Hike Part I of the Dolomites’ Sentiero Italia

Arrive in Val Gardena / Gröden (1,563m / 5,128’) independently and proceed to check into your hotel. Private transfer is available upon request. Nestled among the mountains of Sassolungo, Puez, and the Sella Massif, Val Gardena is renowned for its fantastic skiing and rock-climbing opportunities, as well as for its rich woodcarving tradition, which dates back to the early 17th century. Home to three very different cultures - Italian, Austrian, and the native Ladin - most signage in Val Gardena is also written in three languages: Italian, German, and Ladin! Depending on your arrival time, you may want to head out for a hike or explore one of the three most picturesque villages in Val Gardena - Santa Cristina, Ortisei, or Selva Gardena.

Your journey begins in the heart of the Dolomites with a steady ascent from the valley floor to the high Sciliar plateau. The trail carries you through tranquil forests and open alpine meadows, before rising above the tree line into a wide, dramatic landscape. The air grows crisp, marmots whistle among the rocks, and each step brings you closer to the towering cliffs of the Sciliar. By day’s end, you’ll arrive at a welcoming rifugio on the plateau, where sweeping views extend across the surrounding peaks and valleys.
(~4,5 hours hiking 6,2km / 3,8 miles, 1,354m / 4,442' ascent, 106m / 348' descent.)

Today’s hike follows a spectacular ridge across the Alpe di Siusi, with wide-open panoramas and ever-changing views of the Dolomites. Along the way, you’ll cross meadows alive with wildflowers and grazing cows, and with a bit of luck you may spot marmots among the rocks or birds of prey circling overhead. The route continues along the Siusi ridge to a mountain pass, before descending to the rifugio that will host you for the night, set beneath the impressive Sassolungo–Sassopiatto group.
(~5 hours hiking 12 km / 7,4 miles, 493m / 1,617' ascent, 632m / 2,072' descent.)

Indulge in a hearty alpine breakfast before departing this morning. Today’s hike takes you on a spectacular circuit around the mighty Sassopiatto and Sassolungo, two of the Dolomites’ most iconic mountains. Along the way, you’ll pass cozy mountain huts, walk beneath towering rock walls, and explore the magical “City of Stones,” where huge boulders lie scattered in a dramatic alpine landscape. The views stretch endlessly across Val Gardena and Val di Fassa, making this stage a perfect blend of natural beauty, geological wonder, and cultural charm. Your day ends at Passo Sella (2,218m / 7,275'), surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Private transfer to your hotel.
(~4-5 hours hiking, 11,8 km / 7,3 miles, 515m / 1,690' ascent, 646m / 2,119' descent.)

Today’s journey follows one of the most scenic ridges in the Dolomites: Viel del Pan, a balcony path with constant, dramatic views of Marmolada, the ‘Queen of the Dolomites.’ Once a trade route for flour merchants and later part of the frontline in World War I, today it is both a trail of beauty and remembrance. As you walk along the ridge, you’ll enjoy sweeping panoramas, the turquoise waters of Lake Fedaia below, and the unique atmosphere of a path where history and legend meet the greatness  of the mountains. Your hike ends with a descent to a picturesque village in the heart of the Dolomites. Savor a delicious dinner at your hotel, the perfect way to celebrate the end of your hike.
(~4-5 hours hiking, 10,7km / 6,6 miles, 219m / 719' ascent, 989m / 3,245' descent.)

Breakfast and departure at your discretion (private transfer available on request).