Self-Guided Dolomites Cinque Torri, Braies & Three Peaks Hiking Tour

Your journey begins with an individual arrival in Cortina d’Ampezzo, a renowned alpine town set amidst the dramatic Dolomite peaks. After reaching your hotel, you have time to settle in and take in the surrounding mountain scenery. The atmosphere is relaxed, offering a gentle introduction to the landscapes you will explore in the coming days.

You may choose to stroll through the town, enjoy the alpine setting, or simply prepare for the hiking adventure ahead. The evening is free to rest and get ready for the first full day on the trails.

The day begins with a transfer to Passo Falzarego, where your hike follows the Alta Via 1 trail toward Rifugio Averau and continues to Passo Giau. Throughout the route, expansive views of the Dolomites unfold, showcasing some of the region’s most striking peaks. The trail leads onward to the iconic Cinque Torri, a distinctive rock formation known for its unique shape.

The landscape is varied and scenic, offering a rewarding start to the hiking experience. For those seeking a shorter option, a chairlift is available near the end of the stage.

After breakfast, a transfer takes you to Rifugio Ra Stua, the starting point for today’s hike. The trail gradually ascends toward Seekofel Hut, where you can pause and enjoy traditional local dishes in a peaceful alpine setting. Continuing across the Ofenscharte saddle, the route follows the Alta Via 1 through scenic mountain terrain.

The highlight of the day is the arrival at Lake Braies, known for its crystal-clear waters and striking reflections of surrounding peaks. The day combines varied landscapes with a rewarding destination.

Today’s route leads from Braies to the Plätzwiese plateau, a well-known hiking area celebrated for its diverse flora and scenic mountain lakes. Surrounded by peaks such as Hohe Gaisl and the Kreuzkofel Group, the landscape feels open and expansive. From here, the trail continues toward Helltal via Strudelkopf, offering exceptional views of the Three Peaks, Tofana, and Monte Cristallo.

The day is rich in panoramic scenery, with changing perspectives as you move through alpine meadows and higher terrain before descending into Höhlensteintal.

The hike begins across the Rienzböden and through the Rienz Valley, gradually ascending toward the famous Three Peaks, one of the most recognized landmarks in the Dolomites. As part of a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, the setting is both dramatic and memorable. The route continues to the Dreizinnen Hut, offering sweeping alpine views.

From there, the trail passes beneath Mount Paterno, a historically significant site from World War I, before descending into the scenic Fischlein Valley and continuing to Sexten.

Today features a circular hike around Sexten, beginning through peaceful forests and open meadows. The trail gradually climbs toward Klammbachalm, a traditional alpine hut known for its local South Tyrolean cuisine. The surrounding landscape offers wide views and a tranquil atmosphere.

For those seeking a more demanding route, an alternative along the Carnic High Trail is available, starting with a cable car ascent to the Helm. This route follows a scenic ridge, occasionally crossing between Italy and Austria, with several mountain huts along the way.

A morning transfer brings you to Ospitale, where the day’s hike begins. The route passes through Val Padeon, offering scenic views and a varied alpine landscape. The trail descends toward Rio Gere, with an option to shorten the descent using a chairlift. From here, you continue along the Dolomieu Trail toward Faloria.

The final stretch includes a cable car descent back to Cortina, marking the end of the hiking journey. There is also an option to take a bus for part of the route if preferred.

Your tour concludes in Cortina d’Ampezzo. After breakfast, you may either begin your onward journey or choose to extend your stay in the region. The experience comes to a close with lasting impressions of alpine landscapes, iconic peaks, and well-planned hiking routes.

With its combination of natural beauty and accessible trails, the journey offers a comprehensive introduction to the Dolomites. Departure arrangements are made independently, allowing flexibility based on your travel plans.