Walk this way
People have been drawn to the Dolomites for thousands of years. Jauntily capped shepherds lead flocks between valley pastures, geologists pilgrimage to study the curious shapes of the rocky mountains, and World War I troops have left their mark while battling over the Italy-Austria border. Mountaineers, photographers and wanderers all come, following the irresistible call of the Tre Cime.
In the last decade, however, the Dolomites have begun to creak under the weight of their own popularity.
Over four million people visit in summer to hike, bike and climb. In places like Tre Cime and Lake Braies, it can lead to overtourism and too many boots on the same trails, putting pressure on the communities, wildlife and landscapes. With increasing numbers of hikers, walking vacations need to approach the landscapes with care.
After all, hiking can still be one of the most exciting and responsible ways to see the Dolomites. The trick isn’t to avoid them – they really are spectacular – but to be savvy about how and when to approach them. And that’s where our walking tours in the Dolomites step in.