Trails and walks

Hikes

The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer breathtaking views in every season.

The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer breathtaking views and unique scenery, whether snow-capped in winter or rich with shades of green in summer.

Passo del Mulo and the Olbe Lakes

Passo del Mulo and the Olbe Lakes

One of the hikes our guests love most is the one to the Olbe Lakes. You can start from the mountain hut at the top of the Seggiovia 2000 chairlift for the walk to the small lakes and the Passo del Mulo. For well-trained hikers, the outward route can take as little as an hour or so. Like all mountain hikes it shouldn't be taken lightly, but it's manageable for families with children too. It's also a beautiful winter snowshoe hike up to the Passo del Mulo, starting from Sappada on a climb that's manageable even for less experienced walkers.

The Cascatelle Waterfalls

The Cascatelle Waterfalls

A beautiful walk with stunning views to photograph and treasure. In Sappada it's not to be missed, and easy enough for families with children. A natural gem just steps from the village: it's remarkable how quickly you go from the town centre to this truly unexpected place. The setting is well kept and suitable for families with children too. Even in winter, with the whole waterfall frozen, it has a truly special charm.

Rifugio Calvi

Rifugio Calvi

Among the classic walks, this is perhaps the most rewarding for the majestic setting it crosses. The route is straightforward, moderately demanding only in the middle-upper section, sun-drenched and fairly popular. It's the highest mountain hut in the area, set in a fantastic position: to the east it's enclosed by the splendid amphitheatre of Chiadenis and Pic, to the north by the powerful bulk of Peralba, and in other directions it looks out over the rocky ridge stretching from Lastroni to the distant Rinaldo group.

Lake Ziegelhütte

Lake Ziegelhütte

A small lake close to the centre of Sappada, which locals call the “trout lake”: it takes just a 30-minute walk to reach, making it an ideal destination for families with children, with a very easy route. Fishing and barbecuing are allowed at certain times of year, and in high season there's also a small bar serving refreshments.

Orrido di Acquatona Gorge

Orrido di Acquatona Gorge

A natural waterfall of the Piave river, which rises not far from here and meets a sudden drop in the mountain: a path carved through a fascinating and slightly unnerving setting. The height and the surroundings will send a shiver down your spine — just lean over the roadside parapet (if you don't suffer from vertigo!) and the thrill is guaranteed.

Mountain safety: the Italian Alpine Club's 10 golden rules

  1. Before setting out on a hike, assess your abilities and the difficulties you might encounter.
  2. Remember that mountain weather is often unstable. Keep this in mind when choosing your clothing and equipment.
  3. It's best never to go into the mountains alone.
  4. Before setting off, tell friends or relatives your itinerary and destination.
  5. Strictly observe any danger signs and prohibition notices you come across.
  6. Never leave the marked trail.
  7. Vipers are most often found in tall grass or under rocks. Making noise as you walk will usually make them flee. Long trousers, hiking boots and thick socks offer protection against bites in any case.
  8. If caught in a severe storm in the mountains, don't seek shelter near a summit; move away from iron crosses, ridges and trees, and set aside any metal equipment.
  9. Fog is very common in the mountains. If it's very thick and you don't know the trail well, it's best to find shelter and stop.
  10. Respect the environment and the people who live in the mountains. Accept their advice and their way of life.