Days 1-3
Passo Giau / Civetta Massif
From Venice, we head up to the mountains and our chalet-style hotel, the Albergo Passo Giau, spectacularly set in the heart of the Dolomites. With multiple Trip Leaders, we can choose between at least two hiking options most days. One fine choice is a route that circles the regal massif of Monte Pelmo, called the “Doge’s Cap” by patriotic Venetians. Our other hiking trails are in the magnificent Sella Massif, with its summit, Piz Boe (10,400'), the highest walkable point in the Dolomites, and the Civetta Massif, whose famous six-mile-wide north face is known as “the wall of walls.”
Day 4
Rifugio Lagazuoi
We offer a strenuous or a moderate trail option (or even a cable car) to reach the fantastic Rifugio Lagazuoi, our awesomely situated mountain lodge for the night, with its wonderful food and amazing views. Our lunch stop en route at Rifugio Nuvolau offers views of Tofane, Cristallo, and Marmolada (10,965'), the “Queen of the Dolomites.” Sunsets at Lagazuoi are marvelous, with the massive rock pinnacles taking on an extraordinary palette of ever-changing luminous hues.
Days 5-7
Cortina d’Ampezzo / Tofane / Tre Cime di Lavaredo
The famous alpine ski village of Cortina is nestled beneath a grand cirque of Dolomites peaks, from the impressive massif of Monte Pelmo to the rose-tinted spires of Cristallo and Tofane. We hike part of the breathtaking long-distance footpath that traverses the Dolomites from north to south and into a secret valley of lovely wildflowers, crystal-clear springs, and alpine meadows behind the massive 10,500-foot-high Tofane spires. We also hike trails with incredible views of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the three most famous spires of the Dolomites. No matter which hikes we choose, the views are simply out of this world.
Day 8
Venice
Return to Venice Airport for afternoon flights home, or extend your stay in this glorious city.
This is the Itinerary-at-a-Glance. For the complete trip description,
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