Women's Only - Trail Running The Dolomites Alta Via 1
With Audrée Lafrenière
Welcome to a journey where earth meets sky, and dreams take flight amidst the rugged beauty of the Dolomites.
Sep 8- Sep 15, 2025
Price: 3500 EUR
A 25% deposit is due to secure your reservation. The remaining balance is due 65 days before the start of the trip.
(View the cancelation policy below in the section "Price and Details")
Audrée Lafrenière is an experienced trail runner with a particular affection for long distances. In recent years she successfully completed some very hard mountain races (TDS, Tot Dret and UTMB, just to name a few).
When she's not tackling big races, she loves going on multi-day adventures in the mountains. She has been fastpacking a lot near her home in BC, far away in Patagonia and Slovenia, and around the TMB.
Now, Audrée is teaming up once again with Vagabond Trails to take on the legendary Alta Via 1 in the Dolomites. This iconic route is celebrated by trail runners around the globe, and Audrée is thrilled to join a group of adventurous women on this unforgettable journey.
After the incredible response to our first women-only trail running adventure, we're thrilled to announce a new journey for 2025: exploring the stunning Alta Via 1 in the Dolomites. This route is a dream come true for trail runners, and we've crafted this experience exclusively for female runners.
The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes in the world. Experience their beauty at every turn on the Alta Via 1, a trail that invites you to make your dreams a reality. Challenge yourself on steep ascents, glide through enchanting forests, and connect with the untamed essence of nature—all while enjoying the company of like-minded women.
This isn’t just a trail-running tour; it’s an inspiring journey into the heart of the Dolomites. Lace-up your shoes, take a deep breath, and let the Alta Via 1 guide you on an adventure you'll never forget.
Is this tour suitable for me?
This route is challenging with technical terrain. If you have previous experience running the TMB, expect this to be more technically demanding, with some parts of the route featuring scree. Some days are quite long with steep uphills and downhills. Please review the daily distances and elevation gain and loss in the itinerary below to ensure this trip is right for you. If you are a road runner or a trail runner who enjoys hitting the trails and are committed to preparing physically and mentally, this tour is for you. Our trips are not just trips; they are journeys of self-discovery where you will feel challenged, alive, and reconnected. If you crave adventure and personal growth, you've found the right experience
What is the pace in our trail running tours?
Imagine a long weekend day out with your friends. You'll be hiking in the uphills, easy running in the downhills, and jogging on the flats. You don't need to be a fast runner or possess technical climbing skills to join this tour, but you should be fit enough to cover the daily distances and elevation gains. This is not a race; our trips are about having fun, enjoying the experience, and feeling alive.
We've planned the trip so that when you reach the next overnight accommodation, you'll have time to unwind, enjoy a glass of wine, read a book, and savor the breathtaking views. On certain days, you can reduce the distance by using a cable car or public transportation.
Bags Transfer
To ensure your comfort during your runs, your primary luggage will be transported from hut to hut daily, allowing you to carry only a light running vest with your essentials.
Guiding
Throughout the entire tour, you will be guided by a certified International Mountain Leader (s). Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. If there are more than 9 passengers, we will provide two guides to maintain a maximum ratio of 9 passengers per guide
Please ensure that your physical condition aligns with the itinerary below. If you have any questions, don't hesitate contact us.
Itinerary
Day 1 | Cortina d'Ampezzo – Arrival day
Welcome to the heart of the Dolomites, where your trail-running adventure begins! Arrive in the charming town of Cortina d'Ampezzo, nestled amidst towering peaks. As a designated UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, Cortina is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on all mountain enthusiasts. After checking into your accommodation, prepare for an incredible journey through this stunning region. In the evening, we will gather for a group safety briefing. Please note that dinner for tonight is not included.
Day 2 | Cortina d'Ampezzo – Lago di Braies to Rifugio Pederu
The day begins with a local private transfer to the iconic Lago di Braies, a picturesque gem and the official starting point of the Alta Via trail. As we venture forth, we gradually embark on a steady ascent beneath the layered cliffs of Monte Muro. Our first destination is Porta Sora il Forn, perched at an altitude of 2388 meters (7832 feet). The reward for our ascent is an expansive vista that unveils the Marmolada glacier, a unique feature as it represents the sole substantial ice field in the Dolomites. After enjoying the breathtaking views, we continue our run downhill towards Rifugio Biella, where you can indulge in one of those delightful Italian coffees that are abundant along our route. We then descend further through enchanting meadows adorned with vibrant flowers and pastoral farm landscapes, eventually arriving at our overnight accommodation. Please note that dinner for tonight is not included
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The route: 11.2 mi / 18km - High gain/loss +3420ft/1045m | -3346ft/1020m approx
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Approximate time 4 - 6 hours
Day 3 | Rifugio Pederu – Rifugio Col Gallina
Today's run takes you deeper into the Dolomites. We kick off our day with a traverse through the rocky and rugged Vallone di Rudo, ultimately reaching Rifugio Fanes. Along the way, you'll be treated to captivating vistas as we make our way to Passo di Limo, where a pristine lake bearing the same name awaits.
Next, we embark on a traverse along a rugged mountainside, concluding with a final ascent to the Forcetta del Lago. The descent to Lago di Lagazuoi surrounds us with stunning views. As we continue, we'll pass through what once served as a front line during World War I, offering the opportunity to explore historical gun emplacements and tunnels carved into the ridgeline. Before reaching our overnight refuge at Col Gallina, we'll pause at Rifugio Lagazuoi for a coffee or a delightful treat. Dinner for tonight is included.
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The route: 15.3 mi / 24.6km - High gain/loss +5528t/1685m | -2408ft/734m approx
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Approximate time 6 - 8 hours
Day 4 | Rifugio Col Gallina – Passo Giau Rifugio – Rifugio Croda da Lago – Malga Federa
Today, we'll soak in breathtaking views of the Cinque Torri or the Five Towers. Our journey takes us along a beautiful traversing trail to the rustic Rifugio Dibona, where we can have a cappuccino and a cake. Afterwards, we'll navigate a steep descent through larch forests and ascend the other side. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to explore the 'Sentiero delle Trincee,' an open-air WWI trench museum around the base of the towers. A final short climb leads us to the pass at Averau, where a delightful Italian Rifugio awaits for lunch.
We conclude this unique day with a rocky traversing trail beneath impressive cliffs, eventually reaching Passo Giau. Once at the pass we reach the gully Forcella Ambrizzola and then Rifugio Croda da Lago where we can have a quick snack or continue to our rifugio for the night towards Malga Federa. Please note that dinner for tonight is not included.
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The route: 11.2 mi / 18km - High gain/loss +2953t/900m | -3281ft/1000m approx
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Approximate time 6 - 8 hours
Day 5 | Malga Federa – Rifugio Staulanza
Leaving Rifugio Malga Federa, our journey unfolds with the crossing of three passes, signifying a distinct change in the trail's character. We transition from rugged, rocky paths to lush green meadows that create a picturesque backdrop. Our route guides us through undulating terrain, taking us across flower-strewn meadows and into the next valley, where pastoral scenes often feature herds of horses, donkeys, and cattle grazing on the mountainside. We'll savor a well-deserved lunch at Rifugio Citta de Fiume.
The final leg of our day guides us along a meandering trail beneath the grandeur of the untamed and formidable Monte Pelmo, an iconic symbol of the Dolomites. Our descent continues until we reach our overnight accommodation at another welcoming rifugio, where we'll spend the night. Dinner for tonight is included.
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The route: 9.7 mi / 15.5km - High gain/loss +1968t/600m | -2132ft/650m approx
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Approximate time 4 - 6 hours
Day 6 | Rifugio Staulanza – Rifugio Passo Duran
Today marks one of the longest days of our trip. We start the day with a gradual ascent towards the col of Cima Coldai and then Lago Coldai. Subsequently, we embark on a descent into Val Civetta, a realm adorned with slabs, peaks, and pinnacles, where the colossal west face of Monte Civetta soars 1200 meters above us.
Our journey leads us over the Forcella di Col Rean, eventually bringing us to Rifugio Vazzoler for a well-deserved lunch break. After savoring some pasta, we traverse the mountainside, enjoying the shade of the trees and eventually ascending the steep pass of Forcella Col Dell’Orso. A final, swift descent brings us to our accommodation for the night. Dinner for tonight is included.
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The route: 17.4 mi / 28km - High gain/loss +5085t/1550m | -5249ft/1600m approx
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Approximate time 7 - 8 hours
Day 7 | Rifugio Passo Duran – Forno Di Zoldo - Cortina d'Ampezzo
Our last day on the Alta Via trail begins with an early start. Today, we venture through the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park, where the untamed beauty of the mountainside reveals itself with its imposing cliff faces and towering summits. If luck is on our side, there's a high chance of encountering chamois and marmots along the way.
We'll pause for a well-deserved lunch break and end our journey in Forno di Zoldo, where a private van awaits to transport us back to Cortina d'Ampezzo, a journey of approximately 2 hours.
We will celebrate this epic journey with a final dinner together.
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The route: 17.4 mi / 28km - High gain/loss +4921t/1500m | -5184ft/1580m approx
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Approximate time 7 - 8 hours
Day 8 | Cortina d'Ampezzo - Departure
We enjoy a last breakfast together and then time to pack all the memories back home.
A note about fitness: This adventure involves physical activity for around 6-8 hours per day. To participate comfortably in the tour, you will require a certain level of fitness. To make a self-assessment of whether or not this is for you, you should consider yourself to be in good shape, be accustomed to running/hiking, and be able to do it comfortably for at least 3 hours a day. Please consult a doctor if you feel that this might be a challenge before booking.
The entire tour is done in English.
*We reserve the right to change the itinerary without previous notice due to weather conditions, accommodation availability, National Parks regulations or notifications and unforeseeable circumstances.
This tour is governed by the Terms and Conditions
How Challenging ?
High effort. This is a challenging adventure where we can expect 5 - 8 hours of running/hiking per day, with up to 1700 meters of elevation gain. Previous multi-day trail running experience is recommended.
Price and Details
The tour includes:
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All of the scheduled activities
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Transport from Cortina to Lago di Braies
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Transport from the trailend back to Cortina d'Ampezzo
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All accommodations during the tour (7 nights)
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3* hotel in Cortina d'Ampezzo (2 nights)
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Quadruple room or double room in Refugio Staulanza
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Other mountain rifugios in dorms only
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Luggage transfer between accommodations
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7 breakfasts and 4 dinners
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Guiding from a certified International Mountain Leader
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Amazing trails and beautiful landscapes
The tour excludes:
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Transfers to and from Cortina d'Ampezzo
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First night dinner in Cortina d'Ampezzo
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Dinner in Rifugio Pederu
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Dinner in Malga Federa
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Lunches are not included
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Insurance. All participants are required to have their own insurance appropriate for outdoor sports; such as health, accident, mountain rescue, repatriation, cancellation, personal liability, etc.
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Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
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Expenses for extra activities, such as; massages, spas, saunas, hot tub
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Any accommodations for extra days in Cortina d'Ampezzo
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Any lifts or cable cars
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Any private transfers not mentioned above
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Tips for the guide
Price: 3500 EUR
A 25% deposit is due to secure your spot, the remaining balance is due 65 days before the start of the trip. Once the trip is confirmed your deposit is non-refundable, however, it can be transferred to any other trip.
Participants:
min 6 - max 12
Start: Cortina d'Ampezzo
End: Cortina d'Ampezzo
The closest airports to Cortina are Venice Marco Polo and Venice Treviso, in Italy.
We reserve the right to change the itinerary without previous notice due to weather conditions, and unforeseeable circumstances.
This tour is governed by the Terms and Conditions
Cancellation policy:
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Trip pending: a 25% down payment is fully refundable
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Trip confirmed: a 25% down payment is non-refundable. You can transfer this down payment to any other of our trips within the next year
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60 days or less before the trip starts no refund available
Travel insurance is required for all of our trips. Make sure that your insurance covers trip cancellation (in case of any unforeseen circumstances)