dolomites-dolomites-traverse

Guided groups

Hiking

lvl. 4
Essential
Multi-day hike
Réf : E35A
8 days from 1890 € Book / Enquire

Our trip

  • Covers the best spots and trails in the Dolomites (Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Fanes, Puez....), from East to West.

  • A genuine traverse of the Northern Dolomites, passing through many beautiful valleys, 3 natural parks and World Heritage Sites.

  • An overnight stay at the foot of the Tre Cime, a must-do!

  • An optimized logistics with luggage transfer by vehicle every other evening.

  • An easy meeting point in Bressanone.

This exceptional route gracefully showcases the captivating diversity of the Dolomite landscapes: imposing stone citadels, wind-sculpted mineral ridges, fragrant conifer forests, and breathtaking alpine meadows. The Alta Via unveils majestic mountains, soaring proudly towards the sky, high mountain passes offering striking panoramas, and a deeply rooted mountain culture that infuses every step of the journey. The well-paced trails alternate between moments of contemplation and physical challenges, with the option to reach summits or explore alternative routes near the huts, offering an authentic adventure in a pristine natural setting. A true gem for mountain enthusiasts.

Our guides

Reservation

Customize this trip
Departure Return Price including VAT Departure status*  
From 18 July 2026 to 25 July 2026 1890 € Confirmed from 4 participants on Book / Enquire Book / Enquire
From 08 August 2026 to 15 August 2026 1890 € Confirmed from 4 participants on Book / Enquire Book / Enquire
*The date of departure is subject to change at any time (as specified in chapter 6.1 of our general terms and condition of sale).

Embark on an extraordinary journey, creating lasting memories as you adventure off the beaten path, with respect for the environment and local communities. Envision your next adventure with your family or friends. Let us help you shape your own experience !

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Quynh L. Satisfied of the trip Guided - Dolomites High Route
Traveler
3 trips with Mont Blanc Experience
Satisfied of the trip Guided - Dolomites High Route
We have has a wonderful time! The Dolomites are fantastic, and different every day. The trails, the mountains are so beautiful.
The level of difficulty is accurate for >50 year old trekkers.
Younger hikers should look for other itineraries of self guided tours to extend the challenges.

To check out as well...

Itinerary

Hiking : a relatively accessible activity, hiking offers the opportunity to explore a country or a region up close, on foot, and to meet and mingle with the locals. On a traverse or loop, whatever your skill level, embark on one of our through-hikes to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the great outdoors.

Level 4: An average of 6 hours of hiking per day on well-marked trails or off trail, and/or 700 to 1000 meters of vertical gain, and/or distances of 15 to 18 kilometers.

Duration : 8 days
Luggage transfers : Your personal belongings for a maximum of 2 days
Lodging : Mountain Hut, Hotel
Guiding : French, english speaking, mountain leader (UIMLA certified)
Group : From 4 to 12 participants. The departure will be confirmed from 4 participants (The date of departure is subject to change at any time, as specified in chapter 6.1 of our general terms and condition of sale).

Day by day

Day 1

Welcome in the Dolomites !

Lodging : hotel. Meals not included.
Arrival in Bressanone / Brixen, a very typical and historical town in the Dolomites. It's a perfect place to spend your first night. Settle into your hotel, and relax before embarking on what will be a truly amazing through-hike.
Day 2

From Bressanone to the Tre Cime

Distance : 12.5 km (8 mi) - Ascent : 950 m (3117 ft). Descent : 100 m (328 ft). 4 hrs of hiking.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Meet at 09:00 am at your hotel with the guide. Transfer to Val Campo di Dentro, start of your hike. An easy and pleasant walk will lead you to Dreischusterhütte Hut where you really enter the heart of the Dolomites. Then hike to the legendary Tre Cime di Lavaredo, beneath Torre di Toblin, well known for its via ferrata, a relic from the First World War. You reach Locatelli Hut, built in 1883 (renovated since) and one of the oldest huts in the Dolomites. Leave your backpack and head out for a stroll to explore the Tre Cime di Lavaredo or Torre di Toblin close up.

Please note: In the afternoon, from Locatelli Hut, you have the option of climbing a via ferrata (Paterno or Torre di Toblin) with an Italian Mountain Guide (you need to book and pay in advance). Feel free to ask us!

Day 3

From Locatelli hut to Pratopiazza hut

Distance : 16 km (10 mi) - Ascent : 800 m (2625 ft). Descent : 1200 m (3937 ft). 6 hrs of hiking.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Enjoy your last views of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo's north faces as you leave Locatelli Hut. Head west on an easy trail down through the wild Val Ribon. From the bottom of the valley, hike uphill to Strudelkopfsattel Pass (2,200 m / 7,218 ft), beneath Monte Specie, and into Pratopiazza Valley, with its typical Dolomite pastures.
Day 4

From Pratopiazza hut to Biella hut

Distance : 14 km (9 mi) - Ascent : 1000 m (3280 ft). Descent : 800 m (2625 ft). 6 hrs of hiking.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
We leave the refuge and cross a pleasant area of alpine meadows and wooded sections. Gradually, the atmosphere changes, and the terrain becomes more alpine as we move beneath the Croda Rossa needle (3146 m / 10,321 ft). To the left, the imposing limestone towers shape a contrasting and powerful landscape. We descend into a new valley via the Gaiselleite pass, an exposed section but without technical difficulty (2260 m / 7,414 ft). We pass by Casa Cavallo, heading towards the final pass of the day, the Sora Forno Pass, at the foot of which lies the Biella refuge (2327 m / 7,634 ft), where we will spend the night, at the foot of Croda del Becco (2810 m / 9,219 ft).
Day 5

From the Biella Hut to the Fanes nature park

Distance : 11 km (7 mi) - Ascent : 850 m (2789 ft). Descent : 500 m (1640 ft). 5 hrs of hiking.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
We head south towards the serene Fosses Lake, then continue into the stunning valley of Lake Piccolo, nestled at the heart of the Fanes Nature Park. The landscape here is a tapestry of lush alpine meadows, vibrantly colored by a myriad of wildflowers. We descend into the shadowy Scuro valley, before climbing again toward Lake Fodara and its eponymous refuge. As the terrain opens up, we ascend through the Fanes valley along the Río San Vigilio, making our way to the Fanes or Lavarella refuges (or, in exceptional cases, the Pederu refuge), where we'll spend the night amidst this breathtaking mountain setting.
Day 6

From Fanes to Gardenacia hut

Distance : 14.5km (9 mi) - Ascent : 1200 m (3937 ft). Descent : 1200 m (3937 ft). 7 hrs of hiking.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Heading east, you ascend a small valley and then a steep section to reach the foot of the Pizza de Lavarella needle (3055 m / 10,022 ft) via the Forcella Medesc pass. The alpine atmosphere is unmistakable, with a mineral landscape at the base of towering cliffs. You then descend to the village of La Villa Stern, a charming spot, renowned for its beauty (1468 m / 4,816 ft). From the village, you make your way to the Gardenacia hut (2050 m / 6,725 ft), climbing the east slopes, rich in larch trees.
Day 7

From Gardenacia hut to Bressanone

Distance : 15 km (9.5 mi) - Ascent : 650 m (2132 ft). Descent : 1000 m (3280 ft). 5,5 hrs of hiking.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, lunch. Meals not included : dinner.
From the hut, a short hike leads to Gardenacia Pass (2,543 m / 8,343 ft). The trail then takes you on a pleasant traverse to the Puez Hut, with great views of the Marmolada and other peaks in the area. From the hut, the trail winds down steep terrain into San Silvestro Valley, where you will stroll through peaceful alpine pastures until reaching San Silvestro church and the village of Wolkenstein. Your trek ends here. Transfer back to Bressanone to enjoy your last night.
Day 8

Arrivederci Dolomiti !

Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.
After breakfast, you'll say good-bye to your guide. Take time to explore Bressanone before heading off.

If you wish to arrive earlier or extend your stay, it's essential to book your accommodation in advance. We can arrange one or more extra nights at one of our partner hotels. Just ask!

The active times are given as an indication and may vary depending on several elements (eg. weather conditions, terrain, etc.). Transfer times may also vary depending on road and traffic conditions. If necessary (eg: weather conditions, decision of local authorities, etc.), we may also be required to adapt the program for the smooth running of your trip and in the interest of the participants.

Pricing

Pricing

The price includes / does not include

The price includes:

  • French trekking leader - english speaking (UIMLA certified) from day 2 to day 7 and from 5 to 12 participants.
  • Accommodations as described (mix of dormitory, shared room and private room).
  • Meals : 7 breakfasts, 5 dinners (dinner not included in Bressanone), 6 pack-lunches,
  • Luggage transfer (not available on day 2, day 5 and 7),
  • Energetic snacks for the week,
  • A welcome drink,
  • Cable-cars and transfers as described on the itinerary and in the "organization" tab.
  • In case of emergency, a 24/7 telephone service in English.

The price does not include:

  • Transportation to and from Bressanone.
  • Any single room (requested or for a odd number of people).
  • Dinner in Bressanone the first and last day.
  • Shower in the huts charging fees.
  • Insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, lost/stolen baggage, or assistance.
  • For reservations made less than 15 days before the start, all additional fees for priority processing.
  • Anything that is not specified in the "The prices includes" list.

Other expenses:

  • Tickets to any visit.
  • Drinks and tips.

During your trip

Our guides

Aurélien S. Aurélien S.

The guides shown here are part of our regular team. It is possible that your trip will be accompanied by others.

Our team

This trip is guided by a French - English speaking - UIMLA certified mountain leader from 5 to 12 participants. Specialists of the Dolomites, he will guide you on "his" trails through this region. Your guide will speak English...but don't be afraid if they speak as a French ;-)

Transfers

All these transfers are included in the tour such as :

  • Day 2 : private transfer from Bressanone to the Val Fiscalina (start of the hike).
  • Day 8 : private transfer from Wolkenstein (end of the hike) to Bressanone.
We draw your attention to the fact that wearing a seat belt is compulsory at the front and rear in all vehicles you use during the trip, when they are equipped with one, regardless of the regulations in effect in the country visited. By booking an Mont Blanc Experience trip, you agree to respect this obligation. Mont Blanc Experience cannot be held liable in the event of bodily injury(s) and/or material damage(s) if it turns out that this provision was not respected by you.

Lodging

On day 1 and day 7, you'll stay in a simple but comfortable hotel in Bressanone, in a shared twin beds basis, with private bathroom.

In order to provide you with a complete immersion in the natural surroundings, your nights will be spent in mountain huts (from day 2 to day 6). These huts, while simple and authentic, offer a warm and friendly atmosphere. You will stay in shared dormitories, where the spirit of conviviality is at the heart of the experience. Although the comfort may be simpler than in a hotel, each hut has been carefully selected for its location, charm, and the quality of its hospitality. The restrooms are usually located outside the dormitories.

Depending on availability and the season, it is possible that you will share the dormitory with other travelers (other than those in your group). Please do not be surprised by this setup.

The size of the dormitories may vary from one hut to another, and depending on the hut keeper's management, bed assignments are often made the morning of your arrival :

  • Day 2 : dormitory from 8 to 20 beds.
  • Day 3 : dormitory with approximately 20 beds.
  • Day 4 : dormitory from 4 to 10 beds (no shower).
  • Day 5 : dormitory from 5 to 10 beds.
  • Day 6 : shared room from 2 to 4 beds.

The showers at the Gardenacia hut (day 6) are hot and require a fee (indicative price: €3), while the showers at the Locatelli hut (Day 2) are cold and also require a fee (indicative price: between €5 and €8).
The paid showers are at your own expense.

Note: odd number of people are considered with a triple room. Single room always depends on availability and is with a supplement.
Single room is always "on request".

If you wish to arrive earlier or extend your stay, it's essential to book your accommodation in advance. We can arrange one or more extra nights at one of our partner hotels. Just ask!

Meals

Our goal is to ensure that you eat well-balanced meals suited for the effort required each day, and to lighten your pack load as much as possible.

Dinners :
- in the hotels, dinner typically consists of a fixed three-course menu, including a first plate, a second plate, and dessert. The first and last dinner in Bressanone is not included to give you all options in town and a dinner on your own.
- in mountain huts and mountain inns, meals are convivial moments when you share the table with other hikers. These meals are a real highlight of the day, providing an opportunity to savor home-cooked meals while sharing with people from all over the world. Meals generally consist of a soup starter, pasta entry followed by a meat-based main course with carbohydrates (gnocchies, polenta, etc.), then dessert. If you wish, you can add a beer or glass of wine to your meal for an additional charge.

Breakfast :
- in the hotels, you'll enjoy a generous and diverse buffet featuring pastries, fresh bread, homemade jams, fruits, and cereals. For those who prefer savory options, there's also a selection of breads, cheeses, ham, and eggs.
- in mountain inns or huts, breakfasts are often simple: bread, butter, jam, coffee, tea and orange juice. If you need extra energy for your day's hiking, remember to pack cereal bars, chocolate or other snacks.

Lunches:
Pack-lunches either prepared by your guide or the accommodation.
The picnic has an important place in a day of hiking. Healthy and balanced, it allows you to regain your strength before continuing the day's hike. The tasting of local products is an opening on the traditions and the regional culture, and then it is above all a moment of convivial exchange.
During our trekking trips, our guides are careful to ensure that these shared meals are special moments, and try to diversify the menus as much as possible while taking into account the constraints related to transport and food conservation in the specific conditions of the trip.

We commit ourselves to :
* Offer a share of regional products, chosen, when possible, from local producers to support short circuits.
* Favour quality products and integrate a part of organic food.
* Reduce packaging, especially plastic, and recycle the remaining ones.

If you have strict dietary constraints (gluten free, veggie,etc.) we invite you to communicate them to us before departure, in your personal space. Remind your guide of this during the first briefing: he will be in charge of the picnics and will be your contact with the accommodation providers.

Drinks: beverages (excluding water) are not included. Please pay for all drinks consumed on site before your departure, to avoid any additional charges after your stay.

Luggage transfer

You will only carry what you need for the day's hike.
Your bags are transported to your accommodations by vehicle, and you will have access to them every night (except on day 2 in Locatelli, on day 5 in Biella hut and on day 7 in Gardenaccia were this service is not available as these huts are not reachable by car).

Itineraries

Our elevation gains are calculated based on altitude differences provided on maps, not by GPS, which, for technical reasons (GPS altitude inaccuracies + statistical dispersion), often give overestimated elevation gains, sometimes by up to 20%.

Group composition

You'll be sharing your stay with English-speaking people of many different nationalities: British, American, Australian and many more. Get ready for a truly multicultural experience!

What you need to know

Be prepared for the weather:
The weather in mountains can change very quickly. The weather forecast is quite accurate for the next 3 upcoming days, but not that much further. Thunderstorms are common in the afternoon when the weather is hot, they are very located and show up very quickly. Wake up earlier in the morning when the weather forecast announces it, you will have crossed the high pass before it starts.

Considering the Environment:
While trekking you have to be careful not to destroy the environment you are enjoying so much. It is not only for your enjoyment, but people and wildlife also rely on this environment.
 
Here are some simple tips:

  • Pick up any litter along the trail.
  • Burn all your toilet paper and bury your faeces, make sure you go at least 50m away from any water source.
  • Drink tap water instead of mineral water as plastic bottles are an unnecessary waste.
  • Stick to the trails to prevent erosion and damage to fragile alpine flora.
  • Ensure all rubbish is packed and bring them back down to the villages.

Insurance :
All tour participants should obtain their own personal insurance which covers medical and emergency evacuation at a minimum. You will of course also want cover for loss or damage to personal effects, flight or trip cancellation etc. Please ask us for advice.

Final tips!

  • To ensure that you have the best time possible, please respect local traditions, customs, values and the environment.
  • Respect privacy when taking pictures.
  • Your attempts at speaking some French or Italian will open hearts and break the ice!
  • Protect the natural environment, see above.

Currencies

France and Italy are part of the Euro zone. You may find ATMs easily in the main cities and towns.
Better to have cash in the most remote areas to purchase extras (ex.: for drinks). Huts do not always accept credit cards.

Access

Access

This trip starts and ends in Bressanone (also called Brixen), located in the Adige valley, close to Bolzano. The nearest airport for this trip is Innsbrück airport (about 1,5 hrs driving), and it's easy to find either a shared bus ride or a private taxi with Clever Transfer.

You can also have two other international airports :
- Verona airport : approximately 2h bus ride  with Clever Transfer or train with the railway Trenitalia (about 2,5 hrs and a connection in Trento).
- Venezia Mestre airport : approximately 4 hrs bus ride  with Clever Transfer or train with the railway Trenitalia (about 3,5 hrs and two connection : one in Verona and Bolzano).

We can also provide private airport transfer from any of these international airports Innsbruck (AT), Verone (IT) or Venezia (IT). Feel free to ask !

Required before leaving

Health

Some tips for staying healthy:
Tap water is mostly good for drinking all other the Alps. Unless notified as not, you can consider it as drinkable. Even if they are recyclable we request you consider the waste impact of your bottles.
Your hands are perhaps your biggest enemy in terms of your health as they get very dirty during the day. Wash your hands before every meal or snack. People often think they get sick from the food, but it's far more likely they forgot to wash their hands!

During the trek, don't try to overpass your strength and walk too high, too quickly! Keep a regular pace and take time to enjoy the view while walking.
Listen to your guide and take their advice as they are trained to look after your safety.

If you have any special dietary requirements, please advise us when booking your trek so that we can cater for you. Note: sometimes not all dietary requirements are able to be met, but please inform us and we will certainly do our best! 

Recommended vaccinations

Please check to make sure that all your vaccinations are current: DPT, whooping cough, tuberculosis, typhoid fever, hepatitis A and B.

Dentist and general physician

We recommend a checkup with both before leaving on your trip.

Getting ready

Physical fitness level 4

To take full advantage of your trip, make sure that you stay in good shape by walking or hiking at least once per week (around 15km to 18km) on a trail with considerable vertical gain (350m/hr) or by participating in a moderately intense athletic activity to build endurance.

Your first aid kit

For the medication and pain relievers listed below, we recommend that you check with your doctor beforehand, adding what you need based on personal requirements and the specificities of your trip.

  • An analgesic.
  • An anti-inflammatory (pills or gels).
  • An anti-diarrheal tablets
  • A disinfectant, band aids (several sizes), mole skin, sterile compresses, medical tape, Steri-Strips,

Gear list

What you need to bring:

We recommend that your backpack doesn't exceed 10 to 15% of your weight. Take only the essentials.

Essentials :

  • Hiking backpack. A chest strap and waist strap are essential to help to distribute the weight. The size 30 L to 45 L, will depend on whether you have booked a luggage transfer or not.
  • Comfortable and worn in trekking boots.
  • Warm hat.
  • Cap.
  • Sun glasses.
  • Good quality Merino Wool walking socks.
  • Base layer tops - Merino Wool is the best choice.
  • Warm mid-layer tops.
  • A water and windproof layer (jacket and pants) eg. Gore-Tex.
  • 1x Walking trousers.
  • Light gloves.
  • Shorts.
  • Buff or Snood.
  • A natural or synthetic down jacket.
  • Casual clothes & footwear for evenings. One set is enough as you will not wear them for a long time.
  • Nightwear and underwear.
  • Sleeping bag liner - either silk, cotton or fleece.
  • Sandals or flip flops. 

Essential Accessories :

  • Personal toiletries: shampoo, soap, shavers, moisturizer, travel towel (if you're staying in Mountains Huts), etc.
  • Toilet roll/tissues.
  • Ziplock bags are handy for convenient leak-proof storage.
  • Sun block and lip balm.
  • Electrical socket adapter.
  • Energy bars/snacks.
  • Personal first aid kit + any personal medications you need to take.
  • Phone, Camera, batteries and charger.
  • Airtight and waterproof ‘dry bags' are great for keeping your clothes dry and storing your dirty laundry separate from clean clothes!
  • Head torch and batteries (spare batteries too).
  • Walking poles are highly recommended on Alps paths.
  • Cash & Cards (Euros and Swiss Francs).
  • Pocket knives or cutlery can be useful for picnics.
  • WATER - please be able to carry 2 litres of water.

For the luggage transfer:
- Duffle bag (soft) and not exceeding 15 kg to carry your extra stuff.

Useful extras:

  • Binoculars.
  • Book to read or Kindle.
  • Notebook and pen.
  • Ear plugs.

Note: All of these items can be purchased there. Please ask us if you'd like some advice about where to go to get any gear.

What to take with you in your day pack:
Please carry the following in your day pack, as a minimum:

  • 2 litres of water.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, lip balm.
  • Warm fleece or thermal layer and gloves.
  • Water proof layer.
  • Lunch
  • Head torch.
  • Hand sanitiser/soap and toilet paper.
  • Your camera.
  • Any money you want for snacks/drinks along the trail.
  • Important - take any personal medications you require during the day - you will not see your kit bag until evening.

What about gear I want to leave before the trek?
Before departure for your trek you might pack your ‘town clothes' or anything you don't want on trek with you and ask your hotel (if you come back to the same hotel). If you want to do this, then consider bringing or buying a simple bag here for this purpose. We can also help you organize the storage of a larger suitcase, Please ask us for advice.

First aid kit:
It is recommended that you bring a small personal medical kit including your preferred painkillers, throat lozenges, plasters, strapping tape for blisters, etc. If you are taking regular medication you MUST bring those medicines with you PLUS an extra supply in case one pack is lost. If you have any allergies and/or take any medications, you MUST advise us when booking your trek !

Safety

The Mont Blanc Experience promise

No region in the world is 100% safe and without danger.

Mont Blanc Experience keeps you informed and is fully transparent when it comes to the potential risks. We gather security risk information from multiple sources: in-house research, monitoring specialized websites, meetings with the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, "safety and security" trips in the field, constant contact with our regional specialists, local teams on the ground, and France's travel agency federation.

Nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind that we cannot make any decisions for you.

If there is a clear and elevated risk, we reserve the right to:

— Reinforce our guide team (for guided trips).
— Modify the itinerary for our tours.
— Place a tour or destination on hiatus for an extended period of time when we consider the level of risk to be too high.

Your safety and your enjoyment are our priority.