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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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26kg of CO2-e PP per day
(158kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Meet at Cortina d’Ampezzo, transfer to the Bai de Dones area to commence hike (4hrs)
Meet the guide and group at 9:00am. From the delightful alpine ski town of Cortina, there is a group transfer before we hike towards the Tofano peaks, the location of the Dino Buzzati film “Désert des Tartares” (The Desert of the Tartars). Here the trail winds high along a wartime mule track, through rock needles and past bunkers and abandoned refuges. The views down to the Cortina basin and surrounding peaks are fabulous and a great reward for your efforts. After a tough first days ascent we'll relax in our mountain hut, the Rifugio Valparola, and absorb the fine Italian alpine hospitality. Distance: 11km/6.8mi, ascend +845m/2772ft, descent -400m/1312ft
Meals: L,D
Day 2
Descend towards Lago Lagazoui and hike to Pederu Hütte (6hrs)
The hike begins from Rifugio Valparola and descends gently to Rifugio Scotoni, a welcoming stop nestled below towering cliffs. From here, the trail climbs steadily towards a narrow saddle — the Forcella di Lago — where sweeping views of the Dolomites open up. Crossing the pass, you descend to the serene Lago Lagazuoi, its clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks. Continuing through a landscape of waterfalls, dwarf mountain pines and cascading streams crossed by wooden bridges, you may spot evidence of marmots along the way. The scenery gradually changes as you traverse alpine meadows and descend into the valley, reaching your overnight accommodation at Rifugio Pederü. Distance: 19km/11.8mi, ascend +880m/2887ft, descend -1460m/4790ft
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Hike through the Sennes Nature Park (5-6hrs)
Today’s walk leads you through the heart of the Sennes Nature Park, a pristine alpine landscape renowned for its dramatic geological formations and rich biodiversity. As you ascend through wide mountain pastures and rugged terrain, the striking peaks of Croda Rossa and Croda di Becco rise ahead, creating a spectacular backdrop. This stage offers a truly immersive experience in the untamed beauty of one of the Dolomites’ most legendary valleys. Overnight Biella Hütte. Distance: 15km/9.3mi, ascend +1050m/3445ft, descend -600m/1968ft,
Day 4
Ascend wooded trails to Dürrenstein Hütte (6hrs)
The eastern Dolomites offer more fabulous views as we ascend to the Rosalmhutte (2200m). The trail takes us beneath the stunning peaks of Rotwand and Croda Rossa. There are some steep sections as we make our way to Durrenstein hutte (2040m). Distance: 14km/8.7mi, ascend +600m/1968ft, descend -890m/2920ft
Day 5
Hike to Tre Cime, the iconic three peaks of the Dolomites (6hrs)
A visually stunning hike to the three towers, Tre Cime. We are right on the former Austro-Italian border where fierce fighting took place during WW1. Hiking under Strudelkopf we pass lake Dürrensee. Ascend for overnight accommodation at Drei Zinnen hutte with outstanding views to the towers and surroundings. Distance: 14km/8.7mi, ascend +1186m/3891ft, descend -834m/2736ft
Day 6
Hike around Tre Cime with picture postcard views throughout (5hrs)
Today takes us through tunnels, over passes and amongst a stark rocky landscape with 360 degree views of the mountains. The domination of Tre Cime is clear as we circuit these impressive spires. Overnight at Rifugio Lavarredo. Distance: 12km/7.5mi, ascend +788m/2585ft, descend -868m/2847ft
Day 7
Descend to Lake Misurina and transfer to Cortina (3.5hrs), trip concludes
Our last day of hiking takes us back down into the lush valley and Lake Misurina. In 1927 Aldo Bonacossa made numerous first descents on skis following today’s trail, which has become his namesake. Descending the Bonacossa Dolomites, we are in the shadow of the massive Cadini di Misurina. On arrival at the lake we are transferred back to Cortina where the trip concludes at approximately 12.30pm. We recommend not making onward travel plans before about 2.30pm. Distance: 7.5km/4.6mi, descend -750m/2460ft
Meals: B
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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7Days
Moderate to Challenging
4Days
Moderate