Hut-to-hut adventuring in the heart of the Italian Dolomites.
Experience the best of the Italian Dolomites on this remarkable journey through the North of Italy! We’ll start off by traveling to Cortina, a picturesque village at the base of the mountains. After several days of introductory day hikes and a via ferrata, we will explore the Dolomites on a multi-day backpacking expedition. Using skills we learned in the first few days, we will traverse the Dolomites as the ancient Italians did by way of a multi-day via ferrata. After hiking alongside some of the most beautiful peaks in the region, we’ll travel to Val di Fiemme to raft down the waters of the largest Italian glacier. We will finish our trip with breathtaking views of the mountain valleys while rock climbing and say goodbye after exploring the beautiful historical city of Venice!
Length
14 DAYS
Download the Sample Itinerary
Curious what a Bold Earth Dolomites: Italy trip looks like? Download a sample itinerary to get a feel for the types of activities, destinations, and experiences your adventure may include. Every trip is a little different — that’s part of the magic — but this will give you a great sense of what’s in store!
What You'll
experience
Everything You Need for Adventure
Preparing for your child’s adventure is an exciting journey! We’ve compiled all the essential information you need to ensure a smooth experience. From paperwork to packing tips, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Included
- All meals and camping accommodations (13 nights)
- Professional instruction for all activities
- Technical gear and equipment
- Transportation during the trip
- Experienced Bold Earth trip leaders
- Entry fees to all parks and attractions
What to Bring
- Personal clothing and toiletries
- Sleeping bag and personal camping gear
- Travel to/from Dolomites: Italy (flights not included)
Accommodations
All campgrounds feature running water and bathroom facilities. Bold Earth provides comfortable 4-person tents.
Trip Preparation
Getting ready for your adventure is part of the excitement! Join a Bold Earth summer director in the spring for a webinar about preparing for our international trips. Your Trip Leader will call you two days prior to departure to help you feel confident and prepared for your Bold Earth experience.
You’ll receive a comprehensive preparation information that includes:
- Detailed packing lists specific to Dolomites: Italy’s varied climates
- Physical preparation recommendations to get the most out of your adventure
- Travel information and arrival/departure logistics
- What to expect on your first day and throughout the trip
- Tips for going tech-free and making the most of your unplugged experience
Our goal is to make sure you feel excited and ready to dive into 14 days of epic Dolomites: Italy adventure with your new Bold Earth crew!
...What Past Adventurers Say
“Bold Earth gives kids a chance to step out of the normal churn of day-to-day life with school, sports, hobbies and try something totally new. They get to make new friends from across the US and the world, try out new activities, build confidence and just spend some time being a teen!”
What Past Adventurers Say
“Disconnecting from her phone (digital detox) allowed [my daughter] to strengthen connections with others and fully immerse in the physical environment. The daily activities stimulated [her] and hopefully will inspire her to continue seeking challenging outdoor adventures.”
What Past Adventurers Say
“Adventure unplugged. My teen loved the challenge of the activities--from canyoneering to rafting to making dinner. I loved her head up, eyes open and smile wide. I would highly recommend Bold Earth to anyone looking to improve their child's confidence and engagement in the world.”
FAQS
Find answers to your questions about our adventure programs and get ready for an amazing experience!
What's the physical fitness requirement?
This trip requires students to be physically fit, as you’ll be tackling physically strenuous days hiking 5–12 miles with several thousand feet of steep elevation gain and loss. We recommend regular aerobic exercise for at least 6 weeks before your trip to get the most out of your Bold Earth experience. Walking, jogging, swimming, or riding a bike are all great ways to prepare for your summer adventure! You don’t need to be an elite athlete, but serious preparation is key:
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Train with your gear: Hike on local trails wearing your fully packed 30–40L backpack to get used to the weight.
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Break in your boots: Walk at least 20 miles in your hiking shoes before the trip to prevent blisters.
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Build core strength: Practice balance and stabilization exercises (like planks or yoga) to handle variable, rugged terrain safely.
What gear do I need to bring?
All technical equipment is provided. You’ll find a complete packing list specific to this adventure in your enrollment materials.
What about weather and seasons?
The Dolomites can have varying day and nighttime temperatures ranging from 55°F to 72°F. Weather will remain fairly moderate throughout the trip, with evenings being more brisk at higher elevation.
What are the arrival and departure windows for this trip?
For all Dolomites trips, students will fly into and out of Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) in Venice, Italy. They will need to arrive at VCE between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. on the first day of their trip, and depart VCE between 6 a.m. and 1 p.m. on the last day of their trip.
Our trip leaders will be awaiting each student’s arrival at the airport. As per international unaccompanied minor policy, a representative will bring each UM student to meet trip leaders directly outside of security. For all other, non-UM students, please follow your group off the plane down to baggage claim. Once bags have been picked up, students will exit security to meet trip leaders waiting directly on the other side. Students will call home as soon as they meet with our group.
Please do not book flights until your child has been officially accepted and enrolled on their Dolomites trip and you’ve received the detailed travel guidelines.
Explore More Adventures
Looking for longer or gap programs? Check out our sister program, ARCC Programs
time to be bold
Your Dolomites: Italy Adventure Awaits
We’re excited to welcome you into the Bold Earth community! Questions about Dolomites: Italy? Call us at +1 828-435-3971 or email info@boldearth.com. You can also join one of our Info Sessions to learn more about what makes our adventures special.
Ready to apply? Complete our enrollment form to secure your spot on this incredible Italy adventure.
