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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.
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Day 1
Meet at Cortina d’Ampezzo, transfer to trailhead and hike to Rifugio Lavaredo.(4hrs)
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
Day 2
Depart Tre Cime, crossing Strudelkopf Pass and descending to Dürrenstein Hütte (6hrs)
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: 16km/10m, Elevation: +800m/2625ft, -1200m/3937ft
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Traverse beneath Rotwand and Croda Rossa to Malga Ra Stua Hütte (6hrs)
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
Day 4
Hike through Fanes–Sennes–Braies Nature Park to Pederü Hütte (6hrs)
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
Day 5
Ascend Val Travenanzes and Val de Fanes to Rifugio Valparola (6hrs)
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
Day 6
Cross Falzarego Pass and hike through the Cinque Torri area to Rifugio Croda da Lago (6hrs)
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
Day 7
Descend from Croda da Lago to Cortina d’Ampezzo, trip concludes (4hrs)
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
What's included
What's not included
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.
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.
Per Person, Twin Share
Yes. As both the first and last days of the itinerary are hiking days, we strongly recommend arriving in Cortina d'Ampezzo at least one day before your trip begins. The group meeting is scheduled for 9.00am on Day 1 (subject to confirmation), followed by a bus transfer to the trailhead. To avoid delaying the group's departure, all travellers must be at the meeting point and ready to depart at the designated time. Arriving the day before allows for any unexpected travel delays and helps ensure a smooth start to your adventure.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, we recommend staying in San Vito di Cadore, a picturesque town approximately 12 km south of Cortina. Regular bus services connect the two towns, with the journey taking around 30 minutes to the Olympic Ice Rink in Cortina, our usual trip meeting point.
Gaiters are not needed
No. Unfortunately, CPAP machines cannot be supported on this hike. While the alpine huts do have limited power, we cannot guarantee a continuous and uninterrupted electricity supply throughout the trip. This applies to all accommodation types, including both private room upgrades and shared dormitory accommodation. If you require a CPAP machine overnight, we recommend discussing alternative options with your healthcare provider before booking this hike.
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.
Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.
With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love.
7Days
Moderate to Challenging
4Days
Moderate