TRAIL RUNNING IN THE DOLOMITE MOUNTAINS

Experience the Dolomite Mountains of the Italian Alps in this running tour through the Alta Via N.1 trail. Through winding trails, rounded mountain tops, and steep traverses, encounter all the terrain the Dolomites have to offer. Travel by foot through the breathtaking scenery, stopping from hut to hut to reenergize and appreciate the landscapes you’re exploring. Stay in the best rifugios on the mountain, enjoying private accommodations each night, or book custom, luxury accommodations. Optional trip extension is available to visit even more of beautiful Italy.

Itinerary Details Trail Running the Alta Via N.1 of the Dolomites Getaway

Overview

Experience the “best of the best” of the Dolomite Mountains in this 5 day running excursion. Travel by foot through the Alta Via N.1 trail, enjoying scenic routes, unique terrain, and the influences of Italian and Australian culture. Take in the vistas of more than 80% of the Dolomites- from mountain peaks to lush forests and lakes, it is sure to take your breath away.

Rifugios (dormitory style shelters) throughout the mountains allow you to replenish your energy with a meal, and a few moments rest throughout your day. At night, the rifugios provide private accommodations, authentic cuisine, and a comfortable place to sleep before continuing the running tour. Private luggage transfers are also included, so you can focus on enjoying the amazing scenery.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cortina d’Ampezzo

Private transportation will escort you to Cortina d’ Ampezzo following your airport arrival. Cortina d’Ampezzo is a resort town in Northern Italy renowned for its beautiful mountain views as it sits in the southern region of the Dolomite Mountains. Upon arriving at the hotel you will be introduced to your trail running guide, who will lead you through orientation, a trip briefing, and equipment check. The trail guides are local, English speaking guides to help you through the run; however, self-guided trips are available with cost accommodations as well. You will spend the night in the hotel before departing for the mountain in the morning.

Day 2: Val di Braies, Croda del Becoo, and the Croda Rossa Massif

After breakfast at the hotel the day will start along an alpine lake, directly leading into a climb up a high-altitude plateau, welcoming you to the vistas of Alta Via N.1. From the top you will take a private transfer to Lago di Braies, and begin your run along the lakeshore. Continue your run as you begin to ascend 800m onto a steep, zigzag trail overseeing the Val Foresta peaks.

Begin a 2,327m descent towards Rifugio Biella in the south portion of Croda del Becco. Here, you will have the option to rest and grab a meal before continuing your run. There will be an option to ascend to Croda Del Becco Peak for more views of the pass. The run will then descend once again, leading down to the refugio where you will spend the night. Luggage will be transferred to the rifugio for you, and an authentic dinner will be provided.

This day will cover 16km/1o miles of trail running, 1,420m ascent, and 960m descent.

Day 3: Altopiano di Fanes, Cime di Fanis, and the Lagazuoi Massif

Prepare for the second day of running with breakfast at the rifugio. The run begins downhill towards Rifugio Pederú, then inclines upwards towards Lago di Limo. Begin hiking once reaching Lake Lé Piciodel, where you will pass mountain peaks and pools of water from the Ru d’ Al Plan River. The hike will continue towards Lago di Limo, eventually reaching Rifugio Fanes where another optional rest and meal break will be offered, along with views of the Tofane Mountains.

Begin your run once again as you trek through Altopiano di Fanes to Lagazuoli Massif. You will pass the Western Dolomites, and what is considered the “Queen of Dolomites”, Mt. Marmolada Massif. Travel through meadows and rock structure until reaching Forcella del Lago, where you will begin a steep descent down the mountain. Lake Lao di Lagazuouli will greet you as you finish the run and head to your second rifugio. Luggage will once again be transferred for you.

This trip will cover 14.6km/9 miles in trail running, 1,490m ascent, and 790m descent

Day 4: Cinque Torri Area

Enjoy your last day of running with a scenic, historical route. After breakfast in your rifugio, you will begin your run passing ruins of the first World War. Descend through the lines of trenches made up between the Tofana di Rozes, Forcella Lagazuoi, Forcella Travenanzes, and Forcella Col Dei Bos Mountains. Once passing the memorable ruins, trek through forests till reaching the Cinque Torri Area. Visit the Rifugio Averau for a moment before descending south to Passo Giau. Once you reach the final rifugio, private transportation will take you back to the hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo where you will spend your final night. Luggage will once again be transferred to you, and dinner and breakfast will be offered.

The final days trip covers 17km/10.6 miles in trail running, 1,169m ascent, and 3,836m descent.

Day 5: Departure

The final breakfast at the hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo will be served before private transportation brings you to the airport for your departure home.

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