Dolomites 360° panorama trekking

The tour starts at the Alpe di Rodengo, one of the most beautiful high plateaus in South Tyrol, offering fantastic views not only of the Dolomite peaks, but also of the Zillertal and Stubei Alps, as well as the Venoste mountains. It then continues into the heart of the Puez Odle Nature Park, and ends on Europe's largest plateau-the Seiser Alm.

The stages do not include exposed or dangerous trails, so it is an ideal program for anyone who likes to hike in nature while enjoying the scenery. On request it is possible to shorten the duration of the tour. Especially for families we recommend considering this option.

You can also opt for the PLUS variant, which includes a visit to the Geological Trail and an extra night in a cozy hotel in Siusi allo Sciliar.

Length 7-8 nights

Level  •••+ : Moderate

• Description: Moderate tour, considering its total length and difficulty, especially in the initial stages.
• Features: The route has moderate elevation changes and extended sections. The ascents and descents require endurance and a steady pace to navigate various types of terrain safely.
• Suitable for: Hikers with decent experience, accustomed to mountain trails, ready to tackle challenging sections and elevation gains. Requires good physical preparation.

Arrival in Alta Badia: 

After arriving in Alta Badia and checking into the hotel, it’s time to relax after the journey and enjoy the beautiful mountain atmosphere.

Acclimatization day: Today is dedicated to acclimatization. Relax, take a walk to stretch your legs, and get used to the altitude and the mountains. In the late afternoon/evening, there will be a general briefing about the route with a local expert from Holimites.

1st stage: approx. 12,3 km (7,6 miles) / +1140 m (3740 feet) elevation gain; -95 (312 feet) elevation loss

By public bus we reach Casteldarne, which lies on the foothills of Monghezzo with its namesake castle built in the 12th century. From the village of Casteldarne, following the Rodenecker-Lüsner Alm marker, we begin our ascent through the forest, passing mountain farms. Having reached an altitude of 2000 m, a vast plateau opens up. From here we can see the white peaks of the Zillertal and Stubei group towering to the north and the Dolomites to the south. Alpine farmers maintain the centuries-old tradition of raising livestock and today also offer cozy refreshment spots. This is the ideal place to rest and recharge energy for the next day.

 
2nd stage: approx. 17 km (10,6 miles) / +690 m (2264 feet) e.g.; -395 m (1296 feet) e.l.

Today's hike takes us along a section of the famous high-altitude trail that connects the cities of Munich and Venice. The first part is relatively easy and not particularly challenging. The last few meters to the summit of the Astjoch are a little steeper. At the summit we have a spectacular 360° view. We continue towards the imposing Peitlerkofel. Soon we reach the Glittner Lake and the cosy mountain hut.

3rd stage: approx. 10 km (6,2 miles) / +610 m (2001 feet) e.g.; -430 m (1411 feet) e.l.

Monte Putia will once again be the protagonist today. After breakfast, we set off towards the Erbe Pass. We hike through the mountain meadows at the entrance to the Puez Odle Nature Park and climb up the steep trail to the Forcella di Putia. The effort is repaid with wonderful views of the Dolomite peaks. We now continue to the hut, where we will spend the night.

4th stage: approx. 16,2 km (10 miles) / +595 m (1952 feet) e.g.; -720 m (2362 feet) e.l.

Today's stage is dedicated to the Adolf Munkel Trail (also called the Odle Trail), which runs at the foot of the impressive Odle walls and is one of the most striking Dolomite trails. Here there is not only a marvelous panorama, but also an amazingly rich plant world. The crucifix of Resciesa di Fuori (2282 m) is the highest point of the day. From here we descend to the hut.

5th stage: approx. 16,6 km (10,3 miles) / +670 m (2198 feet) e.g.; -990 m (3248 feet) e.l.

After a rich breakfast we descend down the Val d'Ana to the village of Ortisei. Don't miss a short visit to the village center, as Ortisei is famous for its wood sculptors and artists. On the other side of the valley we ascend to Alpe di Siusi, the largest plateau in Europe. Here we can enjoy the sunset over Sasso Piatto and Sasso Lungo, strolling through flower-filled meadows. Possibility to shorten the stage by using the cable cars.

Departure.

PLUS
6th stage: approx. 9,5 km (5,9 miles) / +125 m (410 feet) e.g.; -960 m (3150 feet) e.l.

From the Alpe di Siusi we descend to the village of Siusi, following the Geological Trail. Settled in 2006, the "Geological Trail" is a path that connects the Alpe di Siusi with the location Bagni di Razzes near Siusi allo Sciliar, crossing the deep gorge carved by the Rio Freddo. The South Tyrol Natural Parks Administration decided to mark the 10 observation points with information boards that interestingly demonstrate the various geological layers, made evident by erosion caused by the watercourse.

Departure.

You have the possibility to do this tour with one of our local tour experts, or, if you prefer, a self-guided tour.

What are the advantages of an escorted tour – a tour with a local expert?

• The local expert knows the trails like the back of his hand, and is also well informed about mountains, fauna and flora, and the many traditions of the Dolomites world. Are you already fascinated by the Dolomite legends?
• The tour is enriched with so much knowledge and information.
 Tales, stories, and high quantity of tips from locals - from people who grew up here and have much more to tell than the best book.
• Luggage transport from hut to hut is also a big plus.
You can hike with a small backpack, because your luggage is already waiting for you in the next hut.
• In addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner are also included. Of course, the local expert knows where you get the best dumplings, the most delicious pasta, and the most fluffy cake.
• The weather, or more specifically, bad weather, is not to be underestimated in the mountains, and our local experts have years of experience with it. In case of thunderstorms, rain or even snowfall (yes, even in August it can snow sometimes), they know exactly what to do.
• The correct estimation of the hiking pace is a skill learned over time. When hiking alone, it’s difficult to keep the same pace. This can result in a serious miscalculation of walking time. The guide know exactly when it’s time to take a break, or to push the group with a chocolate bar.
• The community: during our guided tours, people meet who already have something in common from the beginning: the love for nature and being active. The popularity of our guides with the various hut owners can also turn out to be a great benefit (we just say: Grappa!).

ESCORTED TOURS 2025

• from August 27th to September 03rd - SOLD OUT

KEEP IT PRIVATE

Do you want to reserve one of our guided tours exclusively for you and your group of friends? Choose any tour that you like, contact us and remember to tell us how many people are in your group. We will send you a personalized quote based on the number of participants.

SELF-GUIDED TOURS

from mid June to the beginning of October

If you opt for the self-guided tour, you can choose your preferred travel time. Send us your estimated dates of arrival/departure and we will send you a detailed offer.

ARRIVAL

Holimites is keen to help you plan and organize your arrival and departure.

Together we will find the best travel solution, and we will help you to book bus or train tickets, arrange the car rental, or book a private transfer service.

Here you will find more information about travel to the Dolomites.

We recommend arriving in the Dolomites one/two days prior to your tour departure to acclimatize and adjust to the time change.

 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• Bookings of all accommodations
• Accommodation with breakfast
• Detailed maps and roadbook
• Briefing with a Holimites trail expert
• All taxes
• Special Holimites Souvenir

INCLUDED DURING THE ESCORTED TOURS

• All the services mentioned under “Included in the price”
• Local tour escort at your disposal during the tour
• Transfer as per offer
• Baggage transfer from hotel/hut to hotel/hut (where possible)
• Hiking maps and roadbooks are not included during the escorted tours
• Full board only during the stages (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
• Dinner not included during the last stage

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• Beverages and anything not mentioned under "Included in the price"
• Cancellation insurance

SUPPLEMENTS

• Additional days: starting from € 130,00 per person / night
• Single room: € 160,00 (available only in hotels, not in huts)
• High season (from the end of July to mid-September):  € 150,00 € per person

PLUS* - visit to the Geological Trail and an extra night in a cozy hotel in Siusi allo Sciliar: prices on request

Is some training necessary before participating in this trekking tour?

Yes, it's highly recommended. Sore legs, blisters, or other ailments related to walking after the first stage can possibly ruin the entire week for someone. The hiking programs are suited for people that are already strong walkers that can manage treks with fully packed backpacks.
Participating in a trekking group requires having to keep up a certain pace in order to finish the scheduled stages. If your legs are shutting down or your physical preparedness is constraining the rest of the group to slow down and making group compatibility problematic, your tour escort may decide you need to tone down, leaving the pack. Your alternatives in this case are:
a) to shuttle throughout the day on the service van, each day, to the next hut or
b) to take a shuttle 'bump up' to the last hotel, where you can finish your vacation doing some great day hikes.

Are there minimum skills requested?
It is absolutely necessary to have some trekking experience on mountain trails and exposed sections. A good ability to read maps is a must for self-guided tours.

What happens in the case of bad weather?
Sir Alan Flemming once stated: “There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing”. But, it’s surely possible that bad weather conditions may prohibit our planned tour in some cases. If this happens to
be the case, a phone call to our office from the hut you are staying at is all that’s needed. We will gladly reorganize all of the upcoming stages of your trekking tour so that you can arrive as planned at the end of the
Alta Via; even if you have to take a 1 day break to allow weather conditions to clear up.

What specific clothing do you recommend?
We suggest you always carry a light hydration pack with a few layers such as a light insulation jacket, gloves and a hat. Also, keep in mind that the weather in the mountains can quickly change. If your offer includes baggage transfer, we suggest you to pack some warmer and comfortable clothing, which can be left in your bag that we will transfer for you from hut to hut.

I have some Issues with elevation, is that a problem?
The runs each day are between 1.500 and 2.300 meters altitude (between 4,900 and 7,500 feet). In addition, the huts for the overnight stays are above 2000 meters (6,600 feet) If you have trouble with high elevations,
please consult a doctor or medical professional for their expert opinion before booking this trip.

I want do to a self-guided trekking. Are the trails well marked?
Yes, the trails are well marked, but it‘s important to pay attention and be sure to stay on the correct path. During the briefing a local trail expert will explain you every stage exactly.

The programs on the catalog don‘t match my expectations. Are there alternative offers?
On request, Holimites can customize a program for you. Is the tour too long or the stages to challenging? Do you prefer a different itinerary? Would you like to book some extra days to relax in the hotel or on a mountain hut? Just send us a request and we will do our best to meet your needs.

Should I expect to climb a Via Ferrata?
Our standard programs don't include a Via Ferrata. But gladly we can organize one for you with a certified IFMGA-UIAGM Alpine Guide. There is the opportunity to do the Via Ferrata during a stage or you can add an extra day at the beginning or at the end of your tour.

Overnight stay on the mountain huts...
You will be surprised of how lovely our mountain huts are. However, they have to be considered a rifugio in the mountains and not a hotel. So you won’t find all the luxury features you find in the towns.
In the huts there are blankets and pillows. We suggest to bring sleeping bags inlay with you.
All hotels and huts are well informed about dietary restrictions, like gluten or lactose intolerance. Everywhere you will find a vegetarian or vegan alternative.
Not all huts accept credit cards. So we suggest to bring some cash with you, to pay drinks, snacks or extras which are not included in the offer.

Where can we have lunch during the trekking?

For lunch you can stop in one of the huts to taste some traditional food or you have the possibility to buy a lunch package in the hut where you overnight.

What about dinner?

All the mountain huts where you'll be staying offer dinner service, which you can decide to join on the same day. When you'll stay in a hotel you have the option to dine at the hotel's restaurant or, if you prefer, explore the town to find a restaurant that suits your taste.