Walking in the Dolomites
Walking in the Dolomites
Walking in the Dolomites
8 Days Starting in Cortina, Italy and ending in Campitello, Italy
Visiting: Cortina, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Dolomites, Colfosco, Campitello di Fassa
Tour operator:
Tour code:
JDO
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable walking holiday in the stunning Italian Alps with our "Walking in the Dolomites" tour. Traverse the dramatic limestone peaks, mountain passes, and high paths of the Tre Cime, Tofana, and Sella Mountains, while enjoying breathtaking views from refuges and mountain restaurants. Stay in handpicked accommodations, often featuring saunas, spas, or pools, and savor 7 breakfasts and 2 dinners. With 2 free days for rest or optional walks, this self-guided adventure offers flexibility and convenience, including luggage transfers, route notes, maps, and an emergency hotline. Experience the magnificent mountain scenery and rich history of the Dolomites, all packed into an impossibly small area.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Cortina
Location: Cortina
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Cortina
Make your own way to Cortina, an attractive high-altitude town in the northern extremity of the Veneto region of Italy. It is a fashionable winter resort that also springs to life in the middle of the summer.
Accommodation: For two nights, stay in a comfortable hotel located in the centre of Cortina, which is 200m from the Faloria Cableway and 150m from Corso Italia.
Day 2 : Circular Walk 16 Km /10 Miles, 6.5 H
Location: Tre Cime di Lavaredo
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Cortina
Meals Included: Breakfast
A 30-minute bus ride will take you to the start of today's walk. Begin trekking by climbing steadily into the Tre Cime mountain group. This is a famous block of three vertical sided finger-like towers. The route is often quiet and the climb unravels with anticipation. Head towards the Rifugio Locatelli, taking lunch at or near to the refuge, then descend around the Tre Cime to Rifugio Auronzo (there is also a shorter option of 12 km/7.5 miles, 5 h, which ends here). The descent is through pleasant forest to Lake Antorno. Return to Cortina by bus for your overnight accommodation.
Approx. ascent: 1170m/descent: 300m
Day 3 : Cortina To San Cassian 18 Km /11 Miles, 7 H
Location: Cortina d'Ampezzo
Accommodation Name: Hotel in San Cassian
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
From Cortina, after a few minutes by bus, begin your climb to the Rifugio Dibona at the end of the dirt road. From here, climb a little more and then traverse, with the vertical rock walls of the Tofana di Rozes (3219m) and Tofana di Mezzo (3240m) peaks above. Follow a high-level route to the Forc Lagazuoi pass. There is much evidence of WWI trench systems, fortresses and barbed wire here. Much of the rubble lying around Lagazuoi was not created by glaciation but by huge mines that were detonated in 1915-16. The descent is rocky but easier, down to a pretty lake. A steeper section takes you to the Rifugio Scotoni for drinks and strudel. Then onwards downhill, following the stream on the way to your hotel at Armentarola near Sare.
Accommodation: Stay in a well-appointed hotel in the rural location of San Cassian. The hotel has an indoor swimming pool and a sauna. Please note there are no local facilities nearby, however dinner can be taken at the hotel restaurant.
Approx. ascent: 1050m/descent 1115m
Day 4 : San Cassian To Colfosco 14.5 Km / 9 Miles, 6 H
Location: Dolomites
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Colfosco
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our walk in the Dolomites today is a complete change from the harsh rocky tablelands. You enjoy hiking through forests and climb on to a grassy ridge to the mountain refuge at Pralongia. The apfel strudel is particularly inviting here. Continue to Col Alti (1983m), which also has a nice little restaurant by the gondola station, with panoramic views of the Tofana and Sella mountain groups, our next destination. Descend steeply to Corvara and stay nearby in Colfosco. This is a pretty village with an old church, a few shops, a supermarket, bank and a couple of bars.
Accommodation: For two nights, stay in a welcoming hotel, offering beautiful landscapes right at your door step
Approx. ascent: 815m/descent: 800m
Day 5 : Free Day In Colfosco
Location: Colfosco
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Colfosco
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a free day in the picturesque village of Colfosco for a well deserved break or choose from some rewarding walks. If the weather is good, we recommend taking a morning bus up the short distance to Passo Gardena and then walking up to Sas Ciampac (2672m). This is a fantastic walking peak high above Colfosco and you will be rewarded by an impressive picnic spot on the summit. The descent takes you down into a glaciated valley where you might see Edelweiss flowers. You should get back to your accommodation by mid afternoon.
Approx. ascent: 650m/descent: 1130m
Day 6 : Colfosco To Campitello Di Fassa 21.2 Km / 13.2 Miles, 8 H
Location: Campitello di Fassa
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Campitello
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Starting your walk from Colfosco, return past the campsite and head up into the trees around the east side of the Sella group. We recommend taking a gondola part of the way to assist in the ascent (saves 600 metres and 2 hrs walking). You then traverse below the cliffs and above the forests, with magnificent views of the Marmolada and Dolomite peaks to the east. From Passo Pordoi, descend to Campitello (a gondola can also be used for the second half of this descent).
This route should only be undertaken in dry, clear weather. In the event of poor weather or too much snow, several connecting buses can be taken via Passo Pordoi and Canazei to Campitello.
Accommodation: Stay at a charming hotel on a half board basis. This is quite a large hotel with good size rooms and a small spa with a sauna.
Approx. ascent: 772m (if taking the gondola)/descent: 1510m
Day 7 : Free Day Or Day Walk Around Campitello Di Fassa
Location: Campitello di Fassa
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Campitello
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Use today as a rest day or choose from a variety of different walks of varied grades. Walking routes for the day include: a popular trail below the Sassopiatto from Col Rodela, with the option to climb the peak; and a bus ride to the foot of Marmolada, from where you can walk or ride up to the Marmolada glacier and the mountain hut there, perhaps for a warm Jaegertea.
Day 8 : Arrangements End After Breakfast
Location: Campitello di Fassa
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, depart for your onward journey.
What's Included
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Accommodation
7 nights in charming hotels -
7 breakfasts, 2 dinners
Enjoy 7 breakfasts and 2 dinners included in your tour package.
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7 nights accommodation in comfortable, charming hotels
Stay in comfortable, charming hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities for 7 nights.
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Luggage transfer
Your luggage will be transferred for you during the tour.
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Information pack including route notes & maps
Receive an information pack that includes route notes and maps to guide you on your journey.
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Emergency hotline
Access to an emergency hotline for any urgent needs during the tour.
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GPX files of each walk
Get GPX files for each walk to help navigate your routes.
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Bus and train journeys at the beginning and end of the tour
Bus and train journeys at the start and end of the tour are included.
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During the tour, transfers by bus or cable car
Transfers by bus or cable car during the tour are included.
What's Not Included
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be arranged separately.
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Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls
Personal expenses like laundry and phone calls are not covered.
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Unscheduled transfers required during the trip
Any unscheduled transfers required during the trip are not included.
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City tax - locally payable to the accommodations
City tax of 2-4 Euros per day, per person, is payable locally to the accommodations.
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A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
A supplement fee will apply if you are traveling solo or book a single room.
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Guide - this is a self guided holiday
This is a self-guided holiday, so no guide is included.
Accommodation
7 nights in charming hotels. The hotels described are our usual choice of accommodation, however if these are not available then alternatives are used and if these are of a different standard you will be informed at the time of booking. Baths/showers: Many rooms with ensuite/private facilities have a shower rather than a bath, usually because of limited space. Some hotels/guesthouses may however have a separate room in the house where a bath is available to guests.
Grading
Moderate to Challenging (Grade 4). While generally no tougher than our other Alpine treks, this route does involve some short, slightly exposed, albeit stunning, sections where a head for heights is needed. The two routes that are the most exposed are however options for the days when you have 2 nights at the same hotel so these can be avoided. No mountaineering experience is necessary for the trip but it is a trek most suited to those with previous experience of hillwalking and mountainous terrain. For this reason the trip is graded ‘moderate to challenging’. Average daily duration of walking is around 6-7 hours, although this will obviously vary according to the terrain, conditions, individual or group progress and weather. The trails in the Dolomites tend to be more rocky underfoot than many other areas of the Alps, so care must be taken along some sections. By using buses and cable cars some of the longer days can be shortened. In the event of extreme bad weather clients are expected to bear the cost of transport to the next night's stop.
Mode of Transport
Bus and train journeys at the beginning and end of the tour. During the tour, transfers by bus or cable car.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
You will stay in charming hotels for 7 nights. The hotels are usually well-appointed, often featuring amenities such as saunas, spas, or pools. If the usual hotels are not available, alternatives will be used, and you will be informed if these are of a different standard at the time of booking.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour package includes 7 breakfasts and 2 dinners. Additionally, 5 dinners, all lunches, and beverages are also included.
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Is luggage transfer provided during the tour?
Yes, luggage transfer is included in the tour package.
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What kind of support is available during the tour?
An emergency hotline is available, and you will also receive an information pack including route notes and maps, as well as GPX files of each walk.
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Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, city tax of 2-4 Euros per day, per person, is locally payable to the accommodations. Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls, unscheduled transfers required during the trip, and a supplement if you are traveling solo or book a single room are also not included.
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Is this a guided tour?
No, this is a self-guided holiday.
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What happens if the weather is bad during the tour?
In the event of extreme bad weather, clients are expected to bear the cost of transport to the next night's stop. Some routes can be shortened using buses and cable cars if the weather is poor.
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What is the difficulty level of the tour?
The tour is graded as 'Moderate to Challenging' (Grade 4). It involves some short, slightly exposed sections where a head for heights is needed. No mountaineering experience is necessary, but it is most suited to those with previous experience of hillwalking and mountainous terrain.
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Are there any free days during the tour?
Yes, there are 2 free days for resting or optional day walks. One free day is in Colfosco and another in Campitello di Fassa.
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What kind of transportation is included during the tour?
Bus and train journeys at the beginning and end of the tour are included, as well as transfers by bus or cable car during the tour.
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Self-guided holidays - inclusions
We have designed our self guided walking and cycling tours to include a number of elements to help you enjoy your holiday more, while leaving out some things to give you more freedom to tailor the trip to your needs and interests. Refer to the Trip Notes for more information on the specific inclusions for each trip. What’s included: - Detailed Route Notes - Accommodation - Luggage transfers - Any scheduled transfers as per Trip Notes - Emergency support - Some meals (mostly breakfasts) What’s NOT included: - Transport to/from start/finish points - Most meals - Any entrance/park fees - Travel insurance - Personal expenses along the way - Unscheduled transfers required during the trip
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Trip Grading & Preparation
Match your level of fitness & requirements Please read this information carefully to find out which grade is most suited to your level of fitness and requirements. To make the most of your Walkers' Britain holiday it is essential and your responsibility to choose a trip that is well within your capabilities. All our active holidays are graded and clearly marked in each trip description. All mountains have uphill and downhill sections and by definition walking and cycling demand some effort. However all things are relative, and these grades assume that you are a reasonably active person who enjoys walking or cycling. Few trips are extreme and most allow ample time for sightseeing and enjoying the scenery. If in doubt about the grade of any holiday, please contact us for advice or request the tour dossiers, you can also chat with our team about the right travel insurance for you. Grade 1 – Introductory These trips involve walking for four to five hours per day or cycling for 15-50 km per day at a slow but steady pace. You will need a reasonable level of fitness and good health. Suggested Preparation 30 minutes of aerobic-type exercise (either road cycling or jogging), three times a week for three months leading up to your trip. Grade 2 – Introductory to Moderate These trips involve a combination of what is described in our Introductory and Moderate levels. The emphasis is on introductory activity but including several moderate stages. Grade 3 – Moderate These adventures involve walking for up to six hours per day or cycling for up to 65 km per day, at a steady pace. You will need a good level of fitness and be in good health. Suggested Preparation 45 minutes of aerobic-type exercise (road cycling or jogging) three times a week for three months leading up to your trip. Grade 4 – Moderate to Challenging This trip grading involves a combination of what is described in our Moderate and Challenging levels. The emphasis is on moderate activity but including several challenging stages. Grade 5 – Challenging These active holidays involve walking up to nine hours per day in mountainous terrain with steep ascents and descents, pass crossing & alpine weather conditions, or cycling for up to 80 km per day over undulating terrain, with some steep and sustained hills. You will need an excellent level of fitness, be prepared to carry a daypack weighing up to 8 kg and be completely comfortable in adverse weather conditions. Suggested Preparation 1 hour of aerobic-type exercise five times a week for three to six months leading up to your trip. We also recommend regular hill walking with a pack in variable weather conditions or road cycling.
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Route notes
While our tours vary in terms of difficulty, route finding is made simple and convenient with our specially prepared package of maps and route notes. On many of the walks it is easy enough to navigate carefully using the route notes provided with a cursory glance at the map. As holidays reach the higher grades, you will need to take more care and we would expect you to have at least some knowledge of using a compass. Maps for our tours also vary considerably, from up-to-date GPS referenced additions, to old map copies which may still be the only ones obtainable for a particular area. The differences in style, grade and destinations of our tours are features that make them of continual interest and delight to our walkers & cyclists. Each set of route notes can contain the following elements relevant to the route: History and information on the region and the route you are walking. Detailed maps including points of interest and accommodation. Detailed step-by-step descriptions (with pictures) of the route and information on detours/optional additions. Transport timetables and information for getting there and away. Safety information and advice. Contact details of accommodation, transport, local representatives and emergency support. Advice for things to do along the way. Suggestions for dining and self catering.
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How our self-guided holidays work
Self guided walking and cycling holidays offer freedom, independence and choice, allowing you to tailor your holidays in the UK & Europe to your interest and travel style. Our detailed Route Notes will contain all of the information you need to plan how you would like to approach each day, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. As you are not limited by the constraints of group travel, you are free to shorten or lengthen your walk as the terrain permits and can even take a day off, although you may need to travel onto your next accommodation by taxi or public transport in order to do so.
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Low Deposit
Walkers' Britain requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of walkers' britain charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.