Sat in the northern Italian Alps, the Dolomites are a truly breathtaking mountain range that spans the regions of Veneto, Lombardia, Friuli Venezia Giulia, and Trentino.
It’s an amazing place to go if you’re keen for an active adventure, with some of the most incredible hiking trails in the Alps. Here, we offer some top tips on how to make your Dolomites trip a success.
Choose the right trails
There are a range of walking trails in the Dolomites, from moderate to challenging routes – so it’s important to choose hikes that suit your fitness level. If you’re keen to head out hiking but don’t want the hassle of planning your routes every day, you could head on one of the Italy tours of the Dolomites that have an itinerary included.
These self-guided tours provide route notes for each day, with an overview of each hike and detailed instructions. All the research has been done for you – so all you need to do is strap on your walking boots and head out! The tours also include a 24-hour emergency contact number that you can use if needed, giving you peace of mind while exploring.
Think safety first
When hiking in the Dolomites, it’s important to make safety your top priority. Before setting off, check the weather conditions for the day to make sure it’s safe to head out into the mountains. You should make others aware of your plans for the day, giving them information on where you’re heading and what time you expect to be back.
Pack your bag appropriately – making sure you have the right clothing, snacks, water, suncream, and hygiene products. You may also want to take a first aid kit in case of emergencies, a physical map (in case your tech stops working), and a portable phone charger.
Learn key phrases
When heading to the Dolomites, it’s worth learning a few key phrases to help you communicate with the locals as you explore. Basic phrases you may want to memorize include:
- Sì = yes
- Per favore = please
- Grazie = thank you
- Ciao = hello/goodbye
- Buongiorno – good morning
- Arrivederci = goodbye
- Prego = you’re welcome
- Scusi = excuse me
- Parla inglese = do you speak English?
While teaching yourself Italian isn’t a requirement for your trip, it’s useful to know some key phrases when heading out to eat, to the shop, or asking for help/directions.
With clear blue lakes, snow-capped peaks, and lush forests as far as the eye can see, the Dolomites offer some of the most incredible scenery in Italy. And what better way to see it all than hiking along some of the most scenic routes?
By following these tips, you can set yourself up for a truly unforgettable adventure in the Dolomites.
