DOLOMITES ‘26

Alta Via Adventure: Rugged Trails. Refined Rest.

HIKE TO HOTEL

Embark on the VITAL Alta Via Adventure - a three month program designed to transform how you train, think, and move in the mountains. Through specialized endurance and strength training, expert guidance, and a supportive community, you’ll build the confidence and trail competence to take on one of Europe’s most breathtaking routes, the legendary Alta Via 1 in the Dolomites. Together, traverse rugged alpine trails where jagged peaks meet endless sky, rifugio meals spark lasting friendships, and each evening restores you in the comfort of the Dolomites’ finest four-star hotels - because the climb changes everything.

Personalized Preparation

At VITAL, we focus on your current fitness level and customize a training program to ensure you’re fully equipped for the endurance required to tackle your specific adventure. Over three months, we’ll build your confidence and fitness ability, culminating in an immersive adventure featuring three exhilarating days of hiking along some of Italy’s most picturesque trails.

The Vital Difference

Receive professional training, development & resources to empower peak performance, endurance and resilience.

  • Receive a detailed day-by-day fitness progression plan, focusing on building strength and endurance over three months. Train five days a week, with two days dedicated to strength training and three days focused on cardio.

  • Engage in VITAL group training sessions (and hikes) to foster community and motivation as you work towards your goals.

    We will also show you how to track your progress and connect with fellow participants through the VITAL Strava Club.

  • Access a wealth of resources in the Member Hub, including the VITAL Healthy Habits, essential gear recommendations, endurance nutrition tips, and travel planning advice.

    Plus get some kickass gear designed for VITAL teams, ensuring you’re fulling prepared.

  • Content sessions designed to prepare you for your adventure featuring experts in endurance sports nutrition, performance, and the destination.

Join Us!

The Dolomite Adventure is more than just a trip; it’s a chance to challenge yourself physically, connect with nature, and experience the raw beauty of northern Italy.

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Unparalleled Travel Experience

Enjoy stress-free travel with seamless transportation and reliable guidance that ensures a smooth and unforgettable Dolomite experience.

  • We curate exceptional four-star accommodations that embody the elegance and character of the region. Each property is handpicked for its authenticity, comfort, and connection to local culture. VITAL Dolomite based partner ensure personalized service, refined amenities, and inspired regional cuisine. Many hotels feature welcomed spas with saunas and jacuzzis—perfect for restoring body and mind after a rigorous day in the peaks.

  • A VITAL favorite is our private transfer service to and from Venice Marco Polo Airport on the first and last day of your Alta Via Adventure. If you plan to arrive or depart on different days, we’ll share easy options for booking your own transfer.

  • All meals from Day 1 - Day 5 feature the region. In the Dolomites, food is part of the journey. After a day on the trail, we gather around tables where handmade pasta, spätzle, speckknödel, and kaiserschmarren are served with warmth and pride. The same sun and soil that shape the mountains also nourish the grapes -producing reds and whites that reflect the land itself. And prepare for lots of delicious desserts, after lunch, coffee, or dinner! Often a simple slice of strudel or cake, and it might just be the best you have ever had!

  • Our Dolomite guides are seasoned mountain professionals - passionate, knowledgeable, and deeply connected to the terrain they call home. Each is certified through internationally recognized programs such as UIAGM/IFMGA or UIMLA, representing the highest standards in mountain leadership. Beyond their credentials, they’re storytellers, educators, and fellow adventurers—sharing local insight, laughter, and a love for the peaks that makes every day on the trail unforgettable.

Your Stay

Five nights of authentic Alpine comfort across three carefully selected Four-Star mountain hotels. Each property blends traditional Dolomite charm with modern wellness amenities—Alpine-style rooms with mountain-view balconies, spa facilities, and restaurants serving regional South Tyrolean cuisine. Strategically located to minimize transfers while keeping you close to trailheads. All accommodations include breakfast, most dinners, free Wi-Fi, and easy village access for rest days. Warm beds. Real comfort. Zero compromises.

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What to expect

Time on Trail & Distance

Time on Trail: 6-10 hours per day over 4 consecutive days.

Distance and Vertical: Hikers will cover 30-35 miles, with a cumulative vertical elevation change of 8,300 feet. Daily ascents range from 1,951 to 4,323 feet; descents reach up to 3,916 feet on narrow, exposed mountainside trails.

Terrain

A Level II multi-day trek that takes you through awe-inspiring jagged peaks, pushing your endurance to the limit. Expect rugged trails with significant climbs and descents, rocky paths, and steep terrain requiring careful footing, strength, and balance. You're conditioned for four consecutive rigorous days, comfortable with exposure on narrow trails, and prepared for Alpine weather that can shift without warning.

Recommended For

This Level II multi-day trek is for seasoned adventurers with a solid fitness base and some experience hiking challenging trails.

Required three months of progressive training including strength work (squats, step-ups, knee protection exercises), uphill-specific conditioning, and long weekend hikes building to 10+ mile days with elevation gain. Trekking poles required.

Enrollment Process: Fitness questionnaire and required one-on-one call.

Itinerary Highlights

  • DAY 1

    CORTINA D’AMPEZZO  

    Arrive in Cortina D’Ampezzo, The Dolomites

    Transport: Shuttle From Venice Marco Polo Airport to Hotel

    Activities: Team Welcome Dinner

  • DAY 2

    ALTA VIA 1

    Distance: 12.5 km / 7.7 miles

    Hiking time: Approximately 5-7 hours

    Trail Description: Scenic alpine paths climbing toward the stunning lakes. The route continues through high mountain terrain before descending to a Rifugio where you'll traverse picturesque grassy meadows dotted with wildflowers. The day concludes with a descent and a private transfer back to our accommodation.

    Please note: Trail routes may be adjusted due to weather conditions, trail closures, group needs or other unforeseen circumstances. We'll always prioritize your safety while ensuring you experience the best the Dolomites have to offer.

  • DAY 3

    ALTA VIA 1

    Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles

    Hiking time: Approximately 5-6 hours

    Trail Description: We will climb through the heart of Alta Via 1 to Rifugio for lunch. The trail winds through a remarkable landscape of alpine lakes, rounded peaks, and the meandering river. After a gentle climb through high meadows, you'll traverse striking karst rock formations before descending to a welcoming mountain restaurant -the perfect spot to celebrate the day's adventure.

    Please note: Trail routes may be adjusted due to weather conditions, trail closures, group needs, or other unforeseen circumstances. We'll always prioritize your safety while ensuring you experience the best the Dolomites have to offer.

  • DAY 4

    ALTA VIA 2

    Distance: 15.6 km / 9.7 miles

    Hiking time: Approximately 6-7 hours

    Trail Description: Following the renowned Alta Via 2, we'll ascend a dramatic series of switchbacks between the towering spires to reach the Rifugio - an ideal lunch stop with spectacular mountain views.

    After refueling, we'll descend down the mountain paths down to a charming village. A private transfer will return you to your accommodation to rest and reflect on one of the trek's most rewarding days.

    Please note: Trail routes may be adjusted due to weather conditions, trail closures, or other unforeseen circumstances. We'll always prioritize your safety while ensuring you experience the best the Dolomites have to offer.

  • DAY 5

    ALTA VIA 1

    Distance: 10.2 km / 6.3 miles

    Hiking time: Approximately 5-6 hours (plus optional descent)

    We'll traverse the spectacular ridge with sweeping views of the Western Dolomites. The route climbs through a fairytale valley of green pastures before winding through high meadows and striking karst formations.

    You'll encounter the jewel-like lake, its green waters nestled beneath dramatic cliff faces, before continuing your ascent to the Rifugio. From this spectacular vantage point, you'll descend the mountain to the village with our private shuttle waiting.

    Please note: Trail routes may be adjusted due to weather conditions, trail closures, or other unforeseen circumstances. We'll always prioritize your safety while ensuring you experience the best the Dolomites have to offer.

  • DAY 6

    CORTINA D’AMPEZZO  

    Depart Cortina D’Ampezzo, The Dolomites

    Activities: Breakfast & Checkout

    Transport: Shuttle from Cortina to Venice Marco Polo Airlport

    Farewell and Arrivederci

Package Pricing

$7600 per person // double occupancy.

$1,500 secures your spot — Unlocks your goal-setting program, pre-season training recommendations, essential gear list, and community connection. Non refundable.

Balance due May 15, 2026 — Unlocks your full 3-month adventure program (strength, cardio, mobility training), expert workshops, and exclusive Member Hub with team resources

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Hike 2 Hotel Package Includes

    • VITAL Strength & Conditioning Program

    • Performance Nutrition Masterclass with industry specialists

    • Personalized goal-setting and training accountability framework

    • Ongoing coaching support and performance optimization resources

    • Round-trip airport transfers from Venice Marco Polo Airport (Day 1 arrival and Day 6 departure)

    • 5 nights in 4-star hotels:

      • 2 nights in Cortina d'Ampezzo

      • 2 nights in Alta Badia

      • 1 night in San Vigilio

    • Daily transfers to trailheads as per itinerary

    • Luggage transfers between hotels

    • Lift tickets on select trails

    • Guided hikes through panoramic peaks, valleys, mountain villages, forests, and diverse Dolomites landscapes

    • 14 meals from Day 1 dinner through Day 6 breakfast

    • 2 local English-speaking hiking guides

    • Team kickoff and celebration events (Day 1 and Day 5)

    • VITAL Ventures team gear celebrating your community and earned achievement

    • €18 donation to Wow Nature's reforestation projects, making your trip carbon-neutral

    • International airfare to/from Italy

    • Travel insurance (we partner with Wanderwell Insurance and happy to share details)

    • Personal transportation outside of scheduled VITAL Ventures transfers

    • Alcoholic beverages

    • Guide gratuities (optional—budget $100-150 per person to be pooled for our two Italian guides if you've had an exceptional experience)

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Testimonials

  • I learned that I can challenge myself and I can take care of myself when the challenge is greater than I can do.

    Carolyn H.

  • "Vital nailed it! Challenging effort in physical, mental, emotional growth through out this experience."

    Pamela L.

  • "This was an incredible mix of training, teamwork and adventure. I was inspired throughout the summer enjoyed meeting new people and connecting with others who are interested in staying strong and fit. This adventure inspired me to make time for my training and contributed to my overall happiness and well being. "

    Virginia P.

  • "This was the most rewarding adventure I’ve ever been on! Awesome training, professional coaching, and top-notch trip management allowed me to relax and take in the beauty of the Dolomites, all the while surrounded by a truly special group of new friends!"

    Susan P.

  • “So grateful to Libby for her vigilance, encouragement and belief that we are able to be strong, train and explore with like minded people!"

    Mary Ann S.