Italy Dolomites Hut-to-Hut Trek

Overview
Itinerary
Dates & Prices
Trip Details

Trek hut-to-hut across Italy’s dramatic Dolomites, from the iconic towers of Tre Cime di Lavaredo to the turquoise waters of Lago di Braies, capped with a guided tour of Venice.

Hike through one of Europe’s most iconic alpine landscapes, where towering limestone spires and flower-filled meadows create a spectacular backdrop for a classic hut-to-hut adventure in Italy’s majestic Dolomites. With expert local guides leading the way, you’ll follow historic trails through the heart of northern Italy’s South Tyrol region, trekking beneath the legendary Tre Cime di Lavaredo, traversing high mountain passes, and discovering two protected nature parks within the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each day ends at a traditional mountain rifugio, where these alpine retreats put you right on the trail each morning, serving up authentic Ladin and Tyrolean cuisine alongside front-row views of glaciated peaks like Marmolada, the “Queen of the Dolomites.” Along the way, experience the region’s rich alpine culture and the timeless rhythm of hut-to-hut trekking before trading the mountains for Venice and a private guided tour of Italy’s most captivating city. It’s a journey that brings together spectacular high-alpine trekking, centuries-old mountain traditions, and the unmistakable allure of Italy.

Trip Highlights

Sleep beneath the legendary Tre Cime di Lavaredo at Rifugio Locatelli, a historic hut welcoming hikers since 1883
Hike a stretch of the famed Alta Via 1 through wildflower-strewn alpine pastures to the impossibly turquoise Lago di Braies
Traverse two protected nature parks—Fanes-Senes-Braies and Puez-Odle—with views of Marmolada, the highest peak in the Dolomites
Stay in classic mountain rifugios with trails just steps from your door, dining on South Tyrolean specialties along the way
End your trek with a guided walking tour of Venice’s canals and a night near St. Mark’s Square

The original founders of Sobek on the Zanskar River in India, 2012: George Wendt, Richard Bangs & John Yost — The original founders of Sobek on the Zanskar River in India, 2012:
George Wendt, Richard Bangs & John Yost

OARS and MT Sobek have shared roots dating to the early 70’s, when the two pioneering companies were working side by side to help shape the modern era of global adventure travel. Today, we are proud to showcase a premier collection of world-class international trekking expeditions guided by our Legacy Partner, MT Sobek.

Why Travel with Mt Sobek

Guides: Led by an all-star roster of local guides and veteran expedition leaders—many with decades of field experience—you’ll travel alongside passionate professionals who handle every detail, share local lore, and prioritize safety on every trail.
Expertise: MT Sobek brings deep destination knowledge and more than five decades of global expedition experience to every journey.
Adventure: With small groups and thoughtfully designed itineraries, MT Sobek trips immerse you in the landscapes, cultures, and trails that make each destination extraordinary.

Itinerary at a Glance

We pride ourselves in running a relaxed and flexible schedule. Every Dolomites Hut-to-Hut Trek is different depending upon the group, other trips in the area, and sometimes the weather. The following is a sample of what your MT Sobek trip might be like:

Day 1

Welcome to Italy!

Plan to arrive at Venice Marco Polo Airport by 1:00 PM to meet up with your guide for the drive into the heart of the Dolomites. As the landscape shifts from the Venetian lowlands to forested valleys and towering limestone peaks, you’ll get your first taste of the mountains ahead. Settle into your hotel in the Cortina area, then gather with the group for a trip briefing and an authentic Italian aperitivo, followed by a welcome dinner.

Accommodations: Hotel Serena Cortina
Meals: Dinner
Transportation: 2- to 2-hour 45-minute private transfer

Day 2

Trek Beneath the Tre Cime

Your first hike follows a classic route toward the unmistakable Tre Cime di Lavaredo. From Rifugio Auronzo, the trail ascends past the needle-like spires of the Cadini di Misurina before climbing to Forcella Lavaredo. As you crest the pass, the three enormous limestone towers of Tre Cime burst into view, rising above the landscape at nearly 10,000 feet. From here, continue along the slopes of Monte Paterno, where remnants of World War I still mark the mountainside, before arriving at Rifugio Locatelli. With the Tre Cime as your backdrop, this is a memorable place to spend your first night in the Dolomites.

Accommodation: Antonio Locatelli Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: 4 hours; 5.5 miles with 1,735 feet of elevation gain and 1,475 feet of elevation loss
Transportation: 20 minutes to 1-hour private transfer

Day 3

Cross Strudelkopfsattel Pass into Pratopiazza Valley

Soak in early-morning views of the Tre Cime before setting out on a straightforward trail through the Val Ribon. The trail drops through conifer forest and along sheer limestone walls offering panoramic valley views below, then turns upward again toward Strudelkopfsattel Pass, resting in the shadow of Monte Specie. From the pass, the route opens into the broad Pratopiazza Valley, where rolling alpine meadows contrast with the sheer rock walls surrounding them. Watch for grazing cattle and wildflowers scattered across the pasture as you make your way to tonight’s alpine retreat.

Accommodation: Alpin Natur Hotel Bruckele
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: 6 hours (moderate); 10 miles with 2,625 feet of elevation gain and 3,937 feet of elevation loss
Transportation: 15-minute private transfer

Day 4

Trek to the Turquoise Waters of Lago di Braies

Today’s route traverses some of the Dolomites’ most varied terrain. We’ll cross the open meadows of Pratopiazza before climbing toward Croda Rossa and Gaiselleitte Pass. A narrow mountainside section equipped with chains adds a little adventure as you make your way toward Cavallo Pass, where the views stretch across the surrounding peaks. From here, descend toward Lago di Braies, one of the Dolomites’ most recognizable lakes, its clear turquoise water framed by forest and soaring mountains. After reaching this breathtaking lake, we’ll take a short drive back to the hotel for the evening.

Accommodation: Alpin Natur Hotel Bruckele
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: 6 hours (challenging); 8 miles with 1,640 feet of elevation gain and 3,280 feet of elevation loss
Transportation: 15-minute local bus transfer Ponticello to Pratopiazza, 20-minute private transfer to hotel

Day 5

Follow the Alta Via 1 Through Fanes-Senes-Braies

Our morning begins back at Lago di Braies to begin a full day in the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park. From the lake, follow the trail past the mirror-like waters of Fosses Lake and the quiet alpine basin of Piccolo Lake, where broad meadows and wildflowers fill the landscape beneath the surrounding peaks. The route continues through the Scuro Valley before climbing again toward Fodara Lake and the Fodara Vedla Hut. From here, we’ll cross an expansive and picturesque alpine plateau before tackling a dramatic, steep series of canyon switchbacks descending into Fanes Valley and arriving at our mountain refuge for the night, Pederu Hut.

Accommodation: Pederu Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: 7 hours; 11 miles with 3,280 feet of elevation gain and 4,265 feet of elevation loss
Transportation: 20-minute private transfer to Braies Lake

Day 6

Peak Views from Puez-Odle Nature Park

Today, we’ll leave the Fanes Valley behind and travel to La Villa, where a cable car ride up into the razor-sharp Cir Peaks of Puez-Odle Nature Park will shorten our climb. From the upper station, the trail enters a striking landscape of serrated ridgelines and high alpine terrain. Climb through lush forest toward Gardenacia Hut, then continue along a mountain path to Piza Gherdenacia, where the views open across the surrounding valleys. Descend toward Puez Hut before continuing across the high country toward Gardenacia Pass. Along the way, marvel at the distinctive profile of Marmolada, the highest peak in the Dolomites, along with other impressive peaks rising from the surrounding ranges.

Accommodation: Gardenacia Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: 5.5 hours; 8 miles with 2,430 feet of elevation gain and 3,290 feet of elevation loss
Transportation: 50-minute private transfer, optional 10-minute cable car

Day 7

Leave the Dolomites for Venice

Savor your final morning among the jagged limestone peaks of the Dolomites with an easy descent from Gardenacia through Puez-Odle Nature Park. As the trail drops toward La Villa, the high peaks gradually give way to green valleys, marking the end of your hut-to-hut trek. From here, you’ll transfer to Venice and enjoy lunch in the city before meeting a local guide for a walking tour through its historic center. Follow the canals and narrow streets as you get a glimpse of Venice’s remarkable architecture and centuries of history, then gather for a final celebratory dinner.

Accommodation: Casa Nicolo Priuli
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: 1 hour; 1 mile with 880 feet of elevation loss
Transportation: 3-hour private transfer, optional 10-minute cable car

Day 8

Depart Venice

Enjoy a final breakfast in Venice before a private boat transfer takes you to the airport for your departing flight. We recommend booking a flight departing no earlier than 12:30 p.m.

Meals: Breakfast
Transportation: 30-minute private boat transfer

Meeting Time & Place

Location

Venice, Italy

Meeting time

1:00 p.m.

Return

Anytime after 12:30 p.m. on the last day

Trip Map

Dates & Prices

2027 Departures	Price
July 3 – 10, 17 – 24	$5,995
August 28 – September 4	$5,995
September 11 – 18	$5,995

*Per person based on double occupancy.

BOOK WITH MT SOBEK

Deposit

• $600 per person

Additional Costs

• Travel Insurance (recommended)

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

• $580

Included in Your Trip Cost

Skilled professional guide service
4 nights of hotel accommodations, plus 3 nights in comfortable mountain huts (based on double occupancy)
All meals from dinner on night 1 to breakfast on the last day
Snacks and water between meals
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
All transportation from trip start to end, including airport transfers
Baggage transfers and porterage

Not Included in Your Trip Cost

International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for guides and guide-drivers
Insurance of any kind, including a travel protection plan
Personal expenses

A warm welcome awaits at comfortable boutique hotels and rustic mountain rifugios with spectacular hiking right from your door. These accommodations may be subject to change depending on your date of travel.

Hotels

Hotel Serena Cortina

Just a 15-minute walk from the bustling town center, Hotel Serena Cortina is a classic chalet style property with gorgeous mountain views, established in 1906. Comfortable rooms, many with balconies, are furnished in alpine style and feature views of the town and breathtaking Tofane and Croda da Lago mountains. Immerse yourself in the dramatic landscape and lively culture of the Dolomites.

Alpin Natur Hotel Bruckele

At the foot of Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park, breathtaking mountain views greet hikers outside this classic hotel. Rooms and suites with alpine decor include ensuite baths and balconies with spectacular mountain views. Traditional South Tyrolean specialties are served along with wood-fired pizzas, all organic and locally sourced. Stop for a cappuccino and cake in the cafe bar or a glass of wine in the evening, or head to the Finnish sauna for some relaxation.

Casa Nicolo Priuli

Immerse yourself in the nostalgia of the place, staying in a former 18th-century Venetian house just steps from Saint Mark’s Square. The remodeled interior offers rooms decorated with antique furniture and Murano glass chandeliers as well as plush bedding, modern baths, Wi-Fi and air-conditioning. A delightful garden-themed Victorian style breakfast room and patio greets you each morning during your stay.

Rifugio Mountain Huts

While the staff will prioritize placing our group members together, it’s possible that you may share a room with fellow hikers who are not part of the MT Sobek group. This is part of the experience of hiking in the European Alps and is a great way to meet other adventurers from around the world. Most of the bathrooms at the huts are shared bathrooms.

Antonio Locatelli Hut

This historic and beautifully located hut has been offering hikers and climbers refuge since 1883. Rebuilt multiple times since then, it remains reachable only by foot. Take in the panoramic view of Tre Cime from the large terrace. Accommodation is in shared dormitory-style rooms with shared baths. Tuck in to a hearty meal after your hike and in the morning before you depart for the next leg of your journey.

Pederu Hut

Situated right in the heart of Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park, this wooden refuge is surrounded by a pleasant meadow and dramatic towering cliffs. There are eight simple ensuite guest rooms and shared dormitory accommodation with shared bathrooms. Sample South Tyrolean dishes as well as Mediterranean favorites served in the traditional wooden stube (parlor) with fresh ingredients from their own garden and nearby farms. The perfect stop on the trail, deep in the Dolomites!

Gardenacia Hut

Expect Ladin hospitality within the Puez-Odle Nature Park (also known as Puez-Geisler in German). Hike to a sloping pasture with cows roaming by to find a refuge built in 1937 and renovated in 2009. Woodpaneled rooms have 2, 3, or 4 beds and a sink, and shared bathrooms are located nearby. Dine on the terrace for enchanting views of Alta Badia and mountain sunsets. Relax in the Finnish sauna with views of the Dolomites.

Meals are an integral part of the Dolomites experience, with hearty South Tyrolean and Ladin fare fueling days on the trail. Lunch keeps you going between mountain passes and valleys, with opportunities to refuel at a rifugio or enjoy a trail lunch surrounded by the peaks. At the end of the day, settle in for traditional alpine dishes in cozy mountain huts or regional specialties at your hotel, with plenty of opportunities to linger over a cappuccino, a glass of wine, or an aperitivo as you take in the scenery.

Dietary Restrictions

MT Sobek can accommodate many common dietary restrictions on this trip with advance notice. Let them know about your dietary restrictions and food allergies as soon as possible.

Trekking conditions in the Dolomites are at their prime during July, August, and September, offering clear trails, panoramic vistas, and crisp alpine air. Up along the high mountain passes and rifugios (6,500-7,500 ft), daytime hiking temperatures average in the upper 50s to low 60s, dropping to chilly lows in the 40s once the sun dips behind the limestone peaks. July and August bring lush green pastures, peak wildflower blooms, and long daylight hours, along with brief, classic afternoon mountain showers. September brings the most stable, bluebird skies of the season, crisper mornings, and fewer trail crowds.

Down in Venice—where your trip begins and ends—expect warm, coastal summer days averaging in the 80s in July and August, cooling down to comfortable mid-70s by September.

	Dolomites	Venice
July	60° / 48°F	83° / 66°F
August	61° / 48°F	83° / 66°F
September	53° / 43°F	75° / 58°F

Note: The Dolomites temperatures represent average conditions along high-elevation trail passes and rifugios around 6,500–7,500 ft, but can also be very hot at lower elevations and freezing above 7,000 feet.

How much hiking is done each day?

You should feel comfortable hiking 8 to 11 miles and 4 to 7 hours per day over rocky mountain trails.

Do I need prior hiking experience?

Yes, prior hiking experience is required. Guests should be prepared for long, steep hikes with significant elevation gain and loss.

Do I need a passport or visa for this trip?

A valid passport is required to enter Italy. Most countries require that passports be valid for at least six months beyond the end of your trip and contain at least one blank page for entry stamps. US citizens do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. Non-US citizens should consult their local embassy or consulate to confirm current entry requirements.

What is the group size?

The typical group size for this MT Sobek trip is between 5-16 guests, creating an experience that feels personal, relaxed, and thoughtfully paced. Small group travel allows us to share moments that make a journey truly memorable.

What is the guide-to-guest ratio?

This trip is staffed with one guide for up to eight guests, plus a dedicated driver. An additional guide will be added for larger groups.

Do you recommend travel insurance?

Yes, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for all trips. Travel insurance can help cover trip cancellations or interruptions, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, travel delays, and other unexpected situations.

This trip is operated by MT Sobek and is subject to their terms & conditions.

Deposits & Payments
At time of reservation	$600
95 days prior to trip departure	Balance

Cancellations & Refunds
From time of reservation until 95 days prior to trip departure	$300*
94 to 61 days prior to trip departure	25% of Trip Cost
60 to 46 days prior to trip departure	50% of Trip Cost
45 days or less prior to trip departure	100% of Trip Cost

*Rather than paying the $300 cancellation fee, you may choose to keep your $600 trip deposit on account to use on a future MT Sobek trip when cancelled 125 days or more before departure. Deposits on account must be used within two years.

Transfers

You may transfer one time to another trip without a fee up to 125 days before departure. Requests to transfer from one trip to another within 124 days of departure are subject to the Cancellation Fees outlined above (based on the date you notify us of your wish to transfer). No transfers are allowed on custom or private Departures.

Cancelled Trips

MT Sobek reserves the right to cancel any trip due to inadequate enrollment or other cause that makes the trip unfeasible for us to operate, but will inform you at least 45 days prior to departure. In such a case, a full travel credit toward a future trip or refund of Trip Cost is given, except in those instances such as force majeure or epidemics where prepaid deposits or irrevocable commitments cannot be returned or reversed. In any event, MT Sobek will provide alternative travel dates for a postponed trip. If a refund is sought, only recoverable funds will be provided. MT Sobek is not responsible for additional expenses incurred by members preparing for the trip (e.g. non-refundable Advance Purchase air tickets, visa fees if applicable, clothing, equipment, or medical expenses). Do not purchase your air tickets before speaking with your Adventure Coordinator.

If a trip is cancelled or postponed due to force majeure (war, labor strikes, earthquakes, flooding, epidemic, a major world event adversely affecting international travel patterns, etc.), MT Sobek will provide a travel credit or refund the portion of the trip cost that is recoverable after using good faith efforts to recover payments already advanced to suppliers (hotels, transportation companies, etc.) We will refund the balance as promptly as possible. However, MT Sobek does not guarantee recovery of any or all of the advance payments made, and our use of good faith efforts to recover these payments will not include the institution of any legal proceedings. MT Sobek is not responsible for expenses incurred by trip members in preparing for a cancelled or postponed trip (e.g., non-refundable purchase of air tickets, visa fees, inoculations, equipment, etc.) or for any additional arrangements should the trip member depart prior to the scheduled group departure date.