Alps: Dolomites Alta Via (Fanes-Sennes-Braies)
€1395
per person
Embark on an unforgettable self-guided hiking adventure along the Alta Via Dolomites, where you’ll immerse yourself in the splendor of a magnificent nature reserve. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes, featuring dramatic limestone mountains, majestic snow-capped peaks, and picturesque alpine pastures and meadows. This unique region, where German is spoken in Italy, also offers an exceptional culinary experience, a diverse array of wildlife including marmots and chamois, and a remarkable abundance of vibrant flowers that bloom in the thousands during the spring and summer seasons.
Your journey begins in the enchanting Plätzwiese, and from there, you’ll traverse the awe-inspiring Fanes-Sennes Nature Reserve, eventually reaching St. Vigilio di Marebbe. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stay in beautifully situated mountain huts, where hearty meals will replenish your energy for the exhilarating hikes ahead. Rest assured, the well-marked trails will provide satisfyingly long walks without being overly strenuous, allowing you to fully appreciate the breathtaking surroundings at a comfortable pace.
Level 3/4/5
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Destination
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Duration8 Days I Level: 3/4/5 (of 5)
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What is includedAccommodation in high altitude guesthouses and mountain lodges (check the Rates&Remarks tab for details), including breakfast, 5x picnic lunches (days 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) and 4x dinners (days 1, 2, 5, 6); Luggage transfers when changing accommodations; Detailed roadbook and maps incl. access to GPS tracks; Emergency hotline;
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What is not includedDrinks and other meals; possible tourist CITY TAX to be paid locally in cash (appr. 2-6 EUR per person per night); drinks and other meals; transfers on the Day 1 and Day 8
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Best periodJune, July, August, September
FROM OUR GALLERY
Self-guided hiking tour in the Dolomites of Alta Via (Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park), Italy
1
Day 1. Arrive in Plätzwiese/ Prato Piazza
Arrival at your hotel in Plätzwiese/Pratopiazza, where this self-guided walking tour commences.
* Easiest arrivals via Innsbruck, Venice and Verona airports. From Innsbruck you can get a train for then get a train to Dobbiaco. We offer private transfers from Dobbiaco to Pratopiazza (contact us for details).
2
Day 2. Roundtrip from Berggasthof Plätzwiese via the Strudelkopf/Stollaplatz (6-8km, 3-3,30hrs, +315m-330m/-315m-330m)
There are several options to choose from on your first official day of independent hiking along the Alta Via. You can climb the Strudelkopf Mountain (2307m) with amazing panoramic views of the iconic Drei Zinnen (The Three Peaks). Another option is to explore the scenic Stollaplatz and Stolla-Alm. Or, if you are feeling energized, you can actually do both, as both walks are relatively short.
3
Day 3. Walk from Plätzwiese to Sennes (17-20km, 6-6,30hrs, +985m/-865m)
Our self-guided walking tour takes you through the extraordinary Val dei Canope to Cimabanche. You climb through Val de Gotres towards the meadow plateau of Forcella Lerosa. A steep descent through a pleasant forest then leads you to the starting point of the final climb for the day, through the beautiful Val Salata towards Sennes where the next overnight will be. Sennes is in the heart of the Dolomites Nature Park and there are some stunning views from your lodge towards far-reaching view over some of the most beautiful peaks in the Dolomites.
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Day 4. Roundtrip from Rifugio Sennes via the Sennes Plateau (8km, 3hrs, +345m/-345m)
Today's itinerary of this independent hiking tour in the Italian Dolomites offers a picturesque experience as you traverse plateaus and valleys above the tree line, with magnificent mountain views encompassing the surroundings. This relatively short hike can be further enhanced by ascending to the Muntejela de Senes peak, reaching an impressive elevation of 2887m. Once you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas that are sure to leave you in awe.
5
Day 5. Walk from Rifugio Sennes to Rifugio Fanes via Lago de Foses (17km, 6-7hrs, +1160m/-1240m OR shorter option!)
Today's walking route offers a diverse and captivating journey, beginning with the Dolomite Höhenweg/Alta via Dolomiti, where you'll traverse the path at a relatively consistent elevation. As you progress, you'll descend to the enchanting Lago de Foses and continue onwards to the charming Valon Scuro. On the opposite side of the valley, you'll embark on a climb that leads you to the scenic Lago Le Casun, and further ahead lies Fodara Vedla, a picturesque village that serves as an ideal spot for a well-deserved break. Following this, a long and steep descent awaits, leading you to the Pederü hut. From there, you'll embark on the final ascent toward the breathtaking Fanes Plateau.
*In case of bad weather, there is an option to shorten the route by taking the dirt road leading to Rifugio Fodara Vedla, subsequently heading to Rifugio Pederù while bypassing the lakes.
6
Day 6. Roundtrip from Rifugio Fanes via Ju della Crusc and L’Ciaval (14-17km, 6-6,30hrs, +920-1070m/-920-1070m)
Today, you have the option to choose between two all-day hikes. Both options offer unique experiences and stunning views, so consider your preferences for terrain, difficulty level, and desired scenery when making your decision. Option 1 (longer): L'Ciaval Loop via de Ju de la Crusc: This route begins with a steep ascent through a wooded hillside, eventually leading you to the vast, rocky expanse of the Fanes plateau. Upon reaching Ju d'la Crusc, you'll find yourself at the edge of the plateau, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below. If you wish to extend the hike, you have the opportunity to climb up to the L'Ciaval peak, adding an extra challenge and rewarding you with even more stunning vistas. Option 2 (shorter): Fanes Loop via Bivacco alla Pace: This hike starts with a short but steep section that takes you to Limo Lake. From there, the trail transitions into a comfortable walk along an unpaved road, meandering through less picturesque alpine scenery. As you continue, the trail ascends above the tree line leading you to the base of the striking Monte Castello outcrop, where you'll find a small mountain shelter. It's worth noting that parts of the trail near Monte Castello may still have sections of snow, and having walking poles can be beneficial for stability and support.
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Day 7. Walk from Rifugio Fanes to San Vigilio di Marebbe (17km, 6-7hrs, +100m-885m/-920m-1620m)
Descend from the Fanes Plateau to Val di Marebbe via Anthoius Joch, facing a challenging descent over a debris slope. Proceed through Wengen/La Valle on a wide path towards Crusc de Rit, enjoying scenic views. Finally, descend through forests and meadows until reaching San Vigilio di Marebbe - traditional South Tyrolean village on the edges of the Val Badia Valley. Here you spend your last night on this tour.
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Day 8. Departure day
For onward travel, we provide private transfers to Brunico train station and Platzwiese. Please contact us for more information and price offer.
TOUR LOCATION
Price (2026)
1395 Euro per person in twin/dbl room (01/06-02/10)
*Triple rooms for odd number of travelers available upon request (contact us for details).
Single room & Solo Traveler supplement
Single room supplement: N/A (min. group size: 2 pax)
Solo Traveler supplement: N/A (min. group size: 2 pax)
Accommodation
Accommodation in high altitude guesthouses and mountain lodges in private rooms wherever possible (only the first and last night can accommodate that; private bathrooms for the rest nights require extra supplement (subject to availability at all, which is a precedent as per our experience), including breakfast, 5x picnic lunches (days 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) and 4x dinners (days 1, 2, 5, 6). Note that there are just a few private rooms available in the refugios. Once these are sold out (normally already before winter), only dorms remain as an option for accommodation (8-18 beds). Shared shower/WC will be at your disposal in the hallway. Depending on the number of nights in dorms, a certain discount will be applied on your booking. If you stay in dorms, you will need to bring a travel sheet and a towel (blankets and pillows are provided). Sheets and towels are included when staying in private rooms. The huts sell some snacks and candy and it can be handy to take a few energy bars and trail mix from home. Dinner is not included in Sennes and in San Vigilio di Marebbe, but you can find several nice local restaurants. Samples of the inns we would normally book (subject to availability), or similar category: Days 1/2: Plätzwiese/Prato Piazza - Hotel Hohe Gaisl; Days 3/4: Sennes - Rifugio Sennes; Days 5/6: Fanes - Rifugio Fanes Hutte; Day 7: San Vigilio di Marebbe - B&B Villa La Bercia;
Tips
Daily departures between the beginning of June and the beginning of October. Moderate to demanding mountain walks on well-marked paths. Previous experience in mountain walking is recommended as well as an active, healthy general level of fitness and stamina. The paths are well maintained though sometimes stony or steep.
Arrival: By car: Arrive in San Vigilio in Marebbe (San Vigil in Enneberg) and leave the car at the parking area (near the public swimming pool of San Vigilio) for the whole week. It is an unguarded parking area free of charge. By train: Get off in Villabassa/Niederdorf and take the bus to Platzwiese (www.steinertouring.com) By plane: Best airports to use are Innsbruck and Verona (then take a train for Villabassa/Niederdorf). We offer private transfers too (from Dobbiaco to Pratopiazza) - check details with us. Departure: Getting from San Vigil in Enneberg (San Vigilio di Marebbe) to Brunico is normally done by bus to Longega/Zwieschenwasser followed by train for Brunico (www.sii.bz.it).
We offer private transfers too (to Brunico train station and Platzwiese) - check details with us.
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