length
11 Days
difficulty
Strenuous
trip cost
From $5995 pp
Nature Immersion
Cultural Interest
Overview
Dolomites Traverse
Witness the grandeur of the Dolomites on this 11-day itinerary that provides the support and valuable interpretation of an experienced guide, comfortable accommodation and fabulous local food. Each day will captivate your imagination as you trek through forests, meadows, lush alpine pastures, past emerald lakes and jagged peaks.
Providing inspiration to artists and trekkers alike, this region will astound you with its wild beauty of varied terrain and scenery. You will begin to understand why this striking pink-grey mountain range is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
On our Dolomites Traverse you’ll journey from east to west, passing through three provinces (one more than the 8-day Circuit Trek). The ascents and descents are the same as the Circuit. There is a rest day in San Cassiano and fewer transfers on the Traverse (bar a few cable car trips). With more days in total, there are more opportunities to experience cultural experiences such as local museums and churches, as well as mixing it up with cycling and spa time.
Reviews
What our clients say
Customer Testimonials
What a wonderful trek! It was everything we hoped it would be. Spectacular scenery, fantastic food, accommodation, guide and great group of enthusiastic fellow trekkers.
Michele McCarthy, St Ives (NSW) – September 2023
Customer Testimonials
The whole trek was a wonderful experience. Our guide, Dave Barber, did an awesome job in making this a trip of a lifetime. Very professional – making sure all the logistics were spot on everyday as well as being knowledgeable about the history and uniqueness of where we trekked. He also made sure we were all challenged with the pace but had fun along the way.
Cornelia Mckee, Karalee (QLD) – July 2019
Customer Testimonials
I had high expectations for this trip which were amazingly exceeded. The scenery was so much more spectacular in real life than any photos could try to convey. The walk was challenging but the rewards more than outweighed the effort. Can’t speak highly enough of our guide Diane. She was just so knowledgeable and helpful and engaging with each and everyone of us. The enjoyment I got from this trip was, in a large part, due to her. The hotels and Rifugios we stayed at were also wonderful. This was my second trip with RAW Travel as a solo traveller. As with the first, everything went so enjoyably smoothly without a single hitch. I enjoyed it so much that I’m sure a third trip with RAW Travel is not far away!
Stephen Youla, Pascoe Vale South (VIC) – July 2019
Customer Testimonials
The itinerary was amazing. Every day was very different. Different landscapes, accommodations, tracks. Our guide was knowledgeable and helpful in every way. I would absolutely recommend this hike to everyone. Truly unique.
Joylene Cooke, Sorrento (WA) – July 2019
Customer Testimonials
Loved my Dolomites trip. The scenery was spectacular. The Dolomites are overwhelmingly majestic, and it was an amazing place to trek. Our guide, Diane, ensured that the trip was flawlessly organised. All I had to do was enjoy! Great people. Great accommodation and food. Great experience.
Angela Maltby, Te Puke (New Zealand) – June 2019
Customer Testimonials
Exceptional trip in every way – with Diane absolutely superb in looking after all the needs of every group member and being such an excellent guide.
Stuart Spalding, Maleny (QLD) – June 2019
Customer Testimonials
The scenery was amazing and each day offered different experiences including natural beauty, physical challenge and culture. David Barber was an excellent guide who was quick to assist or guide people through difficult sections as well as catering for different desires and limitations. The overnight stay at Fodara Vedla was simply stunning and a great experience including Austrian folk music, venison goulash and apple strudel. Overall, the food provided by the hosts was just incredible and a cultural experience on its own. Loved the whole trip and would recommend to anyone interested in an active holiday.
Andrew Perkins, Paddington (QLD) – September 2018
Customer Testimonials
The Dolomites walk was really good. It is such an amazing landscape. And Diane is a great guide. She really knows what she’s doing. She was very conscious of how each walker was going and kept an appropriate pace and eye on things. The accommodation, meals, transfers and the overall itinerary worked really well. I’ve now done several guided multi-day walks both in Australia and overseas and Diane is certainly the best guide I have come across. Thanks for a really good trip!
CB (NSW) – September 2018
Customer Testimonials
Our guide Diane was so passionate about the Dolomites and a seriously experienced mountaineering guide. She gave us the most incredible experience and lasting memories of this beautiful area by choosing daily hikes that provided jaw-dropping scenery plus lots of fun and adventure. The hiking was physically challenging but our group worked well together and encouraged each other when it got tough and Diane was always there for each of us. I would go back in a heartbeat and do it all again! Just loved this trip!
Margaret Jones, Hawthorn East (VIC) – July 2018
Customer Testimonials
Our guide Diane was so passionate about the Dolomites and a seriously experienced mountaineering guide. She gave us the most incredible experience and lasting memories of this beautiful area by choosing daily hikes that provided jaw-dropping scenery plus lots of fun and adventure. The hiking was physically challenging but our group worked well together and encouraged each other when it got tough and Diane was always there for each of us. I would go back in a heartbeat and do it all again! Just loved this trip!
Margaret Jones, Hawthorn East (VIC) – July 2018
Customer Testimonials
Thanks RAW Travel for an exceptionally enjoyable tour of the Dolomites. You have a special treasure in Diane McGuinness; we found her passionate about the Circuit Trek that she has created. Diane made sure everyone was looked after, right down to the tiniest detail. She was supportive and understanding during the times on the trail when I felt anxious. This happened a few times when crossing snow on the trail and some high points that, in my opinion, were “hairy”. Diane was by my side on those occasions and I appreciate the care she took with Peter and me during those times. We also give 10/10 for accommodation and lunch stops. Our favourite was the Refuge de Fodara after a big day ascending to our overnight accommodation on Day 4, although we loved all of the hospitality provided during our 8 days Dolomites Circuit.
Tina & Peter Wintour, Mermaid Waters (QLD), June 2018
Customer Testimonials
A fantastic experience! The itinerary was brilliantly organised so we could experience varying terrains in these amazing mountains and stay in comfortable refuges/family hotels with great local food; and our guide was extremely professional, knowledgeable, flexible, caring and great company.
Lyndenanne Dziedzic, NSW – July 2016
Customer Testimonials
This is the second RAW Travel trek we have been on and again it is an adventure that we shall always remember. The trek was very carefully planned to provide a variety of experiences including different terrain, scenery, top quality food, hospitality and accommodation. Our leader was fantastic not only was Dianne fluent in Italian but her knowledge of the area was outstanding and she could adjust each day as the weather dictated. This trek was a little more difficult than the TMB, being steeper ascents and descents and stonier underfoot but the challenge was so worth it. The mountain scenery in the Dolomites is as spectacular as you can get and this trek is designed to provide you with a taster from high meadows, rocky outcrops to traversing across well trodden scree trials.
Frances Rogers, Fremantle (WA) – June 2016
Highlights
Get Ready For
- Journey from east to west, passing through three provinces
- Cross the mighty Sciliar Plateau
- Two refuge stays in magnificent surroundings, including a true high mountain experience at 2450m
- Magnificent balcony views of the Marmolada (the highest mountain in the Dolomites)
- Free day in the delightful village of San Cassiano
- Fine Italian hospitality and local specialities
- Expert International Mountain Leader
- Mix up your trekking with cycling and spa time
On the trail
What it's like underfoot
The trails on the Dolomites can be narrow, steep and quite exposed in sections. Dizzying heights and steep slopes are a feature of the walks in this area. The Dolomites are not suitable for people who experience vertigo. The terrain is often uneven, rough, rocky and hard underfoot. Each day you will be trekking distances from 16–24km. Occasionally your guide will take a different route because of weather, group fitness or trail closure. Please ensure that you are fit enough to comfortably trek long days, including ascents and descents of 1000m+. Speak to our Destination Expert if you have any concerns about your ability to undertake this trek.
Itinerary
Daily details
This itinerary is subject to change due to trail closure, inclement weather, accommodation availability or other reasons unforeseen to us at the time you make your booking. When making these changes we always have your safety and welfare in mind to ensure a positive and enjoyable experience is maintained throughout your trip with us. Thank you for your understanding.
Arrive today in the Boite River Valley and the town of San Vito di Cadore. There is a welcome meeting scheduled with your trek leader at 6pm at the hotel. Before meeting with your trek leader the afternoon is free for you to explore the town and its amazing mountain surrounds. We will enjoy our first dinner together after the briefing.
Your first night may instead be in the nearby town of Calalzo di Cadore. This will be confirmed in your final documents.
Meals: D
After a hearty Breakfast we ascend steeply through forests to emerge at the magical spot of Croda da Lago, with its pretty little lake below towering rock walls. Then we have a lovely 30 minute contouring walk to arrive at a stunning view point overlooking Cortina d’Ampezzo far below. Finally, we descend to Pocol and our hotel for the night.
Ascent 1100m / descent 750m
Meals: B, L, D
Today our route takes us via Forcella Averau and the Cinque Torri to our destination. We start with a short bus journey and will explore the WWI trenches and learn about the history that took place here. Between 1915 and 1918, the Austro-Hungarian and Italian armies fought many a bloody battle within these mountains during what was also known as the Great War. The soldiers endured severe weather conditions, bitter cold and the risk of avalanches while posted in the Dolomites.
Our accomodation tonight is a simple style Hotel and has shared bathrooms (shared between 4 rooms). It is comfortable, with great views of the mountains and well located for our itinerary, enabling us to walk out from the hotel the following day.
Ascent 500m / descent 1000m
Meals: B, L, D
Today we ascend to Passo Posporcora on a delightful switchback trail through woods, then descend past the impressive limestone gorges of Travenanzes and Ponte Outo. There is a stunning view down into the gorges and the rushing turquoise water from Ponte Outo. Then we ascend through alpine meadows, with alternating easy and steeper sections, until finally we reach a plateau and our lovely family-run refuge,
Accommodation is in a remote location and may require a triple or quad share & a shared bathroom. Luggage transfers are also not included on this day so you will need to carry a spare set of base layer clothes and basic toiletries for the night.
Ascent 1050m / descent 400m
Meals: B, L, D
Crossing high Alpine meadows and rocky tracks, we descend to Pederu in the heart of the nature park and then ascend, past traditional farm buildings, to a mountain pass where we can take our picnic lunch in a field of edelweiss encircled by towering limestone massifs. Then the trail leads south and downhill, steeply in parts, to Alta Badia and the delightful small town of San Cassiano. You will be able to enjoy the typical Tyrolean hospitality and food at our lovely Pension Steinrosl which will be our home for two nights.
800m ascent, 1200m descent.
Meals: B, L, D
A welcome rest day in this picturesque little town. Hire mountain bikes and follow the local trails, take the Piz Sorega cable car for magnificent views, options for additional walks or possible via ferrata excursions. In the evening relax in the hotel’s spa/wellness centre.
NB – Lunch & Dinner are not included tonight.
Meals: B
A short bus transfer this morning (20 minutes) then we ascend to the north flank of the Settsass mountain, for stunning views towards the Austrian Alps. After a rocky traverse and some tantalising glimpses of the Marmolada to the south, we then descend through alpine meadows and contour to Pralongia. After a well-earned afternoon coffee option, we descend to the mountain village of Arabba.
Ascent 500m, descent 950m
Meals: B,L,D
A big ascent from Arabba, via a little-known and very beautiful trail, to the summit of Pizac. Then onwards to Passo Portovescovo for stunning views across the valley to the Marmolada (highest mountain in the Dolomites, 3343m). Then follow the famous Via del Pan, high-level contouring path to Pecol, with the Marmolada on our left-hand side all the time. Descend from Pecol into Canazei by cable car, to give us time to explore this charming town.
Ascent 1000m, descent 650m.
Meals: B, L
NB – dinner is not included tonight. There are many dining options including an excellent local restaurant where you can enjoy a pizza or pasta
We start today’s hike by ascending through small hamlets and woodland, then steeply up through open mountain pastures, to Col Rodella at the foot of the Sassolungo massif. Then we have a delightful contouring path around the Sassolungo and Sassopiatto mountains, followed by more contouring, this time through more gentle rolling scenery, with alpine pastures below us to both sides. We end the day by climbing up, through impressive rocky scenery, to our overnight refuge perched high in the mountains with stunning views. This is an excellent place to view the famous Dolomites sunset.
Accommodation is in a remote location and will be a triple or quad share & a shared bathroom. Luggage transfers are also not included on this day so you will need to carry a spare set of base layer clothes and basic toiletries for the night. Tonight’s refuge is a true mountain refuge, accessible only on foot and perched at 2500m and rooms are simpler than anywhere else on the trip.
Ascent approx. 1400m, descent approx 300m
Meals: B, L, D
We start on a beautiful traversing path, with fabulous views down into the wild gorge below, before ascending to the Sciliar Plateau and then a long, easy walk across the plateau to a quick coffee stop at Rifugio Bolzano. From here it’s a quick 10-minute push to Monte Pez, the summit of the Sciliar and the highest point of our trek. Then we descend steeply from the mighty Sciliar massif, cross meadows and finally descend to the village of Compatsch. We end our hike here, with a cable-car descent to Siusi and then a 40-minute bus ride into the centre of the historic capital of the South Tyrol, Bolzano.
Ascent approx. 300m, descent approx. 1000m
Meals: B, L
**Please note that dinner on the final night is at your own expense. Your guide will make a booking for your group at our favourite eating spot in Bolzano if you would like to have a celebratory dinner with your fellow trekkers.
There are many things to see and do in Bolzano, notably the South Tyrol Archaeological Museum which is home to Otzi, the famous Neolithic man whose exceptionally well-preserved corpse was found in the glacier ice.
Meals: B
Map
Explore
San vito di Cadore
The mountain town of San Vito di Cadore is nestled at the foot of majestic peaks in a broad green valley, just 11km from Cortina d’Ampezzo. It is an ideal jumping-off point for trekking in the Dolomites.
CLICK ON A PIN TO REVEAL INFORMATION ABOUT THAT LOCATION
Croda da Lago
Situated a few kilometres southwest of Cortina d’Ampezzo, the jagged peaks of the Croda da Lago mountain range (2715m) are an iconic feature of the Dolomites. There is a pretty little lake below the towering rock walls.
Cortina d’Ampezzo
Surrounded by towering peaks, including the iconic Tofane, Cristallo, and Cinque Torri, this bustling town in the heart of the Dolomites is a major hub for locals and visitors and the perfect place to enjoy delicious Italian coffee and scrumptious strudel before another big trekking day. Its charming pedestrian streets are perfect for leisurely strolls, and the historic center features picturesque churches and charming squares.
Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park
The Fanes Dolomites is home to fascinating Ladin legends as well as stunning scenery – shady larch forests, magnificent gorges with crystal-clear blue water, and views of the stark limestone peaks. As you are now in South Tyrol you will notice a more Austrian influence, be it in the lederhosen and traditional outfits of the staff or the goulash and apple strudel at dinner. As well as the excellent Italian wines you can now enjoy a Tyrolean beer!
Rifugio Fodara Vedla
Nestled in a vast green basin in the heart of Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park, this authentic high mountain hut (1980m) is a family-run gem. The setting offers stunning views of jagged peaks and panoramas, and the meals here are outstanding – crispy salads from the rifugio’s garden, handmade pasta dishes and Tyrolean specialties.
San Cassiano
This friendly, secluded cosmopolitan mountain village is known for its Michelin-starred restaurants, stunning chalets and glorious sunshine. It offers a picture-perfect Italian Alps experience with fairytale vistas of the toothed peaks of the Dolomites.
Arabba
This tiny and charming village nestled within the Fodom valley at the base of the imposing Sella massif offers views of some of the most beautiful and breathtaking peaks of the Dolomites. Arabba is home to many of the ancient Ladin traditions that make the Dolomites so unique and appealing.
Canazei
Canazei is one of the treasures of the province of Trento, located in a magnificent, lush hollow on the northern border of Val di Fassa. Its excellent location, history and long tradition of hospitality have made it one of the most famous destinations in the Dolomites.
Rifugio Tierser Alpl
The outstanding refuge Tierser Alpl is situated on the saddle of the same name. It is perched high in the mountains and is an excellent place to view the famous Dolomite sunset. Max Aichner, a mountain guide from Tiers, realised his idea of building his own refuge 50 years ago. Over the years, the refuge has been adapted to the needs of the times, but its spirit has remained the same.
Bolzano
Austria meets Italy in this town hidden away in the mountainous region of South Tyrol. Don’t miss the 5300-year-old corpse named Ötzi.
Inclusions
What's included?
- 10 nights accommodation in small hotels and mountain rifugios
- Qualified and experienced International Mountain Leader
- Daily meals as outlined above
- Local briefing in San Vito di Cadore
- Private rooms on trek (with the exception of 2 nights in remote areas where multi-share may be required)
- Transportation where needed on the trek
- Luggage transfers on all but two trekking days (where you will stay in remote mountain locations)
- Carbon offset for your trip and a native tree planted for every walker
- Single supplement – ask for a quote if you would like a single room
- Flights and transport to and from the tour
- Travel insurance
- 3 dinners and 1 lunch
- Expenses of a personal nature
Your leaders
International Mountain Leaders
We have our own staff of experienced and qualified International Mountain Leaders. Not only do they know the trek routes exceptionally well but they will excel in looking after you; your safety is our priority in an alpine environment. All our guides are native English speakers, so clear communication is never an issue.
The Food
Italian Specialities
Your day will start with a continental breakfast featuring cereals, yogurt, fresh fruit, bread, spreads, and a selection of tea and coffee. Lunch is a simple yet satisfying picnic-style meal, typically including a fresh baguette with cheese and cured meats, accompanied by a piece of fruit. Dinner is usually a three-course meal. While Italians are renowned for their pizza, pasta, and risotto, with a strong preference for fresh, seasonal, local ingredients, your evening meals may also feature hearty dishes like goulash with polenta or local sausage. Northern Italy offers specialties such as handmade beetroot ravioli, served with melted butter and poppy seeds, as well as spätzle – a type of gnocchi often made with spinach and typically served with bacon, mushrooms, and a touch of cream.
Accommodation
Where you stay
We provide our clients with the most authentic and immersive experience possible, ensuring comfort, hospitality and a true taste of alpine life. You’ll stay in a mix of long-established family run rustic European hotels and mountain rifugios, carefully chosen for their stunning location and spectacular mountain views. Rooms can vary from hotel to hotel or even within the same accommodation. This variety is all part of the unique charm of hiking through the Dolomites, where each night offers a different experience.
Destination Guide
get inspired
Our comprehensive Destination Guide is bursting with inspiration, travel essentials, background information and more! Essential reading to help you plan, prepare and enjoy a memorable trip in the Alps.
European Alps
Dolomites Circular Trek
- Best of the central and eastern Dolomites
- Spectacular Cinque Torri and WWI trenches
- Italian hospitality and local specialities
- Walk with an experienced International Mountain Leader
$4,290.00
Slovenia
Julian Alps and Coast – Slovenia
- Postcard-perfect setting of Lake Bled
- UNESCO-listed Škocjan Caves
- The medieval Venetian port of Piran
- Local wines and delicacies
$4,890.00
European Alps
Tour du Mont Blanc – Highlights
- A condensed version of Europe’s classic mountain hike
- Fully supported by our expert mountain guide
- Jaw-dropping alpine scenery and friendly wildlife encounters
- Culinary specialities and fascinating history
$3,770.00
European Alps
The Mont Blanc Circuit – Tour du Mont Blanc
- Europe’s most classic mountain walk
- Experience spectacular Alpine scenery
- Walk with an experienced English speaking guide
- Trek through three countries: France, Italy and Switzerland
$5,995.00
TRIP date selection
when would you like to travel?
Please select your preferred dates for on-demand trips or select a scheduled date for group departures. If you have booked a self-guided trip please understand that because your trip date is on demand and we must check availability of all properties on your chosen dates before it can be fully confirmed