DOLOMITES HIKING TRAILS: The Most Inspiring Hikes In The Dolomites
December 4, 2019
Contents – Open To Read
THE BEST HIKES IN THE DOLOMITES
Brought To You By My Adventurers Bloggers Colleagues
I have a confession to make: I’m Italian and not only I’ve never visited the Dolomites but I have no hiking experience under my belt. Pretty surprising, right? After all the Dolomites are a well-known mountain range, famous for its awesome trekking and hiking paths, breathtaking views and wilderness in its purest state.
Unfortunately, I can’t hike (long story, don’t ask! ? so I can only live these awesome hikes, vicariously, through the experiences of my fellow colleagues who kindly provided me with some of the best hikes in the Dolomites.
I hope you’ll enjoy this fabulous list, full of details and wonders as much as I liked it, and if you have any questions or further info to ask, don’t hesitate to comment, I’ll pass the question to the relevant person. There are some serious hikers on this list so you’re in good hands!
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DOLOMITES HIKING: SORAPIS LAKE
The hike to Lago di Sorapis is, hands down, one of the most beautiful treks you can experience in the famous Italian Dolomites.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS KIHE:
You will go up and down through a lush forest, with everchanging views of the valleys around it, and you can even spot the landmark of the region, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, from the hiking trail (more on the Tre Cime di Lavaredo in this article, keep reading).
Not only it will lead you to a breathtaking view where you’re greeted by a turquoise lake guarded by a gorgeous rocky peak, but the whole trail to reach your destination is a textbook hike.
There’s a meadow next to the lake, ideal for a picnic, and a mountain hut almost next to the lake where you can have a bite and a drink. Still, take enough water with you. And a camera! You won’t want to miss the myriad of photo-opportunities, especially at the lake!
LOCATION – HOW TO GET THERE:
The easiest way to tackle this path, considered one of the best and most beautiful Dolomites hiking trails, is to base yourself in Cortina d’Ampezzo or around Misurina lake. From there you can take a public bus or drive to Passo Tre Croci, where the path starts.
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY:
The return hike is about 12 km with a bit over 400 meters of altitude change. It should take you about 3-4 hours, but I’d recommend planning a day trip. The whole area is incredibly beautiful and peaceful, so you’ll clearly want to spend as many hours in there as possible!
The Lago di Sorapis hiking can be considered one of the Dolomites easy hiking trails, suitable for basically everyone, providing that they are fit enough and in good health.
By Coni– Experiencing the Globe
DOLOMITES HIKING: Kröndlhorn, Kitzbüheler Alpen
Taking a hike in the Kröndlhorn is almost guaranteed to leave you feeling accomplished, clam, and fatigued for days.
The enormous Kröndlhorn is a 2444 metre mountain in the Kitzbüheler Alpen in Tirol and one of the highest in the region. It has become popular with those looking for a challenge, with a summit across the borders of Tirol to Salzburger Land.
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY:
The trail is a total of 14km round-trip allowing you to fully enjoy the alpine world during this strenuous, but short trek.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS HIKE:
The numerous peaks of the Kitzbüheler Alpen all have their own unique features:
The Kelchsau and Windautal mountains are gentle and grassy, while the Wilder kaiser mountains are scabbed trails with high peaks, reminding me a lot of Kilimanjaro.
Kitzbüheler Alpen there are many mountain inns, private huts and alpine club huts which offer a wide range of accommodation.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS DOLOMITES HIKE:
A highlight of the trek is the view of Lake Reinkarsee, which you’ll come across at an elevation of about 2,194m. Once at the summit, a little chapel can be found. This trek offers seclusion from everyday life with breathtaking panoramas.
By – A Ray Of Light.com
DOLOMITES ITALY HIKING IN “VALLE DEI LAGHI” – TRENTINO
Valle Dei Laghi is considered one of Trentino’s off the beaten path gems, located in the North-East part of Italy, isperfect if you want to experience some easy dolomites hiking which won’t be taxing for your body & joints.
The name of the valley comes from the numerous lakes found here, including the famous Lake Garda, bordering at the South. This lake actually gives a unique current to the valley which helps the production of Vino Santo by drying the Nosiola grapes during the winter.
One of the most beautiful activities that you can do in Valle dei Laghi is hiking among the vineyards. This is what makes this particular hike in the Dolomites so unique!
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS HIKE:
Walking along the trails through the vineyards is a rather unusual and almost unique experience, as you can not only admire the peaks of the mountains rising from afar but also stop at locally-owned “Aziendas Agricolae” to taste some of the local wine.
The Nosiola grapes are unique to Valle dei Laghi and produce the fragrant and refreshing wine with the same name, but also the Vino Santo, which is pressed only during the Holy Week.
The trails available in Valle Dei Laghi are perfect alternatives to themore difficult hikes in the Dolomites and are great for people who want to enjoy time in nature but are not that physical prepared.
An enchanting part of Valle Dei Laghi: Photo Credit: Stefania Berlanda Instagram Account
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY:
Being a valley, there are no particular challenging or difficult paths to climb, the steepest you will find are some rather small hills. For this reason, The Valle Dei Laghi is also featured amongst the dolomites easy hikes, especially for beginners who want to enjoy a relaxing day outdoors surrounded by nature and looking for a special experience.
One trek that I highly recommend is between the villages of Lasino and Pergolese, which are easy accessible by local buses.
By Joanna – The World In My Pocket
DOLOMITES HIKING: TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO CIRCUIT DAY HIKE
A visit to the Italian Dolomites will not be complete without experiencing the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Circuit Day Hike, the symbol of the Unesco World Heritage site in the Dolomites.
It’s not a difficult hike, children can complete the trek easily and therefore the Tre Cime can be an enjoyable addition to a family holiday in Italy.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS HIKE:
The circuit will give you amazing views of the jagged limestone peaks that have given the Tre Cime its name. Its breath-taking scenery is framed by rocky, mountainous peaks and lush green valleys.
The trail offers splendid photo opportunities – twisting massive monoliths, high alpine meadows, and a variety of colorful wildflowers. You’ll come across amazing Rifugios (mountain huts/refuges) for a much-needed rest and relaxing by sipping a glass of good wine (or more than one).
Simply stunning. Photo Credit – Via Instagram:Michael Ruhdorfer
This hike in the beautiful Italian Dolomites mountains begins at the Rifugio Auronzo car park but you can commence your trek in either direction. However, you will get better views if you walk the circuit in a counter-clockwise direction with the Tre Cime di Lavaredo on your left side.
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY OF THE HIKE AND USEFUL INFO:
Although, this is considered one of the Dolomites’ easy hikes, pay close attention to the signs to make sure you are on the right path. Always keep in mind that the Tre Cime monoliths should be on your left side.
The circuit covers 10.3km and the ascent/descent has been measured at 400m. There are no precarious sections to navigate and you will not require special equipment.
Perhaps the drop from Rifugio Locatelli which takes you down the valley and to the other side may prove to be a bit challenging for some but a little excitement only adds to the fun!
THINGS TO REMEMBER BEFORE TAKING THE HIKE:
The trail can become rocky at certain stretches with some uneven footing. It is advisable to wear a durable pair of hiking boots or if you insist on cross-trainers, make sure the sole is sturdy and provides good traction.
A beautiful day at the Dolomites Italian Alps can change without warning and bring in torrential downpours or colder temperatures. To be safe, pack waterproof and warm clothing in your hiking bag.
While the Rifugios can offer fine food and drink, bring some nutritious energy bars and extra bottles of water to keep you well-energized and hydrated during the hike.
HIKING INFO RECAP:
Length – 10.3km
Ascent/Descent – 400m
Duration – 5 to 6 hours
Difficulty: Easy (with caution)
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By Matt Adams – Itsallinitaly.com
DOLOMITES HIKING EXPERIENCE IN THE ALTA VIA DEI MONZONI
Alta Via Dei Monzoni is one of the most interesting and rewarding hikes in the Dolomites. The trail can be easily accessed from Val di Fassa (the best starting point is the lovely village of Moena).
HOW TO GET THERE
You will have to reach the parking lot outside Seggiovia Costabella, located in Passo San Pellegrino. From there, you can take the chairlift to the initial point of the trail, which is a little less than 2000 meters above sea level.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS HIKE:
This particular hike doesn’t just offer incredible mountain views of the Italian Dolomites, but also insightful information about WWI, as it goes through the Italian and Austrian trenches which were used for the battles during the war.
The trail goes through the gorgeous pastures of Campagnacia, and all the way to Rifugio Passo Delle Selle, at 2500 meters above sea level and a perfect place to admire the surrounding peaks such as the Pale di San Martino.
From the Rifugio, the trail becomes a bit more difficult to follow, as it gets narrow and steep in points – it follows the first Austrian line, where the Austrian army had built its trenches during WWI. You will be able to check out some of the sniper and cannon stations.
The trail then goes to Ponte de Recoleta, from where it starts descending to Fango. Alternatively, you can head to Colifon where the Italian trenches were located and walk back down through the pastures all the way to Rifugio Paradiso – a perfect lunch spot.
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY AND OTHER USEFUL INFO:
This is one of the Dolomites easy to moderate hikes and it will take you around 5 to 6 hours to complete – depending on how long you spend snapping photos and admiring the majestic views.
The hike can be done independently through a local guide will be able to provide insightful information about the historical spots you will be coming across.
By Claudia Tavani – My Adventures Across The World
DOLOMITES HIKING: BOCCHETTE CENTRALI – VIA FERRATA
The Dolomites are famous for their wonderful landscapes, and in my opinion, the best way to get up close and personal with these wonderful rocky peaks is hiking a via Ferrata.
WHAT IS A VIA FERRATA? (FOR BEGINNER HIKERS)
In case you’re not familiar with the term, via Ferrata are hiking routes with protected climbing aids like ladders, steps, and chains, allowing you to progress across vertical and exposed sections easily.
Anyone can hike a via Ferrata, provided you’re in good physical shape and not too bothered by heights, and if you’re looking for a good one to start, I would recommend Bocchette Centrali, the most scenic via Ferrata in the Brenta Dolomites.
Not for the faint of heart or for people scared of heights! Photo credit via Instagram Michele MeX
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THI HIKE AND USEFUL ADVICE:
We recommend dedicating two days to hiking Bocchette Centrali. The first day could be spent hiking up to Rifugio Alimonta, a fairly easy three-hour hike from the Vallesinella car park near Madonna di Campiglio.
After a comfortable night sleep in the rifugio, marveling at the enrosadira (a natural phenomenon occurring at sunrise and sunset in the Dolomites, when the rocks turn pink and orange), you can spend the second day to the via Ferrata itself, which starts about 20 minutes walk from the rifugio.
Bocchette Centrali takes about three hours from start to finish, and the special thing about it is that it takes advantage of existing ledges and cornices in the mountain – it’s not technically difficult and offers stunning views over the peaks of the Brenta group the entire way.
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY:
If this is your first via Ferrata experience, we warmly recommend going with an Alpine guide, who will help you out over the most challenging sections and provide all necessary equipment – you’ll need a harness and a via Ferrata lanyard with two clips, to make sure you’re always securely tied to the cables running along the route. It’s a wonderful experience and I really recommend it to all mountain lovers!
By Margherita and Nick – The Crowded Planet
HIKING IN THE DOLOMITES: VAL GARDENA AND THE PUEZ ODLE NATURE PARK
One of the most rewarding experiences in northern Italy for mountains lovers is havingholidays in the Dolomites. This area of outstanding beauty is like a paradise for active travelers. Furthermore, in the Dolomites, you can easily combine the opportunity to practice a wide array of sports with gourmet food and a lot of pampering, as many hotels feature a spa.
The Dolomites happen to be one of my favorite places in the world to go hiking, and I could recommend multiple trails.One of the best hikes is in Val Gardena, from Col Raiser to Rifugio Firenze, and then all the way downhill to Santa Cristina.
HOW TO GET THERE:
You can hike up to Col Raiser from Santa Cristina in Val Gardena, or you can catch the cable car in S. Cristina, riding up to Col Raiser. If you’re staying in one of the towns of Val Gardena or the nearby Alpe di Siusi area, there are bus connections.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THIS HIKE:
It’s a fairly easy hike, suitable to almost anyone, including families with children and toddlers. What you’ll get is breathtaking scenery and some of the most stunning views in the Alps.
Furthermore, Rifugio Firenze is one of the oldest mountain huts in Val Gardena, dating back to 1888.
It’s all about having a great time, taking it slow, and enjoying one of the most beautiful sceneries in the Alps. Anyway, if you’re looking for challenges, there are plenty of alternative trails to choose from in the area.
By Simon Falvo – Wild About Travel
GENERAL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE DOLOMITES
Incredible shots of the Limides Lake in the Dolomites. Photo Credit via Instagram:Rick Rinaldi
I didn’t want to wait too long for you to read about these marvelous Dolomites Hikes so I decided to post the article, which is complete with all the Hiking trails provided by my colleagues, while I finish the FAQ’s section with some useful info for you, so stay tuned! For the updates, you can follow the website on Facebook and Instagram.
Thank you for your patience!
Essential Gear & Equipment For These Dolomites Hiking Trails:
THINGS TO REMEMBER BEFORE TAKING THE HIKE:
HOW TO GET THERE
