7 Days in the Dolomites: From Rustic Mountain Huts to a Luxe Spa
For travelers seeking a unique blend of adventure and luxury, the Dolomites provide an unforgettable experience. This seven-day journey begins in Venice and winds through the breathtaking mountain landscapes of Cortina d’Ampezzo, combining challenging hikes, charming mountain huts, and indulgent spa treatments.
How to get to the Dolomites
The closest airport is Venice, making it a convenient starting point. Many travelers choose to spend a couple of days exploring this iconic city before heading north. Renting a car is a popular option for navigating the two-and-a-half-hour scenic drive to Cortina d’Ampezzo, but public transport options like the Cortina Express bus are also available for hikers who prefer to forgo a vehicle.
Day 1: Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cortina d’Ampezzo serves as the perfect base for exploring the Dolomites. The village is bustling with activity, thanks in part to preparations for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Visitors can enjoy a mix of high-end boutiques, outdoor gear shops, and cozy local restaurants. Sip an Aperol spritz on a sunny terrace with stunning mountain views before retiring to a quaint, no-frills hotel for a good night’s rest before the adventure begins.
Days 2-4: Hiking the Dolomites
The Dolomites’ dramatic peaks, tranquil valleys, and turquoise lakes offer some of the most spectacular hiking in the world. A popular starting point is Lake Braies, leading to trails that vary in difficulty but consistently deliver incredible views. One of the highlights of the journey is the experience of staying in rifugios—family-run mountain huts that provide hearty meals, warm hospitality, and incredible alpine scenery.
Hikes can range from six to eight miles per day, often with significant elevation gains, making them challenging but rewarding. Rifugio Fodara Vedla, for instance, is surrounded by green meadows, a tiny chapel, and grazing cows. These picturesque spots provide ideal settings to recharge and enjoy the mountains’ tranquility.
It’s worth noting that weather in the Dolomites can be unpredictable. Early snowfalls might require adjustments to itineraries, so flexibility is key.
Days 5-7: Guilt-free Spa at Forestis
After days of hiking, Forestis in South Tyrol offers the ultimate wellness retreat. Nestled high in the mountains, this minimalist spa resort boasts panoramic views, private Tower Suites with luxurious amenities, and a world-class wellness program. Guests can indulge in locally inspired cuisine, explore snow-covered trails, and experience the property’s signature spa rituals, including saunas, cold plunges, and relaxation lounges.
Forestis elevates wellness retreats by blending pampering with mindful rejuvenation, making it a fitting finale to an adventurous journey.
Fora’s Perks at Forestis include a $50-$100 credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Insider Tips
Plan for tolls: If driving, ensure you’re prepared to pay tolls along the route.
Book rifugios early: These popular accommodations fill quickly, especially in peak season.
Bring layers: Weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so pack accordingly.
