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Dolomites Trekking Tour in Refugios

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Dolomites Trekking Tour in Refugios
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Beautiful panoramic views from Hut to Hut Trekking Tour in the Dolomites
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The Dolomites Trekking Tour in Refugios is an incredible adventure that showcases the natural beauty of northern Italy and the dolomites region. Explore famous peaks, picturesque alpine valleys and some of the best scenery the Alps have to offer on this 10-day self-guided trekking tour in the Dolomites.

Beginning with the three pinnacles of Tre Cime, each day of this Dolomites trekking tour offers new wonders to behold and amazing experiences to be had. The Haute Route Trek will take you up to stunning overlooks, down through scenic valleys, and along the shores of quiet alpine lakes. You will be amazed at the diversity of the landscape as it continually impresses you at each stage of this 10-day self-guided trekking tour.

Along the way, you will encounter the Italian and German cultures of the Tyrolean region of the Alps, as you enjoy warm hospitality and delicious local food while staying in mountain huts and hotels. This trekking tour in the Dolomites is an unforgettable adventure that will be sure not to disappoint!

What Time of Year to Trek the Dolomites

When considering what time of year is best to trek the Dolomites, the answer is July through mid-September. During this window is when hikers will experience the most favourable weather and trail conditions, as the snow will have largely melted by late-June. With that being said, the summer season is also the busiest time, so you will need to plan accordingly if you are looking to book accommodations in the area.

Why Trek in the Dolomites

If you are pondering the question of why trek in the Dolomites, the answer is simple: you should trek in the Dolomites because it is a breathtaking travel destination, no matter the time of year! Dramatic mountain peaks, serene alpine valleys, and charming European villages all make trekking in the Dolomites an incredible experience that you won’t soon forget!

What is a Refugio

Confused and wondering exactly what is a refugio? When translated into English refugio means refuge, and the term is often seen as being interchangeable with mountain huts. While images of hostels may come to mind, refugios are more like a guesthouse with the purpose of serving trekkers in remote areas. If you are planning on trekking in the Dolomites, you will certainly become acquainted with all that refugios have to offer!

Which towns are closest to the Dolomites Trekking Tour in Refugios?

Many travellers want to know which towns are closest to the Dolomites Trekking Tour in Refugios, as the route is situated in the remote mountains of Northern Italy. Here are three towns that you will find nearby on the Dolomites Trekking Tour in Refugios:

Bolzano

Bolzano is often referred to as the gateway to the Dolomites, and is the largest and capital city of South Tyrol - a province in the north of Italy. The city is situated at a point where the three valleys of Sarntal, Eisacktal, and Adige all converge, making it a great base from which to explore the surrounding area. Prior to World War 1, Bolzano and the surrounding territory of South Tyrol were actually a part of Austria, before falling under Italian control.

Brixen

Brixen is a charming town that is situated in the Italian province of South Tyrol. It is one of the oldest towns in the region, being first mentioned way back in 901 CE. Located near the border with Austria and surrounded by mountainous terrain, Brixen is best known as a ski resort town.

Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cortina d’Ampezzo is a small town in Northern Italy that has a population of around 6,000 people. It is situated within an alpine valley along the Boite River, and is well known as both a summer and winter tourism destination - drawing a particularly large amount of tourists for the winter ski season. The main economic focus of Cortina d’Ampezzo is tourism, and the population of the town swells to approximately 40,000 people during the winter months.

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Dolomites Trekking Tour in Refugios

Experience mountain views on a Dolomites Trekking Tour
4.60
(245 reviews)
10 days from $2,150USD
Easy quote
Duration
10 days
Season
Jun-Sep
Activity
Trekking
Type
Self-Guided, Private
Hotels and Mountain huts
Difficulty
Hard (4/5)
From $2,150USD (see prices for this tour)
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Beautiful panoramic views from Hut to Hut Trekking Tour in the Dolomites
Personalized Service
Let our experienced travel advisors plan your perfect adventure

The Dolomites Trekking Tour in Refugios is an incredible adventure that showcases the natural beauty of northern Italy and the dolomites region. Explore famous peaks, picturesque alpine valleys and some of the best scenery the Alps have to offer on this 10-day self-guided trekking tour in the Dolomites.

Beginning with the three pinnacles of Tre Cime, each day of this Dolomites trekking tour offers new wonders to behold and amazing experiences to be had. The Haute Route Trek will take you up to stunning overlooks, down through scenic valleys, and along the shores of quiet alpine lakes. You will be amazed at the diversity of the landscape as it continually impresses you at each stage of this 10-day self-guided trekking tour.

Along the way, you will encounter the Italian and German cultures of the Tyrolean region of the Alps, as you enjoy warm hospitality and delicious local food while staying in mountain huts and hotels. This trekking tour in the Dolomites is an unforgettable adventure that will be sure not to disappoint!

What Time of Year to Trek the Dolomites

When considering what time of year is best to trek the Dolomites, the answer is July through mid-September. During this window is when hikers will experience the most favourable weather and trail conditions, as the snow will have largely melted by late-June. With that being said, the summer season is also the busiest time, so you will need to plan accordingly if you are looking to book accommodations in the area.

Why Trek in the Dolomites

If you are pondering the question of why trek in the Dolomites, the answer is simple: you should trek in the Dolomites because it is a breathtaking travel destination, no matter the time of year! Dramatic mountain peaks, serene alpine valleys, and charming European villages all make trekking in the Dolomites an incredible experience that you won’t soon forget!

What is a Refugio

Confused and wondering exactly what is a refugio? When translated into English refugio means refuge, and the term is often seen as being interchangeable with mountain huts. While images of hostels may come to mind, refugios are more like a guesthouse with the purpose of serving trekkers in remote areas. If you are planning on trekking in the Dolomites, you will certainly become acquainted with all that refugios have to offer!

Which towns are closest to the Dolomites Trekking Tour in Refugios?

Many travellers want to know which towns are closest to the Dolomites Trekking Tour in Refugios, as the route is situated in the remote mountains of Northern Italy. Here are three towns that you will find nearby on the Dolomites Trekking Tour in Refugios:

Bolzano

Bolzano is often referred to as the gateway to the Dolomites, and is the largest and capital city of South Tyrol - a province in the north of Italy. The city is situated at a point where the three valleys of Sarntal, Eisacktal, and Adige all converge, making it a great base from which to explore the surrounding area. Prior to World War 1, Bolzano and the surrounding territory of South Tyrol were actually a part of Austria, before falling under Italian control.

Brixen

Brixen is a charming town that is situated in the Italian province of South Tyrol. It is one of the oldest towns in the region, being first mentioned way back in 901 CE. Located near the border with Austria and surrounded by mountainous terrain, Brixen is best known as a ski resort town.

Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cortina d’Ampezzo is a small town in Northern Italy that has a population of around 6,000 people. It is situated within an alpine valley along the Boite River, and is well known as both a summer and winter tourism destination - drawing a particularly large amount of tourists for the winter ski season. The main economic focus of Cortina d’Ampezzo is tourism, and the population of the town swells to approximately 40,000 people during the winter months.

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Trip highlights

Hike past the three majestic pinnacles of Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

Surround yourself with authentic Tyrolean culture and hospitality as you stay in mountain huts along your trek.

Experience some of the most rugged battlefield terrain of World War One on the Italian Front.

Trek through lush valleys, across brilliant green pastures, around stunning mountain lakes, and experience the full diversity of the Dolomite landscape.

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Day by day itinerary
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Day 1
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Meet in Bressanone
Make your way to Bressanone (Brixen), Italy. When you check in to your hotel, you will receive a travel pack containing all the information you need for your tour.
Distance None
Overnight Location  3-Star hotel in Bressanone
Included Meals None
Day 2
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Trek to Tre Cime and stay at Locatelli Hut
At 9:00 AM, a taxi will meet you at your hotel and take you to Val Camp di Dentro, where you will begin your trek in the Dolomites. The day begins with an easy, pleasant walk to the Dreischusterhütte Hut. From here, you will truly enter the heart of the Dolomite mountains. Your hike continues to the renowned Tre Cime, beneath the legendary Torre di Toblin. A well-known via ferrata from World War I can be found here. Leave your backpack at the Locatelli Hut and feel free to explore this incredible area. Spend the night at Locatelli Hut, which is one of the oldest huts in the Dolomites. Built in 1883 but renovated more recently, this mountain hut is in the perfect location for Tre Cime adventures, such as an optional guided via ferrata climbing tour. Book this tour in advance, either on Paterno or Torre di Toblin.
Distance 12 km / 4 hours hiking. 950 m elevation gain, 100 m elevation loss
Overnight Location Locatelli Hut
Included Meals  Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3
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Trek to Prato Piazza Hut
As you leave the Locatelli Hut behind you, take in one final view of the stunning north faces of Tre Cime. Continue your trek westward along an easy path that leads you down through the Val Ribon. Hike to the bottom of this valley, then follow the trail uphill again to the Strudelkopfsattel Pass (2,200 m / 7,218 ft) in the shadow of Monte Specie. Finish the day by hiking down through lovely Dolomite pastures in the Pratopiazza Valley. Spend a cozy night resting at the Prato Piazza Hut.
Distance 16 km / 6 hours hiking. 800 m elevation gain, 1,200 m elevation loss
Overnight Location  Prato Piazza Hut
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4
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Trek to Lago di Braies
Cross the lovely Prato Piazza meadow and continue hiking toward Croda Rossa (3,146 m / 10,322 ft), which is also called Hohe Gaisl in German. This exciting trail involves trekking along a via ferrata (chains), though people prone to vertigo should consider bypassing this route via the trail that leads to Ponticello. After this, another pleasant path leads you through beautiful alpine pastures to reach the Cavallo Pass (2,287 m / 7,503 ft). From the pass, hike down to the breathtaking Lake Braies (Lago di Braies) where you will spend the night in this magical location.
Distance 12 km / 5.5 hours hiking. 500 m elevation gain, 1,000 m elevation loss
Overnight Location  Hotel Lago di Braies
Included Meals  Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5
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Trek to Malga Ra Stua
Today’s hike takes you along the opposite side of this clear, alpine lake and along the western side of Croda del Becco. When you reach the Forcella di Riciogogn (2,331 m / 7,648 ft), you will enter an “altitude rock desert”. Continue until you reach a small, traditional mountain hut called Biella, which is an excellent place to stop and eat lunch. After lunch, your trail descends into the valley and pass the lovely Gran de Foses Lake. Hike to the valley bottom and find your charming accommodations for the night: the Malga Ra Stua mountain hut.
Distance  14 km / 6 hours hiking. 1,000 m elevation gain, 800 m elevation loss
Overnight Location  Malga Ra Stua Hut
Included Meals  Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6
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Trek to Fanes
Hike along a historic trail that was built by Austrians during the first World War until you reach the Fodara Vedla Hut. Your trail then continues on to Pederu and Alta Via Dolomiti #1. End the day with a trek through the Fanes Valley until you come to the renowned open pastures of Fanes. Here, you’ll spend the night in the Üćia de Fanes mountain hut, and enjoy their warm hospitality and wonderful local cuisine.
Distance 11 km / 4 hours hiking. 850 m elevation gain, 500 m elevation loss
Overnight Location Fanes Hut
Included Meals  Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7
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Trek to Gardenaccia Hut
During today’s unusual hike across the Fanes high plateau (altipiano), try to imagine how it looked thousands of years ago when this tableland was an island surrounded by a lagoon. As you cross the plateau, keep your eyes open for fossils from this era. When you have reached Medesc Pass, the trail takes a downward turn toward Alta Badia. Initially, the trail has a very steep grade, but it becomes gentler as it meanders through the forest. A final push on this long day will bring you to the Gardenaccia Hut (2,050 m / 6,726 ft) where you will enjoy a comfortable night’s rest and fantastic views of the Fanes high plateau and Marmolada mountain. Marmolada, at 3,343 m (10,968 ft), is the tallest peak in the Dolomites. This is a long day, and the final stretch up to Gardenaccia Hut can be shortened by taking a chairlift.
Distance 14.5 km / 7 hours hiking. 1,200 m elevation gain, 1,200 m elevation loss
Overnight Location  Gardenaccia Hut
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8
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Trek over Passo Sella to Friedrich August Hut
Begin with a short trek up to the Gardenaccia Pass (2,543 m / 8,343 ft). Then follow a pleasant trail to the Puez Hut, where you will find fantastic views of Marmolada and the surrounding peaks. Leaving the hut, the path winds steeply down into the San Silvestro Valley, where peaceful, lovely alpine pastures await you.  Follow the trail through this serene valley until you reach Wolkenstein Village and the San Silvestro Church. From here, a bus will take you to the renowned Passo Sella. Spend the night in the nearby Friedrich August Hut.
Distance 15 km / 5.5 hours hiking. 650 m elevation gain, 1,000 m elevation loss
Overnight Location Friedrich August Hut
Included Meals  Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9
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Trek over Passo di Fassa to Alpe Di Tires Hut
Follow the Friedrich August Trail along a long stretch of balcony to the Passo di Fassa, then continue west, climbing up to the Val Duron Valley. At the beginning of the famous Rosengarten Range, you will find your accommodations for the night: the Alpe Di Tires Hut.
Distance 12 km / 4 hours hiking. 700 m elevation gain, 500 m elevation loss
Overnight Location  Alpe di Tires Hut
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10
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Trek to Nova Levante and transfer to Bolzano
End your trekking tour today with another incredible hike in the Dolomites.  You will start from the Alpe Di Tires Hut and hike through the Rosengarten Range. This amazing “Rose garden” massif gets its name from the pink tint in the rock, caused by the mineral dolomite. Hike to the Passo Principe Hut, a fantastic sight as it is built into the rock. Continue along the trail on a gentle descent to the Vajolet Hut. From here you have a choice. You can either take a shorter but much more challenging trail which leads to the Coronelle Pass, where there is also a hut. Alternatively, a longer, easier trail will take you to Paolina Hut. However you conclude your trek, ride a lift down to the Nova Levante Valley, where you can find a bus transfer to Bolzano.
Distance 9-13 km / 5.5 hours hiking. 1,000 m elevation gain, 1,100 m elevation loss
Overnight Location N/A
Included Meals  Breakfast

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Dates and prices

Pricing for this self-guided Dolomites trekking Tour, staying in hotels and mountain huts, depends on the number of guests in your group.

2025 Departures:
The departures are available daily, from June 22nd to September 14th, 2025.

  • Self-guided group of 2: $3,125USD per person
  • Self-guided group of 3: $2,595USD per person
  • Self-guided groups of 4: $2,350USD per person
  • Self-guided groups of 5: $2,275USD per person
  • Self-guided groups of 6: $2,150USD per person
  • Self-guided groups of 7+: on request
What’s included

Meals

9 breakfasts and 8 dinners. Dinner in Bressanone on day 1 is not included. Lunches can be purchased at your own expense from grocery stores or mountain huts to be eaten along the trail.

Accommodations

Accommodations for 9 nights included as described above.

Baggage Transfers

Your bags will be transported between accommodations by vehicle, so that while hiking you need only carry what you need during the day. Note that this service is not available on days 2 and 7 as these accommodations (Locatelli and Gardenaccia) cannot be reached by car. You are in charge of any personal transfers.

Also Included

  • The Roadbook, as well as maps and reservation vouchers, for a 4-person group
  • Access to a mobile app that includes GPS guidance
  • 24/7 Emergency Hotline

Not included

  • Showers at mountain huts
  • Drinks, tips, and other personal expenses
  • Travel insurance for trip cancellation or interruption, lost or stolen baggage, or other assistance
  • Tickets to any attractions
  • Public transportation and optional chairlifts during the tour:
    • Optional Via Ferrata climb up “Paterno” or “Torre di Toblin” (day 2)
    • Optional chairlift to Gardenaccia Hut (day 7)
    • Shuttle bus (25 min) from Wolkenstein to Passo Sella (day 8)
    • Shuttle bus (20-40 min) from Nova Levante to Bolzano (day 10)

Optional extras

  • Daily packed lunch (days 3-9)
  • Via Ferrata climb (day 2): Climb up “Paterno” or “Torre di Toblin” including English-speaking guide and technical gear.

Accommodation for Dolomites Trekking Tour in Refugios

Accommodations on this tour are primarily in mountain huts and occasionally hotels. Mountain huts typically offer dormitory style rooms. You will stay in the best and smallest rooms available, but expect to share rooms with several people. Facilities such as showers and toilets are also shared and are typically outside of the room.

Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
Single rooms on this tour are not available.

Frequently asked questions

How hard is this tour?

We rate this tour as a 4 / 5. Be prepared to hike about 6-7 hours each day, covering about 15-18km along mountain trails. Expect 700-1,000 m of elevation gain or loss each day.

Do I need a Visa?

Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government. Many nationalities will require a Visa that must be secured in advance of their trip. Details on a tourist Visa in Pakistan can be found here..

Are meals included?

9 breakfasts and 8 dinners are included. Other meals are at your expense.

Do I need insurance?

Yes, it is mandatory to have Health and Medical insurance to join this trip. You can get travel insurance here.

How do I get to Bressanone to start this tour?

Make your own way by bus to Bressanone or add private airport transfer (for an additional fee) when booking your tour. The closest international airports are Verona, Venezia, or Innsbruck.

Where does the tour end?

The tour ends in Bolzano. Buses are available from here back to Verona, Venezia, or Innsbruck airports. Or arrange for a private airport transfer (additional fee) when you book your tour.

Do I need vaccines?

Check with your family doctor.

When should I book a trek in the Dolomites?

Trekking in the Dolomites is extremely popular, and early booking provides a much higher chance of finding a suitable accommodation on the dates you want. During booking, the itinerary may need to be changed to find accommodation.

What's the earliest I can hike in the Dolomites?

Most hikers in the Dolomites don't start until the June. The reason is that there is the possibility of snow remaining on the trail, making this trip more challenging, and in some cases dangerous. In addition, many refugio's don't open until the middle or end of June.

Can I upgrade my accommodation?

This tour is largely staying in mountain huts. There are no other nearby hotels, so the mountain huts are the only option. For many people, staying in a mountain hut is a highlight of the trip, though mountain huts are not for everyone.

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