If you're looking for a guided hiking tour that connects three of the most iconic alpine lakes in the Dolomites, this five-day adventure leads you from the hidden waterfalls of the Ra Gores de Federa valley to the glacial shores of Lago di Limedes, pretty Lago di Pianòzes, and on to the turquoise Lago di Sorapis. Accompanied by an expert guide, you'll discover the beautiful scenery, the stories and the geology that make each lake unique.
Highlights
- Discover three unique alpine lakes: Pianòzes, Limedes and Sorapis, each with its own color and character
- Hike the hidden Ra Gores de Federa trail through untouched forests, streams, and wooden bridges
- Walk among the iconic Cinque Torri rock formations and traces of World War I mountain history
- Reach the legendary Lago di Sorapis with turquoise waters so vivid it takes your breath away
- Explore the quieter, less-traveled side of the Dolomites with a local expert guide at your side
- Enjoy panoramic rifugio stops along the way and experience the authentic mountain hut hospitality
- Stay 4 nights in an excellent 3-star hotel in Cortina d'Ampezzo
Itinerary
Water has a unique way of transforming mountain landscapes, creating places of extraordinary beauty where colors, reflections, and light continuously change throughout the day. This guided journey leads you through three remarkable Alpine lakes, each with its own distinctive atmosphere and character, combining some of the most beautiful lake landscapes in the Dolomites into a single experience. Over three days of hiking, discover very different mountain environments, each shaped by water in its own way.-
Day 1
Arrive in Cortina d’Ampezzo
Arrive in Cortina d'Ampezzo, an alpine town surrounded by soaring peaks and lively energy. Take some time to settle into your hotel, explore the cobbled streets, and enjoy the mountain vibes at your own pace. The adventure starts here!
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Day 2
Hike the Ra Gores de Federa path
Today, you'll discover one of the most scenic and lesser-known corners of the Cortina Valley, where water becomes the main character of the landscape. Hidden within an untouched forest, the trail winds past streams, small waterfalls, and wooden bridges, creating a peaceful environment that feels far from the valley's busier trails. This experience combines easy hiking with beautiful natural surroundings and offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the quieter side of the Dolomites. The route gradually climbs through woodland landscapes before opening onto alpine meadows beneath some of the most iconic peaks surrounding Cortina d'Ampezzo.
(~4-5 hours hiking, 10km / 6.2 miles, 630m / 2,067' ascent and descent. Longer option to Rifugio Croda da Lago: ~5-6 hours hiking, 13km / 8 miles, 850m / 2,788' ascent and descent.) -
Day 3
Discover Lago di Limedes and the Cinque Torri area
Today combines one of the most photogenic Alpine lakes of the Dolomites, Lago di Limedes, with some of the most iconic landscapes surrounding Cortina d'Ampezzo. Reflections, dramatic peaks, and traces of mountain history create an experience where nature and heritage blend seamlessly. As you walk among panoramic passes and unique rock formations, the route offers constantly changing views and the opportunity to experience some of the most celebrated scenery of the Dolomites.(~3-4 hours hiking, 8km / 5 miles, 490m / 1,607' ascent and descent.) -
Day 4
Hike to Lago di Sorapis
Today, you'll reach a visually striking lake hidden beneath the imposing Sorapis massif. The lake is renowned for its extraordinary turquoise color and spectacular mountain setting. Although among the most sought-after destinations in the region, the route itself remains a genuine mountain hike, combining forest sections, panoramic traverses, and some more exposed passages that add character and excitement to the experience.
(~5 hours hiking, 11.8km / 7.3 miles, 560m / 1,837' ascent and descent.) -
Day 5
Departure
Leave independently after breakfast (private transfer upon request).
More information
Hike - ModerateActive days with 4-6 hours of hiking, averaging 10-13 km / 6-8 miles per day. Elevation gains range from 300-600m / 1,000-2,000', with some steep or uneven sections on gravel or single-track trails. Routes may include one or two more challenging climbs to rewarding viewpoints. Some nights may be spent in mountain rifugios, requiring a light overnight pack. A steady pace with breaks for lunch or cultural stops; trekking poles recommended. Transfer options may be available on some days.
Necessary Equipment – Not Provided
- Lightweight or mid-weight hiking boots (waterproof, sturdy, with ankle support)
- Trail running shoes (for trail running trips—not road-running shoes)
- Note: Road-running shoes or sneakers are NOT suitable for hiking or trail-running trips
- Long-sleeved synthetic or cotton shirt
- Short-sleeved synthetic or cotton T-shirts
- Regular underwear (synthetics recommended)
- Medium-weight synthetic jacket
- Quick-drying full-length pants
- Shorts
- Lightweight Gore-Tex or equivalent rain/wind jacket and pants
- Baseball cap or wide-brimmed sun hat
- Bandanna
- Daypack (20L for hotel-based trips; 35L for hut-to-hut trips)
- Waterproof backpack cover
- Water bottle (1-1.5 quart) or hydration system
- Trekking poles (recommended for knee support and stability)
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) and lip balm
- Personal first-aid kit
- Toiletry kit
- Lightweight socks (liner socks and synthetic athletic socks)
- Silk sleeping bag liner (required for rifugio dormitory accommodation)
- Small amount of laundry detergent for handwashing
- Ziploc bags for organization
- Gloves and warm hat (for high-altitude hikes)
- 3/4-finger leather gloves (for via ferrata)
- Ace bandage or brace for knee/ankle support
- Spare prescription glasses or contact lenses
- Camera with extra batteries or charger
- Swimsuit (some hotels have pools and saunas)
- Casual clothes for evenings
More information
3-Star Hotels in Cortina d'Ampezzo deliver a cozy, high-quality alpine experience where traditional interiors meet modern amenities. Though Cortina is globally famous as a luxury resort, its 3-Star tier is widely praised for exceptional value, incredible views, and warm family-run hospitality.
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