Dolomites Adventure
Dolomites Adventure
Dolomites Adventure
9 Days Starting and ending in Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy
Visiting: Venice, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Dobbiaco, Rifugio Fodara Vedla, Rifugio Fanes, Alta Badia, Settsass, Rifugio Lagazuoi
Tour operator:
Tour code:
Dolomites
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
5 - 14
Age range:
16-80
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
You're invited on our Dolomites Adventure hiking tour that'll bring you to a quieter time as you explore Italy's Dolomite Mountains, filled with charming villages and breathtaking landscapes. Indulge your senses as you hike amongst the Dolomite Alps, let fresh air fill your lungs, wildflowers tease your nose, and local wine and cheese tempt your tastebuds on our 9-day Dolomites Adventure. Starting and finishing in Venice, you'll enjoy nine incredible days of exploring the hidden secrets of the Dolomites. Wander through charming villages like Cortina and Dobbiaco, circumnavigate the soaring peaks of Tre Cime de Lavaredo, discover why Alta Badia is known as the 'heart and soul' of the Dolomites and challenge yourself with a Via Ferrata atop Cinque Torri. And yet, the Dolomites with Active Adventures is so much more than outstanding landscapes and adventure. You'll experience the incredible hospitality of the local Ladin people, stay in very comfortable mountain hotels and have the chance to taste the amazing variety of local food and wine.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Venice, Hike Near Cortina D'ampezzo
Location: Venice, Cortina d'Ampezzo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Franceschi, Cortina
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner,
Our trip begins in Venice, one of the most iconic cities in the world. If you’ve flown in this morning, we’ll meet you at Venice Marco Polo Airport and make our way towards Cortina d’Ampezzo in the heart of the Dolomites. As we head north, the foothills rapidly steepen and become more colorful around every corner. Amidst rolling green meadows and high rock monoliths, Cortina village is one of the most picture-perfect mountain towns in the world. There’s almost not a blade of grass, roof tile, or street cobblestone out of place. Once we arrive in town we’ll walk to a local restaurant for lunch, where you’ll have the opportunity to try the local beetroot ravioli! After lunch, we‘ll take an introductory hike to the Cascade di Fanes and this afternoon you’ll have a chance to briefly explore the cobbled streets of the iconic mountain town of Cortina before dinner. Hiking:5 kilometers (3.1 miles), 2-2.25 hours, elevation +/- 150 meters (492 feet)
Day 2 : Hiking Circumnavigation Of Tre Cime De Lavaredo
Location: Tre Cime di Lavaredo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Franceschi, Cortina
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
Today we’ll circumnavigate the most iconic landmark in the Dolomites – the soaring peaks of Tre Cime de Lavaredo. First climbed in the 1930s, these three massive rock monoliths, that seemingly rise out of nowhere in isolation from other peaks, loom large high over the valleys below. It’s difficult to look away! If there’s one thing to peel your attention away from the scenery, it’s a family-made lunch in an Italian refugio, followed by the best espresso you’ll ever receive. Later, as we hike further around the peaks, their shape and form evolve with every step – the views keep getting better! Keep an eye out for bunkers and old barracks on the trail today, as this area is dotted with reminders of the First World War. After our hike, we’ll drive a short distance back to Cortina d’ Ampezzo.Hiking:13 kilometers (8 miles), 5-7 hours, elevation +/- 610 meters (2,000 feet)
Day 3 : Bike From Cortina To Dobbiaco Or Free Day In Cortina
Location: Cortina d'Ampezzo, Dobbiaco, Cortina d'Ampezzo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Franceschi, Cortina
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch,
This morning we’ll ride along the converted Val di Landro railway line – once the only communication link between the towns of Calalzo, Cortina and Dobbiaco on the Austrian border. Non-operational since the 1960s, this route cuts through some of the most iconic and dramatic scenery in the Dolomites. We’ll ride over iron bridges that skirt deep canyons, through tunnels and across gentle passes that afford dramatically beautiful views of some of the Dolomites’ steepest peaks, including Tre Cime de Lavaredo. If you prefer, there’s plenty of free time in Cortina to relax and tonight you’ll have the evening free to choose from one of the many restaurants for dinner.Biking:Optional: 54 kilometers (34 miles), 5-7 hours, elevation +/- 289 meters (950 feet); Or one way: 27 kilometers (17 miles), 3-4 hours
Day 4 : Hike Cortina To Rifugio Fodara Vedla
Location: Rifugio Fodara Vedla
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Refugio Fodara Vedla
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
Today we’ll begin our hike into the heart of the Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park. After a short drive deeper into the mountains, we’ll set off on the trail, following the turquoise Boite River higher up the Valon Scuro with the massive Piccola Croda Rossa looming large above us. We’ll have lunch at Rifugio Senes and afterward, it’s an easy 1-hour hike down to our accommodation for the night at Fodara Vedla, a rifugio surrounded by massive peaks to the south, east and north, and the vast Vallone di Rudo to the west. For those who are keen on more hiking today, we’ll hike above Fodara Vedla to Col de Lasta where we’ll be greeted by 360-degree views of the highest peaks in the Dolomites. Every way you look you’ll be blown away by orange and red spires, including the imposing Croda Rossa (10,320 feet), saturated in the late afternoon light. It’s a sight to behold!Hiking:13.7 kilometers (8.5 miles), 4-6 hours, elevation + 920 meters, elevation - 300 meters (984 feet)Hiking:Optional: 5.3 kilometers (3.2 miles), 1-3 hours, elevation + 490 meters (1,608 feet), elevation - 130 meters (426 feet)
Day 5 : Hike To Refugio Fanes
Location: Rifugio Fanes
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Refugio Fanes
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
The morning light here in Fodara Vedla lends itself kindly to the peaks immediately surrounding this small hamlet – it’s worth getting up early for! After breakfast, we’ll hike down through the larch fir forest and into the Pederu valley. As we descend the valley, the towering peaks of the Lavinores Range reveal themselves in dramatic red and yellow – typical coloring of the Dolomite rock. After a mid-morning break at Refugio Pederu, we’ll head deeper into the natural park and ascend the Vallone di Rudo and into a wide open basin, home to Refugio Lavarella, a comfortable family-run mountain hotel. This place is in an incredible setting, surrounded by massive peaks and small alpine lakes. After lunch, it’s an easy stroll to Refugio Fanes, through the moonlike landscapes of the Pian Dies Sarens trail to Passo di San Antonio, where we’ll spend the night. If you’d like, you can join us for an extra hike this afternoon taking advantage of the many trails within the Vallone di Rudo or simply relax at the Refugio. Later we’ll have the chance to sit back on the deck of our refugio and enjoy an espresso or glass of wine while soaking up the incredible vistas.Hiking:7 kilometers (4.3 miles), 3-5 hours, elevation + 700 meters (2,300 feet), elevation - 620 meters (2,040 feet)Hiking:Optional: 9 kilometers (5.5 miles), 3-5 hours, elevation +/- 426 meters (1,398 feet)
Day 6 : Hike To Alta Badia
Location: Alta Badia
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Conturines or similar, San Cassiano
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
Today we’ll hike out of the Fannes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park, on to the Gran Fanes plateau, and drop down and over the Col de Locia. The landscape here changes around every corner – from sweeping meadows and steep rocky ridges to deep valleys of larch forest. The final stages of today’s hike bring us down to Alta Badia – often described as the “heart and soul” of the Dolomites. With tiny villages dotted along the valley, this region is a step back in time, and picture postcard beautiful. Our home for the next couple of evenings is the village of San Cassiano at the head of the valley.Hiking:11.4 kilometers (7 miles), 5-6 hours, elevation + 250 meters (820 feet), elevation - 650 meters (2,132 feet)
Day 7 : Hike The Setsass Dolomiti Range
Location: Settsass
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Conturines or similar, San Cassiano
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
This morning we’ll drive a short distance to the Valparola Pass, where we’ll set off on a hike on the Setsass Dolomiti Range. This magnificent high ridgeline trail affords superb 360-degree views the whole way. No matter which way you turn, you’ll have the highest peaks in the Dolomites up close and personal and on show – Conturines, Sas de Pütia and Marmolada (to name just a few), the “Queen of the Dolomites”. After lunch at the Pralongia High Plateau, we’ll head down a trail through an area of lush green pastures and wildflowers dotted with traditional chalets, to our hotel in San Cassiano.Hiking:15 kilometers (9.3 miles), 5-6 hours, elevation + 730 meters (2,395 feet), 785 meters (2575 feet)
Day 8 : Via Ferrata Mario Fusetti And Hike Wwi Tunnels Of Lagazuoi
Location: Rifugio Lagazuoi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Conturines or similar, San Cassiano
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
This morning we’ll drive to Passo Valparola where a new Via Ferrata has been inaugurated in October on the Sasso de Stria peak. From the ‘Forte Tre Sassi’ WW1 museum we'll hike along the Goiginger gallery and the trail continues across the saddle, home to Austro-Hungarian post, reaching the start of the Via Ferrata in around 25 minutes. This relatively short Via Ferrata is great to test your climbing skills and we'll begin the climb on the equipped trail, reaching the trenches located 110m/360’ above, in approximately 40 minutes. The Via Ferrata ends beneath the summit, which can be reached following the already existing trail. Lieutenant ‘Mario Fusetti’ climbed the Sasso di Stria peak to occupy the summit in 1915 during WW1. To commemorate the sacrifice of these soldiers, in the year of the centenary of the end of the First World War, the Army's Alpine Troop secured the original trail with sturdy bolts and cables, to reach the summit from the South West side, opening up to wonderful 360 degree views over the neighboring mountain ranges. For others who chose not to do the Via Ferrata, you'll walk along a track to check out WWI trenches, finishing at Passo Falzarego. From there you'll ascend in the Lagazoui cable car for a a short walk up at the top where we'll all re-group and enjoy lunch.
After lunch, from here, we’ll hike up to the Galleria del Lagazuoi, a fascinating open air and underground WWI museum carved into the mountains. This is where the Italian and Austro–Hungarian armies dug shelters out of the mountains, transforming them into an impenetrable 20th Century fortress of tunnels, trenches and machine gun posts. A number of different subterranean routes take us on a behind the scenes tour of some of the dramatic high altitude battles that were fought in World War 1.Hiking:4 kilometers (2.5 miles), 1-2 hours, elevation + 140 meters (459 feet), elevation - 800 meters (2,624 feet)Notes:Optional Via Ferrata Experience: 2 hours. This option must be selected at the time of booking.
Day 9 : Return To Venice, Depart
Location: Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast,
Today is the last day of your trip in the Dolomites. You’ll go home knowing you’ve hiked, biked, explored by via ferrata, and immersed yourself in one of the most spectacularly beautiful regions on the planet. We’ll head back to Venice this morning in time for flights leaving in the afternoon. If you have more time here, we’re happy to help arrange extra accommodation.
What's Included
-
Accommodation
Accommodation for the entire period you are with us.
-
Meals
All meals except where indicated in the itinerary.
-
Guide
Highly experienced guides and leader on this tour.
-
Transport
All ground transportation and cable cars from trip start to end.
-
Industry-leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
-
Your own ‘Travel Wallet’, an online space with everything required for your adventure
-
Our knowledgeable Customer Service Team to answer your queries - just a phone call, email or chat away
-
Customer Service pre-trip phone calls to ensure you’re 'trip ready'
-
Unlimited snacks to keep you fueled
-
Flights as outlined in the itinerary
What's Not Included
-
Additional Services
Gratuities for your guides at the end of your fabulous trip.
-
Insurance
Travel insurance
-
International Travel
International flights are not included.
-
Optional
Optional additional activities.
-
Alcoholic beverages
-
Additional equipment available to rent as per your itinerary
Trip Notes
Check out our Q&As
-
What is the minimum group size?
The min group size is 5 people.
-
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes, Local English speaking guide on this tour.
-
What is the tipping policy?
Tipping is not expected in Europe however you might want to tip a little extra if you feel someone gave really fantastic service, but it's not really necessary. Many of our people also choose to tip their Active Adventures Europe trip leaders and local guides and we recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per Trip Leader/guide.
-
What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
Activity Level 4: Challenge Accepted, I'll let my trusty guides sweat the small things, so I can focus on my goal. Getting to the top, reaching the end, achieving my dreams! Sure, it'll be tough, but the views will be worth it. Hiking / Trekking: Typically, 4–6-hour hikes with options for more, sometimes with limited or no vehicle support and nearly always with ascents and descents. Altitude: Some trips at this level will reach a significant altitude. We are here to help you manage that and make your experience one to cherish for a lifetime. Biking & Kayaking: If one, or both, of these activities are 'your thing,' there are trip options in this range, allowing you to be on two wheels or with a paddle in your hand for most of the day
-
Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
As detailed in itinerary.
-
Are flights included in this tour?
International/Domestic Flights are not included.
-
What is the maximum group size?
The max group size is 14 people.
-
Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
You are allowed one piece of luggage on your trip, plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage should not exceed 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and can be anything from a duffle bag to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase. You’ll also want a good quality backpack sized 25-30 liters (2000 cubic inches) to use throughout the days. You'll also need an overnight trekking pack for the multi-day hike in the Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park, though your daypack could double as your overnight trekking pack if you bring along a 30-40 litres size (2000- 3000 cubic inches).
-
Are all entrance fees included in the price?
Yes, All park and other entry fees are included.
-
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You are covered by our Active Adventures Assurance policy.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1996
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Our trips attract a wide range of people from all different backgrounds, countries and ages, which makes our small group adventures all the more interesting and fun. All our people tend to enjoy active lifestyles, great food, good company and new experiences. If this sounds like you, then you’ll be in good company
-
What documents will I receive before I travel?
We send online booking information via our club page you’ll gain access to your trip notes, destination information, a detailed gear list and all the information you need for your trip. There are a few things to fill in – medical and dietary information, extra accommodation requests, gear hire requests etc. – to ensure you are well prepared for your adventure vacation.
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Travellers Against Plastic
-
Can I join the tour once it has departed?
No
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes,
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
When it comes to the safety of our guests, it has always been our number one priority. We’ve introduced strict protocols to adhere to current Covid safety guidelines that are relative to the destination, country and location of your adventure – these are dependent on the current rules and restrictions that are in place at the time of your trip.
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Health and safety are just as important as the amazing places in the most stunning parts of the world we travel. Another focus of ours is having a good place to rest and rejuvenate at the end of a busy day, and to make sure we are fully charged for the next day’s activities, so you’ll always find yourself in a clean, comfortable room.
-
Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
No
Reviews from travellers on this tour
1 Select your preferred date
Saturday - Sunday
Jul 20, 2024 - Jul 28, 2024Saturday - Sunday
Aug 31, 2024 - Sep 08, 2024Wednesday - Thursday
Sep 11, 2024 - Sep 19, 2024Saturday - Sunday
Sep 21, 2024 - Sep 29, 2024Saturday - Sunday
Jun 07, 2025 - Jun 15, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jun 21, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 06, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jul 05, 2025 - Jul 13, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 20, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jul 19, 2025 - Jul 27, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Aug 30, 2025 - Sep 07, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 13, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 20, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Free Date Changes
Active Adventures allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 90 days before the start of the tour.
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Active Adventures allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform active adventures, 90 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Active Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of active adventures charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
COVID-19 Proof of Vaccination or Testing For trips in the United States:?Vaccination is not required. All guests must adhere to the current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regulations and guidelines.
For all International trips (all destinations except the United States):?All guests aged 13 years and above must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least fourteen (14) days prior to the commencement of travel.?
We accept vaccines authorized or recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
Adults who cannot be vaccinated due to valid medical exemptions will need to provide a negative COVID-19 test result (official paper or official electronic record) showing the test was carried out no later than 72 hours before the trip starts. Testing must be performed by an approved entity.
Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or negative test (where applicable) must be provided prior to the start of your trip (only official vaccination card or electronic record will be accepted).
Proof of Vaccination or Negative Test must include identifying information (full name), as well as the vaccination or the test dates.
Proof of Vaccination must demonstrate the final dose of the vaccine was administered at least fourteen (14) days prior to the commencement of your trip.
You will be required to upload Proof of Vaccination into your Travel Wallet prior to departure.
If Proof of Vaccination or a Negative Test is not produced at the commencement of travel with us, you will not be allowed to travel. You will not be eligible to receive a refund of any sums paid to us if this occurs.??
Guests must comply with any additional vaccination or testing requirements and/or additional health and safety measures that are required to travel in their chosen destination. We recommend using?CIBT for up-to-date requirements.?
We do not grant any exceptions to this vaccination and testing policy.?