dolomites-the-best-hike-of-the-dolomites

Guided groups

Hiking

lvl. 3
Comfort
Day-hikes
Réf : E3Z5
7 days from 2695 € Book / Enquire

Our trip

  • Discover the best of the Dolomites while staying in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Cortina d'Ampezzo.

  • Hike the most iconic trails around Tre Cime, Tofana di Rozes range, Cinque Torri, and more.

  • Personalized welcome and private transfer from Venice for a smooth and seamless journey.

  • Extend your experience with a stay in Venice, before or after your Dolomites adventure.

In the European Alps, the Dolomites form a sub range that stands apart from the rest, where massive vertical rock walls and spires rise high above lush green alpine meadows and pastures. This trip offers you the chance to explore every aspect of these truly unique mountains. With your hotel in the world-renowned Cortina d'Ampezzo ski resort as a base camp, each day's hike explores the most famous mountain groups in the area, including Tre Cime, Cinque Torri, and Tofane. In the evenings, enjoy the summer entertainment and activities program of a small mountain village as well as the creature comforts your hotel has to offer. Make sure you take full advantage of every aspect of this incredible mountain setting.

Reservation

Customize this trip
Departure Return Price including VAT Departure status*  
From 21 June 2026 to 27 June 2026 2695 € Confirmed from 4 participants on Book / Enquire Book / Enquire
From 19 July 2026 to 25 July 2026 2695 € Confirmed from 4 participants on Book / Enquire Book / Enquire
From 09 August 2026 to 15 August 2026 2695 € Confirmed from 4 participants on Book / Enquire Book / Enquire
From 06 September 2026 to 12 September 2026 2695 € 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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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 3: An average of 4 to 5 hours of hiking per day on well-marked trails and/or 600 to 800 meters of vertical gain, and/or distances up to 15 kilometers. Duration : 7 days
Luggage transfers : Just a light day bag on your back
Lodging : Hotel
Guiding : French, english speaking, mountain leader (UIMLA certified)
Group : From 4 to 8 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

Arrival in Venice, route to the Dolomites

Lodging : hotel. Included meals : dinner. Meals not included : breakfast, lunch. Transfer : around 2 hours in private transfer.
Meeting with your guide at 3:00 pm at Venice Marco Polo airport. The journey from Venice to Cortina d'Ampezzo takes you through the magnificent landscapes of the Dolomites. After leaving Venice and crossing the Venetian plain, we gradually ascend into the mountains, passing through panoramic mountain passes. Our journey ends at Cortina d'Ampezzo, a renowned ski resort nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, offering spectacular views and a charming alpine atmosphere.
Day 2

Lagazuoi Panorama

Distance : 15 km (9.5 mi) - Ascent : 700 m (2,296 ft). Descent : 1100 m (3,609 ft). 4,5 hrs of hiking.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Transfer to Falzarego Pass, one of the most popular trailheads in the Dolomites. At the foot of the famed Lagazuoi, the day's first climb leads to Lagazuoi Pass (2,573m/8,441ft). Continue heading uphill to the summit, where we will stumble upon the ruins of several old military installations. As we start our descent, hike through a wide rocky valley and beneath steep cliffs equipped for via ferrata climbing. The descent then continues to Lake Lagazuoi and the the Scotini Hut, a popular final destination for Italian families on a day hike. From there, the trail descends leisurely to Valparola, where we will catch the bus back to our hotel.
Day 3

Croda da Lago range

Distance : 12 km (7.5 mi) - Ascent : 800 m (2,625 ft). Descent : 800 m (2,625 ft) . 5 hrs of hiking.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
The short transfer takes us to Giau Pass, where the day's hike starts by with a climb through the forest to Formin valley. Little by little the forest thins as we enter the rocky, mineral landscape at higher elevation. Walk through the boulder filed and along the base of beautiful Croda de Lago. When we cross Formin pass (2,462 m / 8,077 ft), the southern Dolomites appear in all their majesty, with Civetta's legendary north face now in our sights. A short descent leads to Ambrizolla pass (2,277 m / 7,470 ft). From there, head back along the other side of Croda da Lago and, during the descent, back through the forest just after the lake. Continue to Giau pass road. Transfer back to our hotel.
Day 4

Hiking around Tre Cime and Mt Paterno

Distance : 10 km (6.5 mi) - Ascent : 600 m (1,968 ft). Descent : 600 m (1,968 ft). 5 hrs of hiking.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Transfer to the Auronzo Hut (2,320 m / 7,611 ft). The day starts on easy terrain to the foot of Tre Cime's south face. Walk along the base until you reach Laveredo Lake. From there, circumnavigate Mt. Paterno via Pian del Cengia (Cengia flats) and Cengia Pass. The trail winds back around to the Locatelli Hut, where great views of Tre Cime's north face will simply leave you in awe. For the rest of the afternoon, hike along the foot of several legendary north faces where you will likely see climbers scaling these towering rock walls. Hike over Medo Pass back to the Auronzo Hut. At the end of day, transfer from the Tre Cime to our hotel.
Day 5

Tofana di Rozes range

Distance : 12 km (7,4 mi) - Ascent : 1000 m (3,280 ft). Descent : 1000 m (3,280 ft). 5 hrs of hiking.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Start of today's hike around Tofana di Rozes, Cortina's iconic mountain.
We begin with a short climb through the forest, reaching the base of the majestic south face of Tofana di Rozes, famous for its climbing routes. From there, we ascend to the Giussani Refuge, nestled in the heart of the two Tofanes. Next, we head towards Punta Anna, which offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding valley. To finish this adventure, we descend to the Pomedes Refuge, then continue down to the Dibona Refuge and back to Cortina.
Day 6

Hike around Averau and the Cinque Torri

Distance : 14 km (9 mi) - Ascent : 550 m (1,805 ft). Descent : 800 m (2,625 ft). 4,5 hrs of hiking.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.

This is the last time we'll take the early morning shuttle along the now familiar road to Falzarego pass where we started our trip. Today, the trailhead starts on the opposite side of the valley facing the Lagazuoi and Tofane, within a smaller group of peaks that has several surprises in store for us. The trail quickly leads out of the alpine meadows and small ski area towards the higher lunar terrain far above tree line. Once at Averau's base, we continue hiking around its rocky summit spire to Nuvolau pass. While climbing to the top of Nuvolau Peak is optional, we highly recommend it, since the small hut located at the summit is typical of the Dolomites and offers amazing views in every direction. When back at Nuvolau pass, hike to the legendary Cinque Torri, well known for their great climbing and where several Dolomites climbers got their start. The area also boasts a rich history that we recommend taking the time to learn about before the trip officially comes to an end at Dames lake. Last transfer back to the hotel.

Day 7

End of the trip in Venice airport

Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner. Transfer : 3 hours in private transfer.
Enjoy your last breakfast before checking out. Transfer back to Venice Marco Polo airport.

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 in Cortina, Venice or elsewhere 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

Price includes :
  • French, english speaking trekking leader (UIMLA certified) from day 1 to day 7 and from 4 to 8 participants.
  • Accommodations as described in double/twin rooms, in a 3-star hotel in Cortina d'Ampezzo.
  • Meals: 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners.
  • Transfers as described on the itinerary and in the "Details" tab.
  • Energetic snacks for the week.
  • A welcome drink.
  • In case of emergency, a 24/7 telephone service in English.

Price does not include :

  • Any single room (requested or for a odd number of people).
  • Drinks, tips and personal expenses.
  • Dinner on day 4 at Cortina d'Ampezzo.
  • Insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, lost/stolen baggage, or assistance.
  • Anything that is not specified in the "included in the price" list.

Other expenses :

  • Any unplanned visits, tours, or transfers.

During your trip

Our team

This trip is guided by a French - English speaking - UIMLA certified mountain leader from 4 to 8 participants. Specialists of the Mont Blanc, he will guide you on "their" trails through this region. Your guide will speak English...but don't be afraid if they speak as a French ;-)

Transfers

Throughout the trip, your guide will have a minibus for transfers. This solution provides great flexibility in travel. The guide will be able to easily swap days around depending on the weather.

  • Day 1 : transfer from Venice Marco Polo airport to Cortina d'Ampezzo.
  • Day 2 : transfer from Cortina d'Ampezzo to Falzarego pass (one way); transfer from Valparola to passo Falzarego (one way).
  • Day 3 : transfer from Cortina d'Ampezzo to Rucurtu bridge (round-trip).
  • Day 4 : transfer from Cortina d'Ampezzo to rifugio Auronzo (round-trip).
  • Day 5 : transfer from Cortina d'Ampezzo to Pocol/Dibona hut (round-trip), optional.
  • Day 6 : transfer from Cortina d'Ampezzo to passo Falzarego (round-trip).
  • Day 7 : transfer from Cortina d'Ampezzo to Venice Marco Polo airport.
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

The 3* Serena hotel has been welcoming travelers with warm friendliness for over 100 years!
Ideally located just a stone's throw from the center of Cortina, most of the hotel's renovated rooms offer a magnificent view of the surrounding mountains.

Equipped with every comfort, the hotel also offers a restaurant with a large dining room offers traditional local and Italian menus.

You can find additional information directly on the hosting site of the hotel.

In case this accommodation is not available we work with a comparable partner in Cortina or Pocol.

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 (hot meals, very filling) and breakfasts are prepared by the hotel.

  • Dinner typically consists of a fixed three-course menu, including a starter, main course, and dessert.
  • For breakfast, 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.
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 considering 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 any special dietary requirements, such as a vegetarian diet, let us know when you register.
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

No baggage transfer required for this trip as this is a "center-based" program. Carry what you need in a lightweight pack on each day's hike.

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

The trip begins and ends at Venice Marco Polo Airport. Your guide will be waiting for you at 3:00 PM. If you plan to visit Venice before the departure, here is some information on how to reach Marco Polo Airport from the city center (Piazzale Roma):

By bus:
The ATVO bus or the ACTV bus (line 5) runs regularly between Piazzale Roma (the main bus terminal in Venice) and Marco Polo Airport. The journey takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Price: Around 8-10 € per person for a one-way ticket.
Frequency: Regular departures, about every 20-30 minutes.

By taxi:
You can take a taxi from Piazzale Roma or other taxi-accessible points in the city center. The journey takes around 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Price: around 40-50 €, depending on the time and traffic.

By waterbus (Alilaguna):
There is a water shuttle service called Alilaguna, which connects Venice's main water terminals (San Zaccaria or Fondamente Nove) to Marco Polo Airport. The trip is longer, around 1 hour, but it's a scenic option if you want to enjoy the views.
Price: around 15 € per person for a one-way ticket.


In case you would like to reach Cortina d'Ampezzo on your own:

  • With the Cortina Express buses, taking approximately 2h20. Departures are twice daily, usually in the afternoon. We strongly recommend checking their website for exact timetables and booking your tickets in advance to secure your seat.
  • With ATVO buses: in the same way as with the Cortina Express company, we recommend booking your tickets in advance and collecting them by the evening before at the latest. Two departures per day (usually in the morning).

It depends on your schedule, budget, and preferences in terms of comfort and speed! If you have any further questions, 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 3

To take full advantage of your trip, make sure that you stay in good shape by walking or hiking least once per week (around 15km) on a trail with considerable vertical gain (250m/hr) or by participating in a moderately intense athletic activity for 1 to 1.5hrs.

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 we supply for your trek:
We provide 1 set for every 4 participants, which includes detailed hiking maps of the region, and a roadbook describing your itinerary and trip (a lot of tips and some alternative routes are included).

You will have access to our 24/24 7/7 support hotline to assist you during your trip.
Each participant will have access on his phone to our "Roadbook" app which includes an itinerary descriptions as well GPS guidance.

What you need to bring:
If you don't have the luggage transfer option, pack light, remember that you will have to carry all your stuff during the whole trip. 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 20 L to 30 L.
  • Comfortable and worn in hiking 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.
  • Sandals or flip flops.

Essential accessories:

  • Personal toiletries: shampoo, soap, shavers, moisturizer, etc.
  • 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.

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 liters of water.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, lip balm.
  • Warm fleece or thermal layer and gloves.
  • Water proof layer.
  • Lunch
  • Head torch.
  • Hand sanitizer/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.

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.