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Walk in the heart of the northern Italian Dolomites on an 8 day self-guided trip to discover the beauty and sheer magnificence of the majestic Alta Pusteria Valley. This itinerary invites you to wander through UNESCO-listed landscapes from the world-famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo (2,999m at the top) to the turquoise Lago di Braies. Based in a single, elegant hotel for your entire stay in the beautiful Tyrolean village of Dobbiaco, you will immerse yourself in the opulence of the Italian Alps, returning each evening to familiar comforts after a day of mountain discovery.
Your adventure begins in the charming village of Dobbiaco at Park Hotel Bellevue, your home for the entire trip. You'll enjoy hikes through some of the region's most stunning landscapes, including Lago di Braies, the Tre Cime ...
Your adventure begins in the charming village of Dobbiaco at Park Hotel Bellevue, your home for the entire trip. You'll enjoy hikes through some of the region's most stunning landscapes, including Lago di Braies, the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and the Nemes Alp. Explore serene chapels and villages along the Sacred Spaces Trail, marvel at panoramic alpine views from Mount Elmo and the Carniche Alps, and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of Ampezzo National Park. Highlights include a gondola ride to Rotwand pastures, spotting wildlife like marmots, and relaxing at alpine refuges such as Rifugio Ra Stua and Rifugio Locatelli. With each day offering something unique—from turquoise lakes and vibrant wildflower meadows to historical military trails—this journey showcases the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness of the Dolomites. The true luxury of this itinerary lies in its singular, elegant base. You will be hosted for 7 nights at the historic Park Hotel Bellevue, an oasis of alpine charm and refined comfort. This exclusive arrangement liberates you from the chore of daily packing and unpacking, allowing more time for pure discovery and relaxation. Each day, you will set out on a new path before returning to the familiar comfort and grand amenities of your hotel.
This exciting trip includes 7 nights in a family-run hotel on a twin-share basis. Meals are included specified in the itinerary. This is a self-guided tour offering you the freedom to walk and explore at your own pace in whichever order you choose.
Surrender to an experience where freedom, flexibility, and sophisticated indulgence intertwine, creating a truly seamless and memorable exploration of the Dolomites.
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to Red Centre. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points
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Make your own way to the enchanting town of Dobbiaco, you will check into your home for the next seven nights: the charming Park Hotel Bellevue. Today is yours to settle in and explore at your own pace.
Located in the heart of the Dolomites, the Park Hotel Bellevue combines alpine charm with classic elegance. The hotel’s refined interiors and traditional architecture create a welcoming and sophisticated atmosphere for travellers.
You are invited to relax in the hotel's wellness centre, which features a sauna and swimming pool to help you unwind after a day in the mountains. You can also book a variety of beauty treatments or relax in the cozy lounge with a good book. In the evening, enjoy a custom-made aperitivo from our bartenders.
Approx. 15km (9miles), 5 hours walking
Begin your journey from the hotel, strolling along serene country lanes that wind gently uphill through the idyllic Tyrolean countryside. As you walk, you'll pass through charming villages and quaint hamlets scattered across the hillside, each one home to its own picturesque chapel or church. These architectural gems not only offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes but are also adorned with intricate frescoes, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage.
Pause at Stadlern, a particularly scenic spot, perfect for a leisurely picnic. Here, you can take your time to soak in the stunning mountain panorama, with rolling peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. The peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty make it an ideal place to rest and reflect before continuing your adventure.
The return route leads you gently downhill toward Dobbiaco, following the lively Rienza River. The sound of the bubbling water accompanies you as you make your way back. Unwind in your hotel and relax by the picturesque garden with mountain views or a dip in the pool.
Approx. 17km (11 miles), 6 hours walking
Your day begins with a brief journey by bus, leading you to a spectacular gondola that will lift you to the high Rotwand pastures. At an elevation of 1,914 meters, you will find yourself standing in the shadow of the mighty Croda Rossa limestone peaks. From this breathtaking vantage point, a gentle descent awaits, guiding you along pine-scented forest trails to the ancient Kreuzbergpass, South Tyrol’s most easterly mountain pass.
As you continue, the path ascends toward the Malga Nemes refuge, a panoramic sanctuary that offers an idyllic setting for lunch. Here, surrounded by open, sun-drenched pastures, you may witness marmots foraging freely in their natural habitat. Your journey concludes with a descent along a wide woodland track to the charming Tyrolean village of Moos, where a bus will await to escort you back to Dobbiaco.
For those who wish to further immerse themselves in the landscape, a longer walking option is also available.
Come evening, dine in the elegant, glass-walled winter garden and experience a delightful blend of Italian cuisine and the bold flavours of South Tyrol.
Approx. 19km (12 miles), 7 hours walking
Prepare for a day of unparalleled beauty as you embark on a full-day hike through some of the most breathtaking scenery the Dolomites have to offer. With approximately 800 meters of both ascent and descent, this trail is a journey of rewarding challenges, promising incredible views at every turn. Your adventure begins with a gentle walk along the turquoise shores of the magnificent Lago di Braies, its crystalline waters reflecting the sky and surrounding peaks. From there, the path begins its ascent, winding through the picturesque Alte Kaser pastures where wildflowers bloom in vibrant bursts of colour. Continue your climb to reach the serene mountain bowl of Hochalm, a tranquil alpine meadow where you will pause for a well-deserved lunch amidst the grandeur of the mountains. The descent guides you through a dramatic, sculpted valley, a landscape framed by towering, majestic peaks and striking, sheer cliffs that speak to the ancient power of nature.
A shorter hiking option is also available.
Approx. 16km (10 miles), 6 hours walking
Venture into the breathtaking Ampezzo National Park, located in the Italian-speaking Veneto region. Your journey begins at Cimabanche, where you'll follow the path of a disused railway line, a flat and scenic route perfect for easing into the adventure. From there, the trail ascends through the picturesque Gotres Valley along a historic military road, offering glimpses of the region’s rich history and rugged terrain. The climb leads to Forcella Lerosa, a stunning high mountain pass known for its expansive pastures framed by dramatic limestone peaks that seem to touch the sky.
Pause here to soak in the awe-inspiring panoramic views, a reward for the effort of the climb. From this vantage point, you can take in the pristine beauty of the Dolomites, surrounded by nature at its finest. After savouring the views, the trail descends gently into the lush meadows surrounding Rifugio Ra Stua, a charming alpine refuge where you can take a well-earned break, enjoy a snack, or simply relax in the serene environment.
To conclude your hike, a peaceful forest footpath winds its way back toward the vibrant mountain town of Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Approx. 14km (9miles), 6 hours walking
This hike takes you along the crest of the Carniche Alps, offering stunning views and a mix of terrain to explore. The day begins with a bus ride followed by a cable car ascent (tickets need to be purchased locally) that takes you up towards Mount Elmo, which sits at an elevation of 2,041 meters. From there, you’ll follow an old military supply route that leads to the Sillianer Hutte, a mountain refuge located in Austria. The route along this ridge serves as a natural border between Italy and Austria, providing expansive views of the surrounding Austrian Alps.
After enjoying the scenery at the Sillianer Hutte, the trail continues with a descent along a less clearly defined rocky path. This section crosses through the peaceful mountain pastures of Klammbachalm, an area known for its alpine beauty and grazing livestock. The trail eventually leads you to the Klammbachhutte, a charming mountain hut where you can take a break and perhaps enjoy refreshments.
The final stretch of the hike follows a forest track that winds its way back down to the village of Moos. The hike offers a mix of well-maintained trails and rugged paths, making it an engaging and varied experience for hikers who enjoy both natural beauty and a touch of historical significance from the old military route.
As a magnificent finale to your week, you will take a local bus to the high-altitude Rifugio Auronzo, situated at the base of the world-renowned Tre Cime di Lavaredo. These three colossal, freestanding limestone towers, reaching a height of 2,999m, are an iconic symbol of the Dolomites, drawing hikers from across the globe.
From Rifugio Auronzo, you will begin your trek along a wide, gravel track originally constructed by soldiers during the First World War. This relatively flat path takes you towards Rifugio Lavaredo. As you proceed, the trail gently ascends to the Forcella Lavaredo viewpoint. Here, you will be rewarded with the first, and arguably most classic, viewpoint of the three immense spires rising dramatically before you.
Continuing on, the path descends into a vast basin before rising again toward Rifugio Locatelli (Dreizinnenhütte). From this vantage point, you gain what is considered the finest perspective of the Tre Cime's iconic north faces. The trail then leads you around the base of the peaks, offering ever-changing views of the surrounding Sexten Dolomites as you complete the loop back to your starting point at Rifugio Auronzo.A longer walking option is also available.
Savour one final alpine breakfast, a moment of quiet reflection amidst the grandeur of the mountains, before bidding farewell to this enchanting landscape. Depart at your leisure making your own way for your onward journey.
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
- The departure and finish point is Dobbiaco
- The nearest airport to Dobbiaco is Bolzano/Bozen (BZO) Airport, approximately 71.9 km away. Another nearby option is Innsbruck Airport in Austria, which is also relatively close.
- Airport transfers are not included. Joining location starts in your accommodation at Dobbiaco in the evening of Day 1 of the itinerary making your own arrangements there. Alternatively, airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us.
The Dolomite Mountains offer some of the best weather in all of the Alps – perfect for year-round active adventures. As a mountain range, the Dolomites receive less precipitation on an annual basis than do the majority of the Alps. During the summer temperatures vary between 20°C – 22°C, while temperature starts dropping a bit in September. Equally, at all times you need to be ready for the occasional stormy day.
The walking level on this trip is rated Level 3 Moderate.
Level 1 Leisurely: Experience is not necessary; anyone fit and healthy enough to complete a weekend walk will thrive. Walks are often optional. Trails are seldom flat, so expect a reasonable number of ascents and descents. You normally walk for two to five hours per day; daily ascents will likely be around 985ft to 1,640ft (300m to 500m), perhaps with the odd day around 1,970ft (600m).
Level 3 Moderate: Expect easy, medium-length walks or harder, shorter walks. Some experience is useful, but not essential. Good health and reasonable fitness are important. There will be walks at higher altitudes and some longer, harder days. Generally, though, the underfoot conditions will be fair. A walking day is normally five to seven hours; daily ascents will likely be around 1,640ft to 2,625ft (500m to 800m), perhaps with the odd day around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m).
Level 5 Challenging Fitness is vital with extended walking in mountainous terrain. You might also experience high altitude, challenging climates and remote locations. Trekking experience is desirable, but not vital if you are confident in your physical condition. Walking days are usually between six and eight hours, although they may be longer for passes or peaks. Daily ascents can be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Level 7 Tough: Trekking experience is essential and preferably at altitude. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. You may encounter extreme altitude and weather conditions and may need to use ice axes and crampons. Stamina is essential as walking days last six to nine hours (sometimes more on occasions). Daily ascents will likely be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Split and optional grades: Where a trip falls between two grades, an intermediate or ‘split’ grade is used. For example, Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). Occasionally there are optional ascents available; in this case, the grade will be highlighted.
This is a centre-based independent walking holiday. Walks can easily be extended/shortened by using the complimentary 7- day Mobil Card which gives unlimited access to local buses and selected cable cars and chairlifts. The walking is along varied and well signed footpaths, both at high altitude and in the lower valleys. There are moderate ascents on most days, and longish descents on days when a cable car is used to gain altitude. Walkers should have a good fitness level and be confident on uneven terrain. This trip is unsuitable for severe vertigo sufferers, but will appeal to people wanting challenging high level mountain walking by day, and luxury 4-star hotel accommodation at night.
As this is a self-guided holiday there is no group and no leader. There may be others on the same departure date as you, but you will not be organised together. You are provided with route notes for each day, which begin with an overview of the walk and advice on lunch, followed by detailed instructions. The route notes contain a 24 hour emergency assistance telephone number should you need it and in emergencies, the hotelier is normally able to dispatch a taxi or pick you up themselves. They may wish to charge for this service.