Trails of the Dolomites

Typical Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival & warm-up walk

   After transferring to Cortina d'Ampezzo, you set off on a short warm-up hike to prepare for the week ahead! Traversing through the forest to Drusé Pass, notable sights include the sheer peak of Tofane and the azure-blue Lake Ghedina before returning to your hotel.

   Walking distance: 5 km | Ascent: 500 m | Descent: 500 m

2. Day 2: Falzarego Pass to Valparola

   Today's walk begins at Falzarego and ascends to Lagazuoi Pass (2,573 metres). This route is particularly scenic, and also passes several ruins of historic military installations that add interest to the hike. You then descend through a gorge, passing Lake Lagazuoi and Scotini Hut, until you reach Valparola.

   Walking distance: 15 km | Ascent: 700 m | Descent: 1,100 m

3. Day 3: Croda da Lago Walk

   Following breakfast, a brief bus journey awaits to take you to Giau Pass, marking the starting point for today's hike. The initial phase involves an ascent through the fir forest of Formin Valley. As you gain elevation, the forest gradually gives way to a rocky terrain, guiding you through a boulder field at the base of the striking Croda de Lago. Progressing through Formin Pass (2,462 metres), you're treated to panoramic views of the majestic southern Dolomites, highlighted by the dominating presence of Civetta's north face. A brief descent leads you to Ambrizolla Pass (2,277 metres), from where you follow the path along the opposite side of Croda de Lago, eventually making your way back through the forest.

   Walking distance: 12 km | Ascent: 500 m | Descent: 1,000 m

4. Day 4: Hike around Tre Cime & Mount Paterno

   The initial part of today's walk is gentle underfoot, guiding you along the trail towards the south face of Tre Cime until you reach Laveredo Lake. Continue to explore Mount Paterno, passing by notable landmarks such as Pian del Cengia (Cengia flats) and Cengia Pass. The route then meanders around the Locatelli Hut, providing stunning vistas of Tre Cime's north face.

   The remainder of the day is spent traversing along the bases of several additional faces, offering glimpses of climbers scaling the renowned walls. Upon completing the final stretch over Medo Pass, you return to the Auronzo Hut, where a private shuttle awaits to transport you back to Cortina.

   Walking distance: 10 km | Ascent: 600 m | Descent: 600 m

5. Day 5: Hike around Tofana Di Rozes

   Today you have an early private transfer to the Dibona Hut, where your hiking adventure revolves around Cortina's most renowned peak, Tofana Di Rozes. The path ascends gradually towards the majestic south face of Tofana, tracing along the mountain's base, treating you to awe-inspiring views until you reach the western face of Tofana via Val Travenanzes.

   As you begin your descent, the trail zigzags down the slopes, guiding you between two of Tofana’s peaks. Following this path leads you to the Giusani Hut (2,580 metres), often utilised as a base camp for ascents to the main peak. Subsequently, you descend to the Dibona Hut, where a private shuttle awaits to transfer you back to the hotel.

   Walking distance: 12 km | Ascent: 950 m | Descent: 950 m

6. Day 6: Circular hike around Averau & the Cinque Torri

   This morning marks your final early transfer to Falzarego Pass, where your week in the Dolomites began. Today, you embark on the reverse route, navigating a path that faces the Lagazuoi and Tofane, nestled within a smaller cluster of peaks. The trail gradually leads you away from the alpine meadows, transitioning to a lunar-like terrain overlooking the trees below.

   Upon reaching the base of Averau, you circumnavigate its rocky summit, making your way to Nuvolau Pass. While the ascent to Nuvolau Peak is optional, we highly recommend it for the breathtaking panoramic views from the small hut at the summit, embodying the essence of the Dolomites. Returning to Nuvolau Pass, you proceed to the renowned Cinque Torri, celebrated for its climbing opportunities. As the hike concludes, a transfer awaits to take you back to Cortina, where you can savour your final night in this picturesque setting.

   Walking distance: 11 km | Ascent: 550 m | Descent: 800 m

7. Day 7: Depart

   Enjoy your last breakfast before checking out. If you haven't already done so, take some time to explore Cortina d'Ampezzo before departing.