Trail run the Alta Via 1 Dolomites
Trail run the Alta Via - the 'best of the best' of the fabulous Italian Dolomites in 6 days! This spectacular mountainous area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. It has eighteen peaks rising to over 3000 metres, many with spectacular rock spires and towers, such as the world famous Tre Cime also known as the Drei Zinnen in German. The Alta Via 1 journeys north to south through the exceptional natural beauty, rock formations and geology that have made the Dolomites famous throughout the world. Be prepared to be impressed as you run through some of the most beautiful mountains in the world.
Highlights
- Run 110 kilometres (68 miles) of linked trails over 6 days
- Stunning mountain scenery
- Fabulous Italian food and hospitality
- Option to summit the Cime de Zitta
- Unique cultural experience of the Sud Tirol
- Refreshments at mountain huts in amazing locations
- Guided by a professional International Mountain Leader
- Luggage transfers
If you are going to run a mountain trail only once in your life then you really need to do the 'Dollies'! We think the Dolomites are truly spectacular! This is a very special and interesting part of the world on a number of counts. Unique in terms of it's geology and culture, presenting an interesting mix of Austrian and Italian traditions, food, and folklore. The area is known as the Sud Tyrol in German, and as the Alto Adige in Italian. It can be a little confusing to find that every village has two names, but it all adds to the feeling that you are truly somewhere 'a little different'.
We being our Dolomites, Itay, trekking adventure in Brunico, also known by its German name of Bruneck. This medieval village is the capital of Val Pusteria and offers a picturesque old town, with a host of shops and cafes to enjoy. Surrounded by the beautiful Dolomite mountains it's the perfect meeting point.
Optional Extra: Try Via Ferrata?
A via ferrata, which in Italian means the 'iron way', is a mountain route with fixed ‘protection’ such as metal ladders, handles and chain that you remain attached to using a climbing harness. This allows access to isolated trail systems, rocky cliff lines and summits normally reserved for climbers. The technique was initially developed by soldiers in the First World War, but has become an established, safe and popular sport. If you would like to try this activity before or after your trip then please ask us for more details. NB: Please note, we only use qualified IFMGA Guides for this activity and it is in addition to the proposed itinerary.
On this trip you are on holiday, it is not the race, and therefore we spend one week running the route and taking time to enjoy the mountains. Each day we will run/hike between 15-28km kilometres (10-17 miles), with at least one high mountain pass per day. We’re likely to be on our feet for between 5-8 hours per day with lots of ascent and descent on a variety of mountain trails. This trip is suitable for experienced mountain trail runners at an Advanced level.
Holiday Reviews
Grade: Advanced
READ GRADE DESCRIPTIONAt a Glance
| Holiday Type | Trail Running |
| Duration | 8 Days |
| Group Size | 4-10 |
| Minimum Age | 18 |
| Maximum Altitude | 2507m (8222ft) |
| Countries Visited | Italy |
| Meet In | Brunico, Italy |
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The Dramatic Dolomites
21 Apr 2016
Dates and Prices
2027 Departures
| Code | Start Date | Return Date | Duration | Price | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AVR1 |
04 Sep 2027
Saturday |
11 Sep 2027
Saturday |
8 days |
£3,070
Deposit: £900 |
Spaces Available | Book Now |
2028 Departures
| Code | Start Date | Return Date | Duration | Price | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AVR1 |
02 Sep 2028
Saturday |
09 Sep 2028
Saturday |
8 days |
£3,250
Deposit: £900 |
Spaces Available | Book Now |
What's Included
- The services of a fully qualified International Mountain Leader, who is also an experienced Trail Running guide
- All accommodation on a half board basis
- Four nights in very comfortable mountain 'rifugios', all with showers, and some with en suite facilities
- One night in a mountain refuge in shared dormitory style accommodation
- Showers and bedding in all of the rifugios
- Transport to the start of the route at Lago di Braies
- Transfer of luggage between all accommodations
What's Not Included
- Flights
- Insurance
- Lunches
- Drinks
- Extra activities outside the itinerary
- Travel to meeting point & from departure point
- Lifts & telecabines
Itinerary
Today you arrive in the town of Brunico, also know by its German name of Bruneck. Your guide will meet you this evening at our hotel at approximately 1830 hrs. Before and during dinner they will be on hand to answer questions and discuss the trip.
We start with a taxi ride to the famous beauty spot of Lago di Braies and true start of the Alta Via trail. The lake is spectacular filled with turquoise waters surrounded by towering cliffs. After running along the lake shore we begin to climb steadily under the striated cliffs of Monte Muro to our first pass at Porta Sora il Forn, at 2388m (7832ft). Here we are rewarded with immense views, and if the weather is kind we will see the glacier of the Marmolada glittering to the south west. the glacier is the only major ice field in the Dolomites. After taking in the views it's a short trot down to the Rifugio Biella for a morning coffee, or whatever else takes your fancy. We then have a lovely descent through flower meadows and farms to a steep jeep track which takes us down to another delightful Rifugio at Sennes. A break can be taken here if necessary or we continue on to Rifugio Pederu where we plan to stop for lunch. In the afternoon a steady climb takes us up through the wild and rocky Vallone di Rudo to Lago (lake) Piciodil, and with the reward of an excellent overnight stay in the heart of the Fanes nature park.
Ascent: 1620m (5314ft) Descent: 1030m (3379ft) Distance: 21km (13 miles) Duration: 5h00-5h30
Tonight you will not have access to luggage.
This morning we are soon rewarded with stunning views en route to Passo di Limo, at 2172m (7124ft), and its lake of the same name. High peaks surround this pastoral amphitheatre where the cows graze amidst its curious limestone slabs. We then traverse a rugged mountainside and have a final climb to arrive at the Forcetta del Lago - an impressive notch on the skyline sitting at 2486m (8154ft). You will probably think it looks like an impossible descent down the other side, but the path does exist providing stunning views all the way down to Lago di Lagazuoi at 2182m (7156ft) where pictures and a pause are a must! Then it's a gradual climb of 200m (656ft) to reach Rifugio Lagazuoi and what was a front line in WW1, where you can explore the gun emplacements, tunnels and Lagazuoi exhibition. The Rifugio Lagazuoi is in a truly amazing location perched high in the mountains and worth a refreshment stop to take in its history and surroundings. If time allows we can climb a little higher to the view point of the Piccolo Lagazoui for panoramic views. We then drop down to a pass and over the Forcella Travenanzes at 2507m (8222ft) before descending past a WW1 memorial. This is a sobering reminder of the bitter fighting which took place during this period of history. Enjoy fabulous views all the way down to the Col Gallina, where we will stay the night. Note: there is also a cable car from Rifugio Lagazuoi for those wishing to save their legs - although the cost of this is not included in the holiday price!
Ascent: 1150m (3772ft) Descent: 533m (1748ft) Distance: 15.7km (9.6 miles) Duration: 5h30-6h30 (Using the cable car)
Ascent: 1150m (3772ft) Descent: 900m (4179ft) Distance: 19km (11.3 miles) Duration: 7h00-8h00
Tonight you will have access to luggage.
Leaving the Col we have a short climb to reach a beautiful traversing trail which brings us to the rustic Rifugio Dibona were we can enjoy a cappucino on the terrace, then it's a steep descent through the larch forests before climbing all the way back up the other side of the next valley. On route there will be time to explore the 'sentiere de trenci' the open air WW1 trench museum around the base of the towers before setting off on our next climb of the day to the pass at Averau. However, there is the reward of refreshments at the top at another lovely Italian Rifugio. If the weather allows we love to extend this day climbing up to Rifugio Nuvolau and the summit of the same name. You will notice a theme developing - run, coffee, run, cake, run, lunch! We end this rather unique day with a rocky traversing trail under impressive cliffs that takes us to the pass and our accommodation at the famous pass of Passo Giau, at 2236m (7334ft). Enjoy a wonderful sunset here with impressive views north towards Cortina and south further into Veneto. We are now well on our way along the fabulous Alta Via 1 trail.
Ascent: 1139m (3736ft) Descent: 962m (3156ft) Distance: 18km (11 miles) Duration: 5h00-6h00 (includes detour to Nuvolau)
Leaving Passo Giau, we begin the crossing of 3 passes where we notice a distinct change of trail as we leave the rocky paths for lush green meadows. Our route climbs up and down through flower meadows where we descend into the next valley. This really is a gorgeous start to our day which often takes us past herds of horses, donkeys and cattle. After descending into a valley we climb back up to the next mountain pass as we follow Monte Formin’s impressive south cliffs leading to the Forcella Ambrizzola at 2277m (7468ft) and our third pass of the day. From here we have views of the mighty Civetta mountain range and a neolithic site. A gentle descent over pastures and through dairy herds brings us to the delightful Rifugio Citta de Fiume where we can enjoy a lunch break. Our final stretch for today is another traversing trail under the impressive peaks and spires of the wild and rugged Monte Pelmo, one of the famous landmark mountains of the Dolomites. Finally, it's down through the larch forests and if there's time to spare we can detour off in search of some dinosaur foot prints in the foot hills of the mighty Pelmo!
Ascent: 750m (2460ft) Descent: 810m (2657ft) Distance: 18km (11 miles) Duration: 5h00-6h00 (includes detour to the dinosaurs!)
An early start today as we commence the start of two longer days on the trail. We begin with a climb through the larch trees until we meet a well graded mule track to reach the shoulder of Cima Coldai, an outlier of the Civetta mountain. We arrive at the Rifugio Sonino Al Coldai for refreshments then it's west to the turquoise waters of Lago Coldai. This really is a very beautiful situation, and is to be enjoyed as we drop to the lake and over the Forcella Col Negro at 2203m (7225ft) before losing height and entering Val Civetta. With its slabs, peaks and pinnacles the 7km (4 miles) long west face of Monte Civetta towers 1200m (3936ft) overhead. A hanging icefield, the Cristallo, is suspended below the highest top. This face is known as the ‘wall of walls’ and its rock climbing routes are considered unique in the Alps. We now head over the Forcella di Col Rean, to reach the Rifugio Vazzoler for refreshments surrounded by an amphitheatre of the rock spires including the Torre Trieste, at 2458m (8062ft), and Cima della Busazza, at 2894m (9492ft). In the afternoon in the shade of the trees we traverse the mountain to gain the short, but steep pass of Forcella Col Dell’Orso at 1823m (5979ft). The remainder of our Alta Via is through woodland where we cross an ancient Austrian-Hungarian border then through meadows to reach the idyllic setting of Rifugio Carestiato where we can stop again before the final descent which brings us down to the Passo Duran.
Ascent: 1635m (5364ft) Descent: 1500m (4921ft) Distance: 26.5km (16.5 miles) Duration: 7h30-8h00
Today we enter the Parco Nazionale delle Dolomiti Bellunesi, the wildest of the national parks on the Alta Via 1 trail and where there is a good chance of spotting chamois and marmots. From Passo Duran our trail leads us around the southern slopes of the Tamer Grande. Immediately we experience the wildness of this mountainside with its cliffs and towering summits. Passing through the forest we have another climb to the remains of Moschesin garrison to reach the Forcella del Moschesin at 1940m (6364ft). The trail continues on to a point near the Rifugio Pramparet which sits in a wonderful remote setting with views along the Costa dei Nass valley. Leaving the peace and tranquil location of the Rifugio our path starts a long but fun descent through the forest till the hamlet of Forno Di Zoldo where we take a transfer to our overnight accommodation in the village of Pieve di Cadore.
Ascent: 840m (2755ft) Descent: 1513m (4960ft) Distance: 20km (12.5 miles) Duration: 7h00-8h00
Today is your departure day and Tracks and Trails services end after breakfast. There are good transport links from Pieve di Cadore to Venice airport. For those who wish to explore the area independently after the conclusion of the trip, you can also take public transport from Pieve di Cadore to the popular mountain resort of Cortina d'Ampezza.
It is our aim to complete the proposed itinerary outlined above, however, it may be necessary for our guides/instructors to adjust the daily itinerary based on the weather conditions, group safety and enjoyment.
Accommodation
We aim to accommodate our guests in well-situated, clean, characterful, family run accommodation. On this trip you will be overnighting in hotels on the first and last nights when accommodation is based on two people sharing a bedroom, what we call a 'twin' means two single beds in one bedroom. If you are booking as a single traveller you will share with someone of the same gender. A single room may be available for your private use on the first and last nights while in Cortina d'Ampezzo. This will incur a supplementary fee; the amount of which can be found in 'Trip Information' under 'Single Supplements'. However, these can be in demand , and require early booking. It is rare to have air conditioning in the mountain areas where our trips take place, and most bedrooms do not have this facility.
Our suggested accommodation, listed below, is subject to availability at the time of booking. As there is high demand on the Alta Via we regularly have to adapt our route and accommodation to take account of what is available. Having run this trip since 2015 we have excellent knowledge of the options. Once we begin the trip we will be staying in gorgeous Italian mountain Rifugios. Rifugio is the name given to mountain huts in Italy; they are above the normal standard expected in mountain huts elsewhere and would be better described as cosy rustic hotels. They all have hot showers, a bar and seating area, and are often in stunning locations. Read our Blog on staying in a mountain Rifugio.
In the Rifugios we aim to reserve bedrooms or small dormitories just for our group so you are not sharing with other groups, however, this cannot be guaranteed. In summary, once we being the trek you may be accommodated in private bedrooms with en suite facilities or in larger rooms with shared showers and toilets. We encourage early booking as more choice is available.
If you have any questions about the accommodation you are welcome to contact us.
Hotel Ander, Brunico (Bruneck)
Your accommodation for the first night of your holiday will be at the Hotel Ander in Brunico (Bruneck).
The Hotel Ander is a 4-star hotel offering comfortable accommodation with modern amenities and we feel it provides the perfect first nights accommodation in which to meet your guide and fellow travllers before your trek begins. The hotel is conveniently located near the train station and a short walk from Brunico's historic centre. After your arrival you may wish to make use of the spa facilities with saunas and a steam bath.
If we are unable to stay at the Hotel Ander we may book the group into its sister hotel the Hotel Post Alpine, which is on the outskirts of the town. The accommodation will be confirmed in the Joining Instructions which are sent to you approximately four weeks before departure.
Rifugio Pederu, Dolomites
The Rifugio Pederu is a lovely overnight stop. It is very comfortable, and has open meadows around the building.
The Pederu could be considered a more 'guest house' than a rifugio, and our accommodation may be in bedrooms rather than dorms. it's popularity means that we cannot make any promises as it depends on early booking. The bedrooms are en-suite, and there are also showers available on the floors for the dorms. Dinner is usually very good with great local dishes.
Rifugio Lagazuoi, Dolomites
Situated in the heart of the Dolomites at 2752m (9026ft), the Rifugio Lagazoui is a cosy place to spend the night.
Rifugio Lagazuoi is perched on the edge of a cliff and the evening and dawn views are worth watching! It has rooms decorated in traditional style with wood featuring extensively. Accommodation will either be in small rustic rooms, with showers and toilets on the same floor, or in dormitories.
It has a wood fired sauna which is outside the main building and there is something quite wonderful about taking a sauna while gazing at the Dolomites. The rooms are generally bedrooms for between 2 and 4 people, and there are showers on the floor. Dinner is usually very Italian featuring pastas and sauces.
Berg Hotel, Passo Giau
The Berg Hotel, 'berg' means mountain in German, is in a stunning location beneath the towering spires. It sits at 2236 metres (7330ft) on the Passo Giau.
It has 10 bedrooms and is one of the highest and most remot hotels in the Dolomites. The Berg Hotel offers wonderful views of the valley of Cortina d'Ampezzo and the peaks of the Tofane, Croda Rossa, Cristallo and Croda da Lago. A wonderful overnight location.
Rifugio Staulanza, Dolomites
The Staulanza is definitely more 'hotel' than rifugio and another one of our favourite overnight stays in the Dolomites.
Rifugio Saulanza's accommodation sits right on the high pass of Staulanza, and has a lovely terrace for enjoying a well-earned drink. The bar area is very cosy, and the bedrooms are generally all en suite. Dinner is very Italian and features local dishes. It is run by Marco Sala a respected Italian mountaineer and the walls are adorned with his photographs taken during some impressive expeditions to the Himalaya, and other famous mountain ranges.
Rifugio Tome, Passo Duran
The Tomé Hut is a welcoming rifugio located at Passo Duran.
Our guests and guide loved the location of the Tomé hut. The food and most of all the owner, whose love of the area and of the mountains bubbled over in easy conversation at every opportunity.
Hotel Giardino, Pieve di Cadore
Hotel Giardino is a charming, family-owned, 3-star hotel nestled in the picturesque town of Pieve di Cadore. The hotel is renowned for its warm hospitality and stunning views of the surrounding Dolomites.
You can rely on a warm welcome to the family-run Hotel Giardino. Many of the rooms have a balcony so that you can relax and soak in the mountain views or head down to relax in the bar area. In the evening you can look forward to local Italian cuisine served in the hotels restaurant. The breakfast is buffet style.
Trip Information
Arrival
The meeting point for this trip is Brunico, also known as Bruneck, in the Italian Dolomites. Be aware when making travel plans in the Dolomites that towns and villages are often known by two names, one being Italian and the other German.
By Train:
If you are travelling from the UK it is possible to make the journey by train. For planning train travel we recommend using Rail Europe and Trainline to book your tickets and plan routes.
By bus: For travelling by coach, large operators like Eurolines, Flixbus and Blablacar Bus are reliable and inexpensive options.
By Air: We would suggest that you fly into either Innsbruck (Austria), Venice (Italy) or Verona (Italy).
Innsbruck Airport: The journey can be undertaken by either Flix bus or train to Bressanone (Brixen) and then change to a local bus on to Brunico (Bruneck). The journey time is approximately 3 hours.
Venice Airport: (either Marco Polo or Treviso airports) Take either the Cortina Express or Flix bus to Dobbiaco/Toblach and then change to a local bus on to Brunico (Bruneck) . The journey time is approximately 5 hours.
Verona Airport: Take either the Cortina Express or Flix bus to Bressanone (Brixen) and then change to a local bus to Brunico (Bruneck). The journey time is approximately 4 hours.
Check out Rome2Rio for other options, including trains from Venice or even for the entire journey from the UK.
Departure
The final night of the holiday is spent in the mountain town of Pieve di Cadore. On the morning of departure there are regular bus services from Pieve di Cadore with the Cortina Express or Flix bus to Venice airports, taking around 1h30, or Verona which takes around 4 hrs. We do not recommend flying from Innsbruck at the end of your trip due to the complexity of public transport from Pieve di Cadore to Innsbruck.
Extra days
You might want to head north to spend some extra days exploring the Winter Olympic 2026 town of Cortina d'Ampezza. The bus journey to Cortina d'Ampezza takes around 1h15. From Cortina d'Ampezzo the bus and train links to Innsbruck relatively easy.
If you would like to arrange a private transfer to/from the airports at the start or end of your holiday then we suggest that you cotact www.taxicortinasci.it
It is your responsibility to ensure any insurance taken out is appropriate for your trip and the activity you will be undertaking. Tracks & Trails cannot advise on insurance policies or be held responsible if, in the event of a claim, your insurance is inadequate.
Activity, Injury and Mountain Rescue It is a condition of booking you are insured for mountain rescue, medical expenses, injury, illness, death, cost of repatriation and personal accident risks. The exception to the mountain rescue insurance requirement is if the trip is taking place in the United Kingdom or Norway where mountain rescue is free of charge. Ensure your insurance covers you to the maximum altitude given on your trip itinerary. The maximum altitude can be checked in the 'At A Glance' box on the trip page.
Trip Cancellation/Curtailment Insurance Insurance should be booked as soon as we confirm your trip is going ahead. Deposit and balance payments are non-refundable unless it is Tracks and Trails who cancel the trip due to a failure to reach the minimum numbers required. In this case we offer a full refund or the option to transfer to another trip.
Baggage Loss/Equipment Damage We advise insurance which covers baggage loss/equipment damage.
All the above is detailed in our Terms and Conditions. For further information on insurance options click here.
When packing for a trip in the mountains it is important to have appropriate equipment and clothing. This kit list features items we believe are necessary for the weather you might encounter and accommodation you will be staying in. If you have any questions with regards to what to bring, do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
Equipment
- Trail Running shoes - for a variety of trails
- Running poles - highly recommended for long climbs/mixed terrain
- Running pack/vest maximum 20 litres, ideally with a chest and waist strap. Test your pack for comfort once full
- Rucksack liner/cover - to keep contents dry
- Water container 1-1.5 litres, or 2 x 'soft' flasks
- Survival blanket - 1.40m x 2m minimum
Clothing
You must be able to cover yourself with 3 full layers on your upper body and 2 full layers on your legs
- Waterproof jacket with hood - waterproof and breathable membrane designed for mountain use
- Waterproof over trousers
- Mid-length tights and longs socks or long running tights to cover the legs completely
- Thermal top – long sleeves
- Thin fleece/lightweight down jacket
- Running shorts/skort
- Breathable t-shirt/vest
- Warm hat
- Ear/headband
- Baseball cap/sun hat
- Gloves x 2 - 1 thick and 1 thin pair
- Running socks
- Recovery socks/compression socks - optional
- Scarf/buff for neck
- Fleece/ wind stopper waistcoat - optional
Comfort
- Lip salve
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses – essential
- Toilet/tissue paper - we recommend biodegradable bags to dispose of rubbish
- Snacks for running - bars/gels /energy drinks/trail mix/recovery drinks etc
Personal First Aid
- Personal medication – if required
- Blister Plasters
- Normal Bandaids
- Blister tape - eg Strappal
- Pain relief/anti-inflammatories
- Glucose tablets
- 2 x Re-hydration sachets
- A few throat lozenges
- Anti-chaffing cream/Vaseline
- Antiseptic cream/spray
- Bandage/Knee support
Documentation
- Cash – Euros
- Credit card
- Passport
- Waterproof bag for documents
- Mountain Rescue Insurance - compulsory
- GHIC - if travelling from UK for medical cover
Additional Items
- Camera
- Phone that will function in the countries that you are visiting
- Clothing for use in hotels
- Swimwear for pool/hot tubs if available
- Ear plugs – recommended if sharing a room
- Head torch - also useful when sharing a room
- Maps can be bought locally - optional
- Heart rate monitor – optional
- GPS watch/phone - to track your route, optional
- Toiletries - soap/shower gel as not all accommodations supply this
- Padlock - for luggage being transferred
- 1 Medium sized - kitbag/holdall/suitcase
Check out the What kit to bring Blog post on our website for further advice on:
- the minimum requirement the racers carry
- weight saving ideas
- how to waterproof your kit
- ideal trail shoes for the route
- nutrition advice
Your luggage will be moved each day by a taxi driver. Please restrict yourself to one bag of approximately 15kg (33lbs) per person. Not all hotels have 'lifts' and you must be able to carry your luggage upstairs. There may be a charge imposed by the taxi company if you have more than 1 bag, and we would ask you to cover this.
**Supplementary snacks if you follow a gluten free or coeliac diet**
Leaders are all first aid trained and will carry their own first aid kit
On many trips there will be an element of 'group kit'. This kit will will be minimal and usually a case of sharing a few lightweight 'survival shelters'. For example, on a week-long trip you may carry a shelter for one day before passing it to the next person. If you are booking a trip in winter there will be a few additional safety items, such as a snow shovel, probe, spare ski pole etc.
For each trip a minimum number of guests is required before we can confirm your trip will go-ahead. Minimum and maximum numbers are displayed in 'At a Glance' on the righthand of the trip page. If you book travel before we have emailed to confirm the trip is guaranteed we cannot be held responsible for any financial loss.
When booking a holiday as a solo traveller a twin bedded room comprising of two single beds, is booked as standard. This will be with someone of the same gender unless you request to pay extra for your own room. Single rooms are often limited in supply so if you would like to pay a supplement for a single room we urge you to get in touch as soon as possible. This trip has a single supplement of £475 in 2026 and £505 in 2027.
On this point-to-point trip you will have luggage support which means your bags are transferred each day to the next accommodation and you only need to carry a small/medium sized 'rucksack' for items you might need during the course of the day. Please refer to the kit list for this trip for guidance on the size of rucksack required.
As your luggage will be moved along the route by taxi we ask that you keep the weight to a maximum of 15kgs (33lbs), and ONE bag per person. Many of the taxi companies who move your bags impose a 15kg (33lbs) limit and restrict the number of bags simply because they have to unload and reload the vehicle many times each day. If you take more than one bag you may be asked to pay a supplement. Also with regard to weight be aware that you may have to carry your luggage to your bedroom, which may involve climbing several flights of stairs as not all hotels have elevators. Luggage on wheels is a good idea.
The statistics given on your itinerary relating to ascent, descent and distance should be used as a 'general' indication of the effort required. This is a guideline to help you decide if, based on previous experience, your fitness and stamina are correct for the trip. We ask you to note that the even the most modern of technology can show considerable variations in terms of ascent, descent, and in particular distance.
Your leader will carry the correct maps and you are not expected to navigate, but if you would like to have maps of the itinerary you could consider those listed below:
Tabacco Maps 031: Pragser Dolomiten - Enneberg 1:25,000
Tabacco Maps 03: Cortina d'Ampezzo e Dolomiti Ampezzane 1:25,000
Tabacco Maps 025: Dolomiti di Zoldo Cadorine e Agordino 1:25,000
Tabacco Maps 024: Prealpi e Dolomiti Bellunesi 1:25,000
Summer mountain weather in the Italian Dolomites can vary considerably, and in this respect it is no different to any mountain environment where the terrain influences the weather and it can change from valley to valley. Summer months it is generally good, but can deliver everything from glorious sunshine, to rain, fog, high winds and even snow. Temperatures can reach over 30°Celsius (86°F) in July and August, but can drop to 5°Celsius (41°F) on the high passes. Essentially, as with all mountain journeys, you should be prepared for any eventuality. The average temperatures range from 15-25°Celsius (59-77°F) in the valleys and 5-15°Celsius (41-59°F) on the passes. Even in mid-summer we can be faced with overnight snow.
Food On our trips we encourage you to experience local tastes and dishes. If you are vegetarian catering for your diet is not generally a problem. If you have a 'special' diet because of an allergy/intolerance we ask that you make your needs clear on your booking form so we can discuss your requirements with the accommodation. A diet that is not related to an allergy/intolerance or beliefs cannot be catered for. It is simply not possible for mountain accommodation to deal with many variations in diet while providing meals for groups.
In addition, if you have an allergy/intolerance we would suggest you bring/purchase suitable snacks as a supplement to the picnic lunches. At times finding gluten free bread, for example, can be an issue. If you would like to discuss the suitability of a trip for a vegan diet, gluten or lactose intolerance please contact us. We request that you do not CHANGE your dietary requirements during the trip as we will have pre-ordered your meals.
Water If the accommodation has a problem with the water supply they will post a sign over the tap indicating that you must not drink the water, otherwise it is normal to drink from the tap. Hotels - It is not uncommon for restaurants to charge for tap water at the evening meal. If this is the case then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost. Mountain Huts - If your trip features a stay in a mountain hut/refuge and the tap water is not potable then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost of bottled water at the evening meal. Sparkling water is not included in this option and any cost should be covered by you.
Plastic credit or debit cards or smartphone pay systems are increasingly accepted throughout the areas where we run trips. Some countries, such as Norway, are moving towards a cashless society. However, in Europe, in the mountain areas where we run trips, a small amount of cash in the local currency is useful. For example, if you stop at a family-run mountain cafe or farm they may not accept cards or smartphone systems, and cash will be necessary. We recommend having enough cash in the local currency to pay for a few snacks and drinks. Whether to bring cash or not is at your own discretion.
A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required. We suggest keeping your passport in your rucksack, and a paper copy of your passport in your luggage. If your trip does not include luggage support carry a paper copy with you, but separate from your passport. You should check passport requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate for the country you are visiting, paying attention to your citizenship. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice.
NEW European Travel Regulations 2026 If you are travelling to Europe you may be impacted by a change to travel regulations. In the last quarter of 2026, the European Commission will roll out a U.S. style electronic travel authorisation system for visitors from countries that are currently not part of the EU. It is your responsibility to check for updates with regard to the introduction date.
We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at: Plug, Socket & Voltage by Country
If your trip involves staying in a mountain refuge/rifugio/hut a slimline and lightweight 'battery pack' can be useful for recharging phones etc. This type of accommodation will generally have electricity, but it may be limited in supply, and it is not always possible to charge items.
Optional Extra: A via ferrata, which in Italian means the 'iron way', is a precipitous mountain route with added fixed ‘protection’ such as metal ladders, handles and chains. You will wear a climbing harness and be attached to this protection at all times. This allows access to isolated trail systems, rocky cliff lines and summits normally reserved for climbers. The technique was initially developed by soldiers in the First World War, but has become a popular sport. Ask for details if you would like to try this activity before or after your trip. We only use qualified IFMGA Guides for this activity which is available for an extra charge.
If you would like help preparing for your adventure you could consider booking a Quick Fix session with personal trainer Kate Brown. This is aimed at those who want to get ready for any of our Summer activities. Your booking with Kate will involve a 45 minute 1:1 video consultation and action plan. You can read more about her ethos and experience here.
We also offer free training videos on our YouTube channel:
Tracks and Trails pays guides/instructors a fair and appropriate fee for their professional service. If you feel your guide/instructor has provided an excellent service that went 'above and beyond' then it is at the discretion of each guest whether to tip or not. Guests will often give a tip of between 2 - 5 per cent of the total value of their trip. It is entirely up to you and any gesture will no doubt be appreciated no matter the size.
Before booking consider whether you expect to be in the appropriate physical condition on the date of your departure to allow you to fully participate in and enjoy your holiday. If you have any doubts because of an illness or injury it would be advisable to check with your doctor. We advise you always carry your insurance documents with details of the Emergency Medical telephone number for your insurance provider, and your policy number.
GHIC For UK residents travelling to an EU country you should obtain and bring your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). The GHIC gives access to state healthcare in Europe either free or at a reduced cost. The GHIC is not a substitute for medical travel insurance.
EHIC If you have a UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) it will be valid until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you should apply for a GHIC.
We feel strongly about protecting the environment and do not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We would ask that you arrive with a ‘water bottle’ or ‘hydration system’ that can be used repeatedly. We operate a zero tolerance for rubbish, and would ask you to remove all items from the mountain, this includes toilet tissue, and those items you consider to be bio-degradable.
The waste water in mountain huts, also known as refuges/rifugios, often runs into nearby streams and rivers with a potential impact on the eco-system, though in many places steps are now being taken to avoid this. Whether or not your trip involves staying in a mountain hut we would nevertheless recommend you consider nature friendly sunscreens which only contain mineral UV-blocking ingredients such as oxide, and titanium dioxide.
Working across international boundaries, and with various currencies means the price of our trips can change overnight. We have undertaken to guarantee that once you have paid your deposit the price of your trip is fixed. The website price may increase due to currency fluctuations, but we guarantee that the price advertised on the date of your booking will be maintained.
We believe in team work, and enjoy working with other small high quality companies. All our trips are organised by Tracks and Trails, but you may be joined by guests from other companies. Partners are carefully selected to ensure they reflect our ethos and standards. By working with other companies your chosen holiday may reach its minimum number earlier, allowing us to guarantee the trip and give you the go-ahead to book your travel. We guarantee that companies with whom we work will offer the same price package. If you have any questions about this policy contact us.
We go to great lengths to work with first class guides who are passionate about their work. They are fully qualified, insured, and hold the correct documentation. Your guide has our authority to make any route changes they believe are necessary in the interests of safety and enjoyment. Your trail running guide will be a qualified and experienced International Mountain Leader. IML's are trained to ensure the safe management of the group, but are also a source of knowledge about the local flora and fauna, culuture and traditions. Many of our trail running guides have competed in mountain marathons, and ultra marathons in the European Alps and further afield. You can learn more about our guides and instructors on the About Us page.
We do not include lunches in your trip fee for various reasons, the most important of which is food waste. Most people have particular tastes and requirements for 'trail' or 'hill' food and it is better you purchase your own snacks rather than throw away items from the picnic lunch which we would supply. Lunches on our trips are 'picnic' style lunches, in other words you take a packed lunch with sufficient snacks, food and fluid to sustain you throughout the day. Buying snacks and trying local specialities is a great way to inter-act with local people and to practise your language skills.
If there is the possibility of lunch being taken at a restaurant/farm/cafe beside the trail, your guide/instructor will advise you of this. Each evening you can order a picnic/sandwich from your accommodation, or your guide/instructor will advise you of options such as a local shop or market. In all cases we would ask you to settle any 'bill' for lunch or drinks the evening before you depart, and not in the morning when there may be a queue.
