Italy is a magnificent country for hiking, with its varied and spectacular landscapes. From the Dolomites mountain range in the north to the Mediterranean islands of Sicily and Sardinia, Italy offers a variety of landscapes that suit all types of hikers. Whether you're looking for alpine peaks, coastal trails, rolling green hills or picturesque valleys, you'll find plenty of options among our stays to satisfy your thirst for adventure.
For walkers and hikers, Italy offers an incredible diversity of terrain, cultural encounters and a beautiful scenery.
Each region of Italy brings its own charm and character. Imagine starting your trip walking around Venice, crossing bridges and quiet canals. You will get to see the beauty of the Dolomites whilst walking around the Lago di Sorapis, the tre Cimes and Cortina. With their dramatic rock formations, mountain huts and weeping valleys, this UNESCO-listed region offers one of Europe's most breathtaking hikes.
For coastal charm, the Cinque Terre is an unforgettable destination. Along the cliffs of the Ligurian Sea, you can walk along these five colorful villages, connected by centuries-ol footpaths that wind trhough terraced vineyards and olive groves. Further down in Italy, you can head to Sardinia where you hike through a wild, rugged beauty and quieter trails such as its coastal ridges, its hidden coves and its beautiful views of turquoise waters.
Further south, for a unique hiking experience, you can climb Stromboli in the Aeolian Islands, walk across the lunar landscapes of Vulcano. The Italian lakes combine both mountain paths and lakeside villages and gardens.
When is the best time to go hiking in Italy ?
- Spring : It's an ideal time for hiking in Italy. With mild temperatures, blooming flowers, trhe landscapes come alive. Regions like the Dolomites and the Italian lakes offer picturesque trails surrounded by greenery.
- Summer : Warm weather has made its way, making it perfect for high-altitude hikes - like in the Dolomites and Mount Viso. If you want to head to coastal regions, Cinque Terre and Sardinia offer amazing seaside trails, though you can expect them to be crowded during peak months of July and August. Avoid the midday heat and either go early mornings or late afternoons.
- Autumn : Due to its cooler temperatures and the beautiful display of fall colors, autumn is often a lovely time to visit Italy. The Italian lakes and the Aeolian Islands are less crowded, providing a peaceful hiking experience.
- Winter : Italy's mountainous regions transform into snowy wonderlands, it's the perfect time to try out winter sports such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, etc.
Where to go hiking in Italy ?
- The Dolomites : This site is perfect for multi-day treks like the Alta Via routes or scenic day hikes between towering peaks, dramatic ridgelines and lush alpine meadows.
- Venice : Canals and cobbled streets, no cars - Venice was made for walking. Discover hidden courtyards, countless bridges in this open-air museum on water.
- Sardinia : Untamed and still wild, Sardinia offers rugged coastal hikes like the Selvaggio Blu or even inland trails where you walk through limestone gorges and ancient forests.
- Cinque Terre : You hike from one colorful village to another overlooking the Ligurian Sea.
- Mount Viso : Towering peak in the Cottian Alps, Mount Viso is perfect for hikers, you can summit the mountain for breathtaking 360° views over France and Italy.
- Aeolian Islands : Hike to the crater od Stromboli and explore the steaming landscapes of Vulcano. Each island offers unique paths such as spectacular coastal and volcanic views.
What type of trip is offered ?
- Self-guided holiday in the Italy : Self-guided holidays allow you to go on tours as a couple, with friends or family on the dates of your choice. Before your departure, we reserve your hotels and provide you with all the necessary documents for your trip, including a detailed roadbook, a route map and vouchers for nights' accommodation. You can thus enjoy your trek in complete peace of mind, without worrying about the logistical organization.
- Guided holidays : Going in a group means living an experience together with participants you don't know before leaving. It also means being supervised by a mountain guide from the country who is a specialist in the region who will pass on all his knowledge of the mountain and the hiking route to you.
Why choose La Vie Sauvage for your next trip to Italy ?
When you go with La Vie Sauvage, you get an all-inclusive package, including hotel reservations, transfers and practical advice on how to explore Italy in the best possible conditions. Our holidays are designed to offer you total immersion in nature, with carefully selected itineraries and quality supervision.
Read more