A group of hikers in the Dolomites

Hiking the Dolomites with friends - Diamonds in the Rough Guided Dolomites Hike, Italy

Hiking the Dolomites with friends | Gus Cheung

Beside the Tre Cime, The Dolomites, Italy

Trekking in the Dolomites - Diamonds in the Rough Guided Dolomites Hike, Italy

Trekking in the Dolomites | Jaclyn Lofts

Hiking in the stunning Dolomites

Trekking in the Dolomites is one of the great walking experiences of Europe - Diamonds in the Rough Guided Dolomites Hike, Italy

Trekking in the Dolomites is one of the great walking experiences of Europe | Jaclyn Lofts

Enjoying the Views in the Dolomites, Northern Italy - Diamonds in the Rough Guided Dolomites Hike, Italy

Enjoying the Views in the Dolomites, Northern Italy | Patricia Owen

Heading towards the Auronzo Hut in the Dolomites

Diamonds in the Rough Guided Dolomites Hike

Italy

9 Days from

$4780 AUD

Trip Code: SOG10111

View dates to Book

Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Duration

9 Days

Activities

guided alpine walk

Accommodation

6 nights in mountain refuges/gîte-hostels or mountain hotels
2 nights hotel Cortina

Meals

6 Dinners
7 Lunches
8 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading: moderate to challenging
GRADE 4 - Daily guided hikes of around 4-6 hours, between 7 and 19 kms and maximum ascents of 1250 metres per day. Whilst 3 of the days would be considered moderate there are 4 days which involve harder stages and all days will involve steep uphills, descents, and many sections of the trail which require care with loose rock on the trail. There are short stages where chains and cables are there to support hikers. If you suffer from vertigo there are parts of the trail that are quite exposed. The accent is on keeping a steady pace with time to stop and take photos (subject to weather conditions). You will need a good level of fitness and a good hiking pace to participate fully in this adventure. It is considered suitable for hikers with some experience in alpine terrain. If you have no alpine experience, we recommend you participate in a series of hikes of 7-8 hours with lots of uphills and downhills - this will gauge your suitability for this hike. Early in the season (June) you may encounter snow on sections of the trail which may be quite deep and alter the grading of the trip to challenging. At any time during summer, weather conditions may be variable and you should be prepared for all conditions including snow, ice, strong hot sun and extreme winds. Pre trip training should involve a combination of cardio vascular sessions of 45 minutes, 3 to 4 times a week, coupled with endurance hikes of up to 8 hours carrying a daypack. Our staff are happy to provide further advice on pre trip training. Important note: good quality hiking boots with ankle support are a pre-requisite for your participation. Runners or shoes without ankle support are not suitable for the conditions encountered on this hike.
4 / 5
moderate to challenging

Carbon Footprint

26kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(158kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

Trek through the dramatic alpine landscapes of the Dolomites
Discover the region's WWI history
Experience the changing scenery of the Dolomites
Hike among the iconic Tre Cime peaks
Stay in traditional mountain refuges

Overview

Explore the spectacular landscapes of Italy's Dolomites on this guided hut-to-hut hiking adventure. Following scenic mountain trails through the heart of this UNESCO-listed region, you'll traverse alpine meadows, rugged passes and dramatic limestone peaks, including the iconic Tre Cime. Along the way, discover reminders of the area's World War I history, from former military routes to mountain bunkers, while enjoying panoramic views that change with every stage of the journey. Each evening, unwind in traditional mountain refuges and experience the warm hospitality and distinctive alpine culture of the Dolomites.

Itinerary

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On arrival in Cortina you will need to make your way to the group hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Overnight - Hotel De La Poste (or similar)

Meals: Nil

This morning we meet your guide at 9:30am for a group transfer before we hike towards the Tofano peaks, the location of the Dino Buzzati film “Désert des Tartares” (The Desert of the Tartars). Here the trail winds high along a wartime mule track, through rock needles and past bunkers and abandoned refuges. The views down to the Cortina basin and surrounding peaks are fabulous and a great reward for your efforts. After a tough first days ascent we'll relax in our mountain hut, the Rifugio Valparola, and absorb the fine Italian alpine hospitality. Distance: 11km/6.8mi, ascend +845m/2772ft, descent -400m/1312ft

Meals: B,L,D

The hike begins from Rifugio Valparola and descends gently to Rifugio Scotoni, a welcoming stop nestled below towering cliffs. From here, the trail climbs steadily towards a narrow saddle — the Forcella di Lago — where sweeping views of the Dolomites open up. Crossing the pass, you descend to the serene Lago Lagazuoi, its clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks. Continuing through a landscape of waterfalls, dwarf mountain pines and cascading streams crossed by wooden bridges, you may spot evidence of marmots along the way. The scenery gradually changes as you traverse alpine meadows and descend into the valley, reaching your overnight accommodation at Rifugio Pederü. Distance: 19km/11.8mi, ascend +880m/2887ft, descend -1460m/4790ft

Meals: B,L,D

Today’s walk leads you through the heart of the Sennes Nature Park, a pristine alpine landscape renowned for its dramatic geological formations and rich biodiversity. As you ascend through wide mountain pastures and rugged terrain, the striking peaks of Croda Rossa and Croda di Becco rise ahead, creating a spectacular backdrop. This stage offers a truly immersive experience in the untamed beauty of one of the Dolomites’ most legendary valleys. Overnight Biella Hütte. Distance: 15km/9.3mi, ascend +1050m/3445ft, descend -600m/1968ft,

Meals: B,L,D

The eastern Dolomites offer more fabulous views as we ascend to the Rosalmhutte (2200m). The trail takes us beneath the stunning peaks of Rotwand and Croda Rossa. There are some steep sections as we make our way to Durrenstein hutte (2040m). Distance: 14km/8.7mi, ascend +600m/1968ft, descend -890m/2920ft

Meals: B,L,D

A visually stunning hike to the three towers, Tre Cime. We are right on the former Austro-Italian border where fierce fighting took place during WW1. Hiking under Strudelkopf we pass lake Dürrensee. Ascend for overnight accommodation at Drei Zinnen hutte with outstanding views to the towers and surroundings. Distance: 14km/8.7mi, ascend +1186m/3891ft, descend -834m/2736ft

Meals: B,L,D

Today takes us through tunnels, over passes and amongst a stark rocky landscape with 360 degree views of the mountains. The domination of Tre Cime is clear as we circuit these impressive spires. Overnight at Rifugio Lavarredo. Distance: 12km/7.5mi, ascend +788m/2585ft, descend -868m/2847ft

Meals: B,L,D

Our last day of hiking takes us back down into the lush valley and Lake Misurina. In 1927 Aldo Bonacossa made numerous first descents on skis following today’s trail, which has become his namesake. Descending the Bonacossa Dolomites, we are in the shadow of the massive Cadini di Misurina. On arrival at the lake we are transferred back to Cortina for your overnight accommodation. Tonight we head out for a final celbratory meal (own expense) Distance: 7.5km/4.6mi, descend -750m/2460ft Overnight - Hotel De La Poste (or similar)

Meals: B,L

Our Dolomites adventure ends today and you are free to make your travel plans on to your next destination.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

1 scheduled departure between 31 Jul 2027 and 31 Jul 2027.

Departs 31 Jul 2027 – ends 8 Aug 2027 (9 days)

View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners (does not include drinks) – continental breakfasts are served and usually consist of breads, jams, coffee, tea and juices. Lunch is picnic style. Dinner will consist of 2 or 3 courses which include regional specialties
6 nights accommodation in mountain refuges on a dormitory share basis.
2 nights hotel in Cortina on a twin share basis
Luggage transfer by mule, 1 piece maximum 6kg (+ the provided duffle bag) - additional luggage storage available, fees apply, must be pre booked.
Experienced mountain guide
Trip escorted by a Diamonds in the Rough coach

Not included

Travel to and from the start and end point in Cortina
Drinks and snacks
Travel insurance - mandatory
Storage of luggage - fees apply
Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
Items of a personal nature

About your guide

When you join this Diamonds in the Rough Adventures (DITRA) partner trip, you will be accompanied by experienced Diamond coach, and become part of a dedicated team of women, training and hiking together to maximise everybody’s enjoyment and success.

Your Diamond Coach will train and support your team in your preparation. This exclusive DITRA itinerary is tailored to exactly what women want and everything is included.

Knowing who you’re on the trip with ensures that your teammates are perfectly prepared and fit for the adventure (that means you must be, too!). Everyone is expected to commit to Trek Training and the preparation hikes as advised by your coach. A private Trip WhatsApp group will allow you to connect directly with your team as well as give you direct access to your coach. World Expeditions staff are responsible for delivering your extraordinary experience during your adventure. Please direct all pre, mid and post trip feedback to World Expeditions. Your Coach is not the tour operator, guide, navigator or first aider.

Extra trip info

Accommodation Will My Trip Run?FAQs

Rifugio beneath Tre Cime in the Dolomites, Italy | Kate Baker

Mountain Gite

Accommodation is dormitory style in mountain refuges or gîte hostels. There can be up to 15 people in one room in some refuges but less on most nights (around 4-12). In the dorms beds are often bunks, always with separate mattresses. Blankets are provided. Bathrooms and toilets are shared.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.

Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.

Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.

Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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Diamonds in the Rough Guided Dolomites Hike

Trip highlights

Overview

Itinerary

Ready to start your adventure?