Trail Running the Alta Via n.1 of the Dolomites

Arrive in Cortina d'Ampezzo (1,224m / 4,016') and check into your hotel (private transfer available on request). Cortina d'Ampezzo is a charming alpine resort town surrounded by stunning peaks, uniquely sheltered from the cold winds of the north, giving it a pleasantly mild climate that tourists can enjoy year-round. Host to the 1956 Winter Olympics, Cortina enjoys a reputation for great skiing in winter and, in the summer, attracts hikers and climbers who challenge the rocky faces of the nearby mountains. This chic alpine town offers many year-round social activities, shopping, and fine dining.

In the afternoon (depending on your arrival time) meet with a Dolomite Mountains representative for a trip briefing and orientation.

The Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Reserve comprises an area of approximately 25,453 hectares (62,069 acres). Clusters of old log-built farmsteads adorn the mountainsides called Viles. They are a typical feature of the Ladin-speaking valleys. These tiny communities were once self-sufficient, with communal outbuildings and baking ovens. The Fanes-Sennes-Braies High Plateau is a popular hiking area with a typical karstic limestone landscape characterized by caves, fissures, underground streams, and small lakes. Rugged rocks eroded by wind and weather rise in all directions. Today's run to the Alpe di Sennes uplands entails a good range of scenery and habitats, home to veritable hordes of ibex, chamois, roe deer, and marmots. Grandiose Dolomite groups headed by the Croda Rossa are foremost features, their lower flanks cloaked by flourishing woods of a healthy mix of evergreen conifer and deciduous species.
(Run ~ 15,3 km / 9,5 miles, 850m / 2,789' ascent and descent.)

Today, traverse the stunning Altopiano di Fanes to the Lagazuoi Massif. As you run, be awed by the breathtaking panoramas of the Western Dolomites and the Marmolada Massif (3,342m / 10,964'), also known as the "Queen of the Dolomites". This section of your adventure boasts a magnificent high meadow and karst formations, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere with cows grazing in the background. Along the way, you'll discover ruins from the First World War and finally reach your rifugio for the night, one of the Dolomites' most elevated mountain inns. Its spacious deck is renowned for its amazing views of the region's heart, now part of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site. Duffel bag transfer at the rifugio.
(Run ~ 18,8 km / 11,6 miles, 1,710m / 5,610' ascent, 430m / 1,411' descent.)

Today's stage of Alta Via 1 is of great interest for both the spectacular mountains around and the abundance of reminders of the terrible years of WWI due to the vicinity of the former border between the long-dismantled Hapsburg Empire and Italy.
Run a memorable traverse below the awesome Tofana di Rozes to Passo Falzarego. Soon, the terrain becomes rockier, with the occasional grass and wildflower patch, including gentians and pretty pink thrift. You'll experience outstanding views back across Passo Falzarego of Lagazuoi, Tofana, and southwest to the grassy slopes of the Livinallongo Valley. As you continue on your journey, the Pelmo (3,168m / 10,394') comes into view and is incredibly close. At this range, it's easy to understand why it was dubbed 'Throne of the Gods.'
Reach your hotel/rifugio, where you will enjoy a good nights' sleep. Your duffel bag awaits here. 
(Run ~ 19,1 km / 11,8 miles, 760m / 2,493' ascent, 1,080m / 3,543' descent.)

Your adventure today is an immersive experience in the beauty of nature. The trail ahead is a perfect blend of lush forests, breathtaking meadows, and some rugged terrain that will offer you stunning views of our beloved Dolomites. Get ready to experience a day like no other, filled with awe-inspiring sights and enchanting scenery that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. You'll run under the famous Monte Civetta (3,220m / 10,564'), one of the most impressive Dolomite formations. Shaped like an enormous trident and linked to a set of organ pipes, it rises majestically between the deep-cut Cordevole River valley and the smiling pasture of Val Zoldana. Look over at the towering west face of Monte Civetta. This "wall of walls" extends for over 6 km / 4 miles! Enjoy lunch perched on the mountaintop, looking out at the Val Civetta, down the Alleghe Valley, and west to the Marmolada Glacier, a truly memorable moment.
As you journey onwards, the awe-inspiring Moiazza Sud comes into view, leaving you breathless with its sheer beauty. Finally, you'll reach your ultimate destination, where a private transfer will take you back to Cortina.
(Run ~ 27 km / 16,7 miles, 1,500m / 4,921' ascent, 1,670m / 5,479' descent.)

After breakfast departure at your discretion (private transfer available on request).