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Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking

Monumental Mountain Beauty & Tyrolean Charm

 

Be dazzled by the monumental beauty of Italy's Dolomites, with its majestic pinnacles and fairy-tale spires, on this exhilarating mountain adventure. Each day you'll hike on scenic trails up to ridges and passes for spellbinding views, then descend to lush green valleys where wildflowers bloom in pastoral meadows. Along the way, you'll pass grazing mountain goats and storybook villages as towering rock walls change color with the sun. From your base in Cortina d'Ampezzo and Alta Badia, you'll cover all the must-see sites of this magnificent range, including the most famous peaks: Tre Cime de Lavaredo (9,839') and Marmolada (11,024'). Experience Tyrolean charm at comfortable mountain hotels and dine on delicious mountain cuisine.

  • Hike amid spectacular pillars, steeples, and pinnacles on this classic mountain adventure

  • See the Dolomites' most famous peaks including Tre Cime de Lavaredo and Marmolada

  • Indulge in hearty mountain fare and enjoy warm Tyrolean hospitality at charming inns

Contact an Expert

Arrive:

Venice, Italy

Depart:

Venice, Italy

Price: from $5,295

Duration:

8 Days

Departures:

See Dates

Group Size:

6-16 Guests

Min Age:

16 yrs

Activity:

Level 4

Moderate to difficult hiking on mountain terrain for 5-6 hours per day at approx 6,000-8,000ft. There is a mix of undulating terrain with some steep, rocky sections and patches of scree.
Learn more here.

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

  • Arrive in Venice & Journey to the Dolomites

    Day 1

    Land in Venice and meet your MT Sobek representative for a transfer to the chic alpine resort town of Cortina d'Ampezzo (4,016'). Check into your hotel, surrounded by stunning peaks and sweeping views. Take time to explore Cortina's charming streets before meeting your guide for a trip briefing at 6:30pm in the hotel lobby. Enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel restaurant.

    Accommodation: Hotel Cortina

    Located in Cortina d'Ampezzo, this accommodation boasts "authentic hospitality and elegance from another time." The rooms are perfectly furnished and the hospitality is fantastic. There is a cozy bar and restaurant in-house, offering a selection of delicious regional cuisine. Hotel Cortina also offers a wellness center with a sauna, Turkish bath, and the option for a variety of spa treatments. Nestled in the Dolomites with a stunning backdrop, the hotel is the ideal place to spend the night after a day of hiking and exploration.

    Accommodation: Franceschi Park Hotel

    Franceschi Park Hotel sits on the grounds of a magnificent private park in Cortina d'Ampezzo. Conveniently located within walking distance of the town center, it offers spacious, elegant rooms furnished in the typical Ampezzan style. Guests enjoy delicious homemade meals made by the owners themselves, and an array of amenities such as tennis courts, a sauna, solarium, Turkish bath, and Jacuzzi.

    Transportation: 2-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Dinner

  • Hike the Alpe di Sennes Circuit

    Day 2

    Start today's scenic hike in the Alpe di Sennes with a short transfer to Rifugio Malga Ra Stua (5,472'), a pretty family-run mountain hut. From here, hike uphill on a wide gravel trail to the Rifugio Sennes (6,942') and Rifugio Fodara Vedla (6,429'), where you'll enjoy lunch with lovely views. Next, follow a stony mule track across a series of grassy basins dotted with bushes — the ideal home of marmots and chamois. The final part winds steadily down through Arolla pine and larch trees back to Rifugio Malga Ra Stua. Return to your hotel in Cortina and dine on fine cuisine at a local restaurant.

    Accommodation: Hotel Cortina

    Located in Cortina d'Ampezzo, this accommodation boasts "authentic hospitality and elegance from another time." The rooms are perfectly furnished and the hospitality is fantastic. There is a cozy bar and restaurant in-house, offering a selection of delicious regional cuisine. Hotel Cortina also offers a wellness center with a sauna, Turkish bath, and the option for a variety of spa treatments. Nestled in the Dolomites with a stunning backdrop, the hotel is the ideal place to spend the night after a day of hiking and exploration.

    Accommodation: Franceschi Park Hotel

    Franceschi Park Hotel sits on the grounds of a magnificent private park in Cortina d'Ampezzo. Conveniently located within walking distance of the town center, it offers spacious, elegant rooms furnished in the typical Ampezzan style. Guests enjoy delicious homemade meals made by the owners themselves, and an array of amenities such as tennis courts, a sauna, solarium, Turkish bath, and Jacuzzi.

    Activity: 5 hours/7 miles hiking with 1,640' elevation gain/loss

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Follow Trails Below Tre Cime di Lavaredo

    Day 3

    Enjoy a challenging hike just below the face of Tre Cime di Lavaredo, one of the most scenic mountain landscapes in the Dolomites. Start with a picturesque drive to Rifugio Auronzo (7,650'), then follow gravel tracks to Lago di Cengia, where a series of steep zigzags leads to a stony amphitheater. Ascend to Forcella Pian di Cengia (8,200') for stunning views of the Tre Scarperi range and descend on a steep rocky trail. Enjoy lunch at Rifugio Locatelli (7,800') with epic views of north faces of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Hike under the elegant spires to Rifugio Lavaredo, where a hotel transfer awaits. Delight in the charm of Cortina's restaurants, cafes, and boutiques on your own this evening.

    Accommodation: Hotel Cortina

    Located in Cortina d'Ampezzo, this accommodation boasts "authentic hospitality and elegance from another time." The rooms are perfectly furnished and the hospitality is fantastic. There is a cozy bar and restaurant in-house, offering a selection of delicious regional cuisine. Hotel Cortina also offers a wellness center with a sauna, Turkish bath, and the option for a variety of spa treatments. Nestled in the Dolomites with a stunning backdrop, the hotel is the ideal place to spend the night after a day of hiking and exploration.

    Accommodation: Franceschi Park Hotel

    Franceschi Park Hotel sits on the grounds of a magnificent private park in Cortina d'Ampezzo. Conveniently located within walking distance of the town center, it offers spacious, elegant rooms furnished in the typical Ampezzan style. Guests enjoy delicious homemade meals made by the owners themselves, and an array of amenities such as tennis courts, a sauna, solarium, Turkish bath, and Jacuzzi.

    Activity: 6 hours/8 miles hiking with 2,000' elevation gain and 1,800' loss

    Transportation: 30-minute private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Explore Fanes-Sennes-Braies National Park

    Day 4

    Rise for a hike in Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park, an area of pristine natural beauty Starting at Fiames (4,240'), follow a winding woodland trail below Col Rosa and across Ponte Outo (4,550'). Ascend on a gentle uphill trail to the Malga Fanes (6,890') in the famous Altopiano di Fanes ski area. Continue to a charming mountain rifugio (6,760') where you'll spend the night.

    Accommodation: Rifugio Fanes

    The comfortable Rifugio Fanes comes with traditional Tyrolean charm and hearty mountain fare. The refuge has a long history, dating from 1928, and prides itself on a welcoming atmosphere and a deep respect for nature. Expect clean rooms, great staff, and another well-earned rest on your hut-to-hut adventure in Italy.

    Activity: 5 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 2,600' elevation gain and 100' loss

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Go Deep into Altopiano di Fanes

    Day 5

    Experience the beauty of the Altopiano di Fanes with its spectacular mountain panorama, including views of Marmolada (11,024') - the highest peak in the Dolomites. Set off from the charming mountain village of San Cassiano, where a chairlift takes you up to Piz Sorega (6,570'). From here, follow a wide ridge trail with 360-degree views to our lunch spot at Rifugio Bioch (6,850'). After lunch, descend to your comfortable hotel in the Alta Badia in South Tyrol.

    Accommodation: Hotel Christiania, La Villa, Alta

    Located in South Tyrol, this 4-star hotel offers "high quality facilities with plenty of modern, natural influences" high in the towering Dolomites. Rooms are delicately furnished with high-quality wooden floors and comfortable beds. The hotel bar, restaurant, and general ambiance embody a wonderful sense of peace and tranquility. The spa offers a variety of beauty treatments and massage therapy, perfect for rest and recovery after days of trekking in this beautiful region.

    Accommodation: Hotel La Majun

    Offering sweeping views of the Dolomites Mountains, this modest family-run hotel features hardwood floors and guestrooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and minibars, as well as safes and balconies. Other amenities include a wine cellar, a restaurant and a terrace, plus a library with a fireplace. A spa offers massages, beauty treatments and 2 saunas, as well as a steam bath and a hot tub.

    Activity: 5 hours/9.5 miles hiking with 1,000' elevation gain and 2,790' loss; alternative longer option available

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Ascend to Santa Croce Sanctuary

    Day 6

    Make a pilgrimage to the pretty white Santa Croce Sanctuary, perfectly situated at the base of the Sasso della Croce. Starting from the town of San Cassiano (5,250'), hike uphill on a paved road passing tiny hamlets and age-old barns along the way. A gravel trail gradually ascends through a pine forest, affording great views of Santa Croce and the picturesque Val Badia. At the church you'll have time to look around and revel in the vistas before walking to "Ranch Andre," a traditional farmhouse converted into an inviting lunch spot. After lunch, take a different trail back down into town and enjoy an evening at your leisure.

    Accommodation: Hotel Christiania, La Villa, Alta

    Located in South Tyrol, this 4-star hotel offers "high quality facilities with plenty of modern, natural influences" high in the towering Dolomites. Rooms are delicately furnished with high-quality wooden floors and comfortable beds. The hotel bar, restaurant, and general ambiance embody a wonderful sense of peace and tranquility. The spa offers a variety of beauty treatments and massage therapy, perfect for rest and recovery after days of trekking in this beautiful region.

    Accommodation: Hotel La Majun

    Offering sweeping views of the Dolomites Mountains, this modest family-run hotel features hardwood floors and guestrooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and minibars, as well as safes and balconies. Other amenities include a wine cellar, a restaurant and a terrace, plus a library with a fireplace. A spa offers massages, beauty treatments and 2 saunas, as well as a steam bath and a hot tub.

    Activity: 5-6 hours/7 miles hiking with 1,935' elevation gain/loss

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Hike from Passo Cir to Rifugio Puez

    Day 7

    Starting at Passo Gardena (6,955'), follow a rocky path through the sheer pinnacles of Pizzes da Cir up to the Passo Cir (8,100'). From here, a wider trail on undulating terrain leads to the Forcella Ciampai Pass (7,760') and up to Rifugio Puez (8,120') for lunch. A slightly longer (optional) route via Sass Ciampac (8,770') affords panoramic views of the Eastern Dolomites and Sella massif. Either way, you'll enjoy exceptional mountain scenery! An easy hike down on a scenic trail leads to the pretty village of Colfosco. Feast on a farewell dinner at a traditional farmhouse.

    Accommodation: Hotel Christiania, La Villa, Alta

    Located in South Tyrol, this 4-star hotel offers "high quality facilities with plenty of modern, natural influences" high in the towering Dolomites. Rooms are delicately furnished with high-quality wooden floors and comfortable beds. The hotel bar, restaurant, and general ambiance embody a wonderful sense of peace and tranquility. The spa offers a variety of beauty treatments and massage therapy, perfect for rest and recovery after days of trekking in this beautiful region.

    Accommodation: Hotel La Majun

    Offering sweeping views of the Dolomites Mountains, this modest family-run hotel features hardwood floors and guestrooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and minibars, as well as safes and balconies. Other amenities include a wine cellar, a restaurant and a terrace, plus a library with a fireplace. A spa offers massages, beauty treatments and 2 saunas, as well as a steam bath and a hot tub.

    Activity: 6 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 1,390' elevation gain and 3,000' loss

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Transfer to Venice & Depart

    Day 8

    Bid farewell to the Dolomites and transfer to Venice airport for your onward or homeward-bound flight. Or, alternatively, spend a few days in Venice — a remarkable and beautiful city like no other!

    Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast

show more

Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

What to Expect

 

Why take this trip with us?

Reason #01

This classic MT Sobek adventure showcases the iconic sights of the Dolomites, including Tre Cime di Lavaredo and the Santa Croce Sanctuary, in just one week.

Reason #02

MT Sobek has been operating hiking adventures in Italy for over 40 years and works with the best local guides in the business.

Reason #03

We blend challenging hikes with time to unwind and soak up the atmosphere of delightful mountain towns — it's the perfect pace!

Meet your guides

Luca Gasparini

Luca Gasparini

Luca Gasparini is a professional bilingual mountain guide with a true passion for the mountains and outdoor life. He started skiing at seven years old, and rock climbing and ice climbing at age 19. Luca currently lives in the Dolomites, where he works as a mountain guide leading heli skiing, ski touring, off-track-skiing, ski safaris, ice climbing and snow shoeing trips in winter. In the summer months he leads hiking, rock climbing, canyoning and mountaineering adventures.

Karin Pizzinini

Karin Pizzinini

Karin was born and raised in the Dolomites where she pursues outdoor activities year round including skiing hiking, rock climbing, ice climbing, cross-country skiing, and cycling. She has been guiding for over 10 years and takes great pride in sharing her knowledge & enthusiasm. In addition to being a hiking guide, Karin has been a science and chemistry teacher at the local high school and also teaches yoga, works as an art director, makes documentaries, and lives out her passion for travel and photography. She is fluent in six languages and can be spotted around the globe anywhere from Japan to Washington during the off-season!

Activities

Rewarding hikes through spectacular mountain landscapes, a panoramic cable car ride, and scenic drives. Local insider experiences give insight into traditional Tyrolean life.

Lodging

A warm welcome awaits at charming 4-star mountain inns with comfortable rooms and modern amenities. Enjoy one night at a mountain rifugio.

Climate

The Dolomites are a mountain climate. It can be very hot at lower elevations, but can also be freezing above 7,000 feet.

FAQ

Who will meet me on arrival?

Plan to arrive at the Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) by 9:30AM. An MT Sobek representative will meet you in the arrivals hall between 10:00AM and 10:30AM. We then transfer 2.5 hours to our group hotel in Cortina.

Will I have access to my luggage on night-4 at the rifugio?

No, you will not. On Day-4 you will need to carry your overnight essentials to the rifugio. This is the only day.

Can I wear trail shoes/cross training shoes?

No. Hiking boots with ankle support are required.

Can I skip a hike if I need a rest day?

On most days you can opt to stay back in town and explore the town or rest. On Day-4, we will hike to our rifugio in the mountains, and therefore staying back at the hotel is not an option.

Is Wi-Fi available at all of the hotels?

Yes!

When should I schedule my departure flight from Venice?

Our arrival at Venice airport is scheduled for the late morning on Day 8, so your overseas flight should be planned for no earlier than 2pm.

colfosco - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
hikers - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
wildflowers - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
braies - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
puez - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
locatelli - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
cortina - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
trail - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
tunnel - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
ferrata - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
couples - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
lavaredo - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
misty - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
fodara - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
braies hiker - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
panoramic - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking
moon - Italy Heart of the Dolomites Hiking

Testimonials

"We have traveled throughout the world, but never experienced a level of service and attention to detail as we did with MT Sobek."

Dennis G.
MT Sobek Guest

"I have traveled extensively around the world. The experience with MT Sobek was by far the best I have ever had. Thank you for such excellence."

Marianne W.
MT Sobek Guest

2022

Scheduled Dates

  • Jun 20 - 27, 2022
    $5,295 price per person dbl occ
    +$700 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date
  • Jul 25 - Aug 01, 2022
    $5,295 price per person dbl occ
    +$700 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date
  • Sep 05 - 12, 2022
    $5,295 price per person dbl occ
    +$700 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date
  • Sep 16 - 23, 2022
    $5,295 price per person dbl occ
    +$700 single supplement
    Wait List
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Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts where necessary
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted in the Trip Planner)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Go Private

Go Private

Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private Trip.

Choose from the selection of dates below for your group or if your preferred date is not available, we'll create a departure just for you.

Call or email us to get the ball rolling.

Private Trip Pricing:

2022 Pricing

6 to 7 guests from $5,595 per person double occupancy

8 to 9 guests from $5,395 per person double occupancy

	





	

		

			
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Price Includes

		
  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts where necessary
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted in the Trip Planner)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage
	

	

		
Price Does Not Include

		
  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses
	

	

		

			

				
Contact An Expert

				
800-974-0300
			

		

		
Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

		

	
	
	



	



				

			

		
				

			

				
Go Custom

			

			

				

					

						
Create Your Very Own Adventure

						
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.

					

					

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