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Hiking through the Dolomites
The Dolomites are a mountain range located in northern Italy, in the Alps region. They extend for approximately 120 kilometers, offering majestic landscapes and terrain suitable for hiking.
This spectacular mountain range, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers unique landscapes that attract thousands of visitors each year who come to enjoy its natural beauty and hiking trails. The towering peaks, sharp rocky peaks, lush green valleys and crystal clear lakes create an impressive backdrop that will delight nature lovers.
This region is renowned for its varied hiking trails, suitable for all levels of difficulty. From easy trails to more strenuous high-altitude hikes, the Dolomites offer a multitude of options so that every hiker can find what they're looking for. Many of the peaks in this mountain range exceed 3000 meters above sea level and the highest peak is Marmolada Peak, which rises to 3343 meters above sea level. Trekking enthusiasts can also enjoy the famous long-distance hiking trails, such as the Gran Paradiso trail or the Alta Via Dolomites trail.
In addition to hiking, the Dolomites also offer other outdoor activities, such as climbing, mountain biking, paragliding, skiing, snowshoeing, etc. The picturesque villages that dot the region also allow you to discover local culture and cuisine, with tasty regional specialties to taste.
Whether for a quiet getaway surrounded by nature or to take on sporting challenges, whether you want to travel in a group with a guide or on your own, it is an ideal place to recharge your batteries, connect with nature and be amazed by the beauty of these mountains.
When to go for a stay in the Dolomites?
Summer is the most popular season for hiking in the Dolomites due to the favorable weather conditions. Temperatures are generally mild, the days are longer and the trails are well maintained. You can enjoy lush green landscapes, flower-filled valleys and crystal clear lakes. Mountain huts are open, offering accommodation options.
Fall: Fall offers spectacular colors as the leaves on the trees change color. Temperatures are starting to drop, but remain pleasant for hiking. The trails are less busy compared to summer, which allows you to enjoy greater tranquility and open views. It's also the harvest season for local produce, so you can enjoy tasty foods during your hike.
Winter: The Dolomites are known as a renowned ski destination (Cortina d'Ampezzo ski resort having hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics), but it is also a fantastic place for winter hiking. The snowy landscapes are absolutely stunning and you can walk on well-marked trails with snowshoes. The mountain refuges are open to welcome you and offer you a unique mountain experience.
Spring: Spring is the time when nature wakes up after winter. The wildflowers are starting to bloom, the waterfalls are impressive thanks to the melting snow, and the temperatures are gradually rising. However, it is important to note that some parts of the trails may still be snowy or impassable due to melting snow, so it is best to inquire about conditions beforehand.
Which hiking trip to choose?
Our departures are scheduled regularly throughout the year. Prices vary depending on the length of stay, level of comfort and options chosen. Whether you prefer a star stay, with daily hikes departing from your accommodation, or roaming to spend the night in a refuge, we have options adapted to every type of traveler.
On our trips, it is possible to go on two mountain roaming options:
Star:
The stay takes place from a central gîte or hotel where you spend your nights in the same room (possibility of having a single room for a single supplement depending on availability). The hotel is often more comfortable and the weight of the bag is limited to the things needed during the day. The departure takes place in a loop every day.
When roaming:
Each night is spent in a different lodge or refuge. On these hiking routes with a more challenging level, it is possible that certain high altitude refuges are not accessible by car and that you will have to carry a bag for several days.
You can also choose between a group trip with a guide or on your own:
In a group with a guide: 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.
Self-guided: This type of stay allows you to choose your departure date, who you wish to leave with, on a route personalized to your wishes and in the type of accommodation of your choice. You will not be accompanied by a guide but we provide IGN maps, a roadbook and a guide application. To guide you and support you throughout your stay, we provide you with detailed maps of the region. This way, you can explore the trails in complete freedom, following the directions provided.
We take care of transferring your bag from hotel to hotel.
Which hiking trip to choose?
Our departures are scheduled regularly throughout the year. Prices vary depending on the length of stay, level of comfort and options chosen. Whether you prefer a star stay, with daily hikes departing from your accommodation, or roaming to spend the night in a refuge, we have options adapted to every type of traveler.
On our trips, it is possible to go on two mountain roaming options:
Star:
The stay takes place from a central gîte or hotel where you spend your nights in the same room (possibility of having a single room for a single supplement depending on availability). The hotel is often more comfortable and the weight of the bag is limited to the things needed during the day. The departure takes place in a loop every day.
When roaming:
Each night is spent in a different lodge or refuge. On these hiking routes with a more challenging level, it is possible that certain high altitude refuges are not accessible by car and that you will have to carry a bag for several days.
You can also choose between a group trip with a guide or on your own:
In a group with a guide: 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.
Self-guided: This type of stay allows you to choose your departure date, who you wish to leave with, on a route personalized to your wishes and in the type of accommodation of your choice. You will not be accompanied by a guide but we provide IGN maps, a roadbook and a guide application. To guide you and support you throughout your stay, we provide you with detailed maps of the region. This way, you can explore the trails in complete freedom, following the directions provided.
We take care of transferring your bag from hotel to hotel.
What are the most beautiful hikes in the Dolomites?
The altitude of the hikes starts at 1200 meters (altitude of Cortina d'Ampezzo) up to over 3000 meters. Here are some ideas for hikes to do in the Dolomites, with information on elevation, walking time and difficulty level:
Tre Cime di Lavaredo: This world-famous hike to three rocky peaks at around 3,000 meters above sea level offers breathtaking views of the famous Dolomites mountains. The elevation change varies depending on the starting point, but in general it is around 400 meters to the summit. Allow approximately 4 to 5 hours of walking for this hike. The difficulty level is medium.
Sentiero delle Odle: This tour located in the Val di Funes offers spectacular panoramic views of the Odle Mountains. The elevation gain is approximately 700 meters and the total hiking time is approximately 6-7 hours. The difficulty level is medium to difficult.
Alta Via 1: This is an emblematic trek that crosses the entire Dolomites massif. Departing from Lago di Braies in northern Italy (accessible from Venice and Cortina d'Ampezzo), you will spend each night in a refuge where the passages will take you on trails between lakes lLago di Braies lake, Lago di Lagazuoi lake, lake Lago di Coldai…) passes (col de la Forcella, col de Forcella Ambrizzola, col de Forcella Col del’Orso, col la Forcella di Zita Sud…) and forests. There are several stages to choose from, but in general the cumulative elevation gain is around 10,000 meters and the total duration of the trek is around 10 to 15 days of walking. The difficulty level varies depending on the stage, but in general it is considered difficult.
Lago di Sorapis: This hike leads to a magnificent bright blue lake surrounded by rock walls. The elevation gain is approximately 400 meters and the walking time is approximately 4 to 5 hours. The difficulty level is medium.
Cinque Torri: This hike accessible from the refuge of the same name offers incredible views of the famous Cinque Torri mountain groups. The elevation gain is low, around 200 meters, and the walking time is around 2 to 3 hours. The difficulty level is easy.
Val di Funes Trail: This picturesque valley offers magnificent mountainous landscapes, with green pastures, traditional chalets and panoramic views of the Dolomites. The walking time, the level of difficulty and the elevation depend on the passages chosen. Some trails may have a moderate elevation gain, while others may be steeper and require a good level of fitness. It is recommended to check the elevation of each trail before hiking.
Marmolada Trail: This hike allows you to climb the summit of Marmolada, the highest mountain in the Dolomites, offering panoramic views of the Alps and the chance to see the Marmolada Glacier. The difficulty level of the Marmolada Trail is considered moderate to difficult. It requires good physical condition and prior experience of mountain hiking. Allow 6 to 8 hours of walking for a height difference of around 1000 meters, it is recommended to start early in the morning to have enough time to finish the hike before nightfall.
Croda da Lago trail: Departure from a trail near Cortina d'Ampezzo at an altitude of approximately 2,236 meters to discover the magnificent Lago di Federa and splendid views of the Cinque Torri and Cortina d'Ampezzo . Regarding the level of difficulty, the Croda da Lago hike is classified as moderate to difficult. It is recommended for experienced hikers in good physical condition. Allow 5 to 6 hours of walking and 800 meters of elevation gain to the Croda da Lago refuge as well as the descent.
Going on a trip with La Vie Sauvage guarantees you:
To experience a quality stay with accommodation selected for their qualities by paying the right price for a room.
Our trips are supervised by experienced and passionate local mountain guides who will guide you through the trails, sharing with you their knowledge of the region and their love for nature. They will be there to help you fully enjoy your hiking experience.
A hiking trip to the Dolomites in Italy offers a unique travel experience for hiking enthusiasts. The breathtaking landscapes of this Alpine massif provide the backdrop for thrilling adventures through picturesque trails and majestic passes.
As for accommodation, you will have the chance to sleep in a refuge in the heart of the mountains, where you can spend each night in a different refuge, contemplating the magical reflections of the surrounding lakes. If you opt for a star stay, exploring the Dolomite mountains and returning each evening to spend the night at the hotel in Cortina d'Ampezzo, you will not only have the opportunity to confront the challenges of nature, but also to relax in a comfortable hotel.
Climbing the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo guarantees breathtaking views and a rewarding altitude experience. On our trips you also have the opportunity to visit the city of Venice.
A trip to Italy in the Dolomites is an experience in the Alps not to be missed for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.