Trekking the Dolomites Alta Via 1, which covers a distance of over 100 km and around 7000m of ascent and descent, is one of the best ways to experience the fabulous Italian Dolomites. This beautiful mountain range, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, forms one of the most beautiful and distinctive landscapes in the world. There are 18 peaks over 3000 metres, and the rock formations and geology are exceptional, with incredible rock spires and towers, vertical walls and sheer cliffs.
Our trip passes some of the most famous peaks, including the Tofane, the Tre Cime, the Pelmo, the Civetta and the Moiazza, and of course, we can see the Marmolada (the highest peak in the Dolomites) and its glacier from many a view point over the course of the Alta Via 1.
You will also experience the unique culture of the region, which is an interesting mix of Austrian and Italian traditions, food and folklore. The South Tyrol area is known as the Südtirol in German, and as the Alto Adige in Italian, and you will find that every village has both a German and an Italian name.
The trekking can be fairly strenuous, but we follow good quality trails and walk at a steady pace so that we can enjoy the scenery and surroundings. If you are looking to compare it with other treks, it is slightly easier in terms of distance and height gain than the Tour du Mont Blanc, but as we stay in rifugi rather than hotels, we grade both trips at a similar level.
We think that the Dolomites, or the 'Dollies' as they are affectionately known, are a very special place and deserve their reputation as one of the most beautiful places in the world - and should certainly feature on every trekker's bucket list.