters), a restaurant built at the edge of the Natural Park in an incredible setting. From here, you'll begin climbing on trail Number 11 for about 1 hour. At the top of the climb, you are at Col de Locia at an elevation of 6,788 feet (2,069 meters), from where you can admire the beauty of Alta Badia right in front of your eyes. 

    Col de Locia marks the entrance of a fairy tale valley amidst the mountains with green pastures all around. At a crossroads, the route continues on your right through the beautiful high meadow and karst formations, climbing to the Forcella del Lago, a narrow and dramatic gap in the mountain with a trail descent through steep talus on the south side. At the base of the slope is the lake called Lago Lagacio' whose green waters are framed by pines with a backdrop of the sheer walls of the Cima del Lago and the Cima Scotoni. From the lake, walk downwards, and reach a beautifully placed Rifugio Scotoni at an elevation of  6,512 feet (1,985 meters), and continue downhill to Capanna Alpina. 
    Accommodation: Hotel Conturines in Alta Badia or similar
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 6 miles (10 kilometers), 4-5 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 4,268 feet (1,301 meters) ascent, 4,287 feet (1,307 meters) descent

     

  • Day 8

    Via Ferrata Mario Fusetti and hike WWI Tunnels of Lagazuoi

    #83846

    This morning we’ll drive to Passo Valparola where a new Via Ferrata has been inaugurated in October on the Sasso de Stria peak. From the ‘Forte Tre Sassi’ WW1 museum we'll hike along the Goiginger gallery and the trail continues across the saddle, home to Austro-Hungarian post, reaching the start of the Via Ferrata in around 25 minutes.

    This relatively short Via Ferrata is great to test your climbing skills and we'll begin the climb on the equipped trail, reaching the trenches located 110m/360’ above, in approximately 40 minutes. The Via Ferrata ends beneath the summit, which can be reached following the already existing trail. Lieutenant ‘Mario Fusetti’ climbed the Sasso di Stria peak to occupy the summit in 1915 during WW1. To commemorate the sacrifice of these soldiers, in the year of the centenary of the end of the First World War, the Army's Alpine Troop secured the original trail with sturdy bolts and cables, to reach the summit from the South West side, opening up to wonderful 360 degree views over the neighboring mountain ranges. For others who chose not to do the Via Ferrata, you'll walk along a track to check out WWI trenches, finishing at Passo Falzarego.

    From there you'll ascend in the Lagazoui cable car for a a short walk up at the top where we'll all re-group and enjoy lunch. After lunch, from here, we’ll hike up to the Galleria del Lagazuoi, a fascinating open air and underground WWI museum carved into the mountains. This is where the Italian and Austro–Hungarian armies dug shelters out of the mountains, transforming them into an impenetrable 20th Century fortress of tunnels, trenches and machine gun posts. A number of different subterranean routes take us on a behind the scenes tour of some of the dramatic high altitude battles that were fought in World War 1.
    Accommodation: Hotel Conturines or similar, San Cassiano
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 2.5 miles (4 kilometers), 1-2 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 459 feet (140 meters) ascent, 2,624 feet (800 meters) descent

    Optional Via Ferrata Experience: 2 hours. This option must be selected at the time of booking.

    Notes: Please note the trails on the Via Ferrata Experience are narrow and involve considerable vertical gain along sections of protected climbing paths with iron cables and iron steps and ladders. While the trails are perfectly manageable for participants in good shape, the experience is not suitable for anyone with fear of heights.

  • Day 9

    Return to Venice, depart

    #83847

    Today is the last day of your trip in the Dolomites. You’ll go home knowing you’ve hiked, biked, explored by via ferrata, and immersed yourself in one of the most spectacularly beautiful regions on the planet. We’ll head back to Venice this morning in time for flights leaving in the afternoon.
    Accommodation: Not applicable
    Meals: Breakfast

Dolomites Adventure Departure Dates

Active Adventures

This trip is operated by our sister brand Active Adventures

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Included

  • 8 nights’ accommodation
  • 8 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 7 dinners
  • Our own highly experienced guides and leader, with you from start to finish
  • Industry leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
  • Your own ‘Account’, an online space with everything required for your adventure
  • Our knowledgeable Customer Service Team to answer your queries - just a phone call, email or chat away
  • Customer Service pre-trip phone calls to ensure you’re 'trip ready'
  • Unlimited snacks to keep you fuelled
  • Special ‘Wow’ moments you'll never forget
  • All activities outlined in the itinerary
  • All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
  • Transportation in our air-conditioned vans - safe, clean, modern and comfortable!

What Our Guests Say

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*Price Promise is available for bookings made on or after October 16, 2024. If the advertised price of your booked future trip decreases within 60 days of your original booking date, you can contact us to request the lower price be applied to your existing booking. You must contact us no later than 60 days from your original booking date and provide details of the available price/discount you wish to avail. The price of your trip can be changed only once and only if you contact us during the time at which the lower price is advertised/available. Price Promise cannot be combined with any other offers, promotions, or discounts. The company reserves the right to amend these terms and conditions at any time in its sole discretion. Other restrictions may apply.  

 

Useful Info

Is tipping expected in Europe?

Tipping is not expected in Europe however you might want to tip a little extra if you feel someone gave really fantastic service, but it's not really necessary. Many of our people also choose to tip their Active Adventures Europe trip leaders and local guides and we recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per Trip Leader/guide. You are welcome to tip an equivalent amount in the local currency. There are plenty of ATM’s and banks in the larger towns of Europe.

Where does the trip start?

On the first morning of the trip we will pick you up from the Venice Marco Polo (VCE) airport at the Ground Floor 'Relay' newsstand and shop at 11am.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a drop-off at the Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) in time for afternoon flights. If you’re staying on in Venice you can take a transfer from Venice Airport to Central Venice via regular bus services.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in Venice by 9am. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the city prior to your trip start.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Venice after 2pm for both domestic and international. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

How do rooming arrangements work?

Trip prices are based on shared arrangements (typically two guests per room), unless otherwise stated. For solo travelers, we’ll pair you with another person of the same gender to share rooms and if there’s no one suitable to share with, there’s no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own rooms, you can opt to pay the single supplement. Solo travelers who book within 120 days of departure, where there are no other solo travelers willing to share, will be required to pay the single supplement.

For Family Vacation bookings, families consisting of four guests traveling with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

How fit do I need to be for this trip?

You’ll need a solid level of fitness for this trip. We’ll get you into the back country to experience the Dolomites scenery up close, typically, hikes range between two and seven hours to complete, with shorter options available on most days. So get out there with a daypack on and train so you’ll be ready to join us! While you don’t have to be extremely fit, you should be in the habit of doing regular aerobic exercise, ideally involving some up hills and down hills and perhaps even carrying a pack! With a little preparation before your trip begins, you’ll enjoy the active and outdoor nature of your trip all the more.

Please head to our Fitness Guide for great tips on how to prepare along with a workout plan!

What accommodations do we stay at on this trip?

We’ve selected the accommodation on the is trip for the unique character and adventuresome feel – this trip is not designed as a tour of the fanciest hotels in Italy. We prefer to stay in quaint, comfortable B&B’s and mountain lodges during the trek in Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park, known locally as rifugio’s.

If you've selected a single supplement for your trip, the multi-day hike in Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park is not included as no single rooms are available in the rifugio's, and the single supplement price takes this into account.

While there maybe opportunities to do laundry on the trip, if need be, they won’t be as convenient. Laundry can be quite expensive (usually around €2.50 per item and takes 24 hours) so if you need to do this the best time will be after your Natural Park trek once we arrive into Cortina d’Ampezzo.

How much luggage can I bring on this trip?

You are allowed one piece of luggage on your trip, plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage should not exceed 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and can be anything from a duffle bag to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase. You'll also want a good quality backpack sized 25-30 liters (2000 cubic inches) to use throughout the days.

You'll also need an overnight trekking pack for the multi-day hike in the Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park, though your daypack could double as your overnight trekking pack if you bring along a 30-40 litres size (2000- 3000 cubic inches).

Tell me about the optional activities on this trip?

Today we have the choice of either going out on a via ferrata, or hiking the ridgeline. Both options have stunning views, it simply depends on what you prefer. These options are no additional cost though must be prearranged at least one month in advance. You have the choice of the following two options:

Via Ferrata Fusetti
One of the standout activities of this trip! We’ll don helmets, harnesses and safety gear, and with our expert guides embark on a fixed cable (via ferrata) Ferrata Fusetti on Sass de Stria. Once at the summit you’ll see the entire Dolomite mountain range. It’s a challenging hike, so we’ve got an alternative option if you’d prefer.

Hike with cable car access
If you prefer to hike instead of trying the via ferrata, an alternative option is to walk along a track to check out WWI trenches, finishing at Passo Falzarego. From there you'll ascend in the Lagazoui cable car for a short walk up at the top where we'll all re-group.

Tell me about trekking through the Fanes-Senes- Braies Natural Park

The three day trek through Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park will definitely be one of the most memorable aspects of your trip! This amazing trek will take you past sheer granite peaks, snowclad mountains and glacial lakes. While it might be a bit of a challenge, the rewards are well and truly worth it!

The trek is close to sea level so you won’t be dealing with any altitude factors. The trail is 43 kilometres (26 miles) in total length and we average around 6 hours or 14 kilometres (9 miles) per day. The greatest elevation reached is 2,200 metres (7,220 feet) in the Natural Park. The trails are very well maintained so finding your way is never a problem. If you’ve not done a multi-day trek before and would like some expert advice on how to prepare for one, get in touch!

During the trek in Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park you’ll be spending two nights in mountain lodges, known locally as rifugio’s. All rooms have individual beds (no double beds), and share bathrooms. The rooms are mixed gender and can range from 2 beds to 10 beds, so you will be sharing a room with others, no single rooms are available. Meals are served in the restaurant and there’s a bar that accepts euros and credit cards if you fancy a drink.

You’ll only be carrying the gear on the list your guides will provide you with the night before - your excess gear and luggage will be stored securely for you in Cortina d’Ampezzo for when you arrive.

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