108 kilometres, 7 stages, 6 optional trails, across the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park, the first Park established in Italy. It consists of 32,000 hectares of land with more than 1,400 species of flowers and plants.
Beyond the numbers, this journey is satisfying because of the spectacular views and the people encountered along the way, a route to be enjoyed step by step, leaving the hustle and bustle of today’s world behind.
The route begins in Forno di Zoldo, the most northern point of the Park, and it runs across the Prampèr – Mezzodì and Schiara Dolomite Groups. It skirts the wild and almost impenetrable Monti del Sole, climbs up to the Piani Eterni where you can admire the impressive faces of Sass de Mura. Then, after the long walk across the Vette Feltrine, you’ll arrive in Feltre, the southern entrance to the Park.
The route follows CAI trails, except for a few optional sections that use the Park’s thematic trails. Mountain experience and a good sense of direction are essential for some of the less well-trodden sections; because the routes run inside a fully protected reserve zone, the signs are minimal.
Approximately half of the route follows the same trails of the Alta Via no. 1 and no. 2.
During the seven days you’ll spend walking through the Park, you’ll come across wild, unspoilt mountains, thriving wildlife, rugged rock faces that have defined the history of mountaineering, centuries-old high altitude pastures and alpine farms.
The unique atmosphere of the mountain huts remains faithful to their past, without too many frills or creature comforts. The mountain hut managers will be waiting for you with a smile and tasty local dishes such as polenta, pastin and schiz cheese (corn grain, meat and cheese-based dishes).
Because of the altitude and difficult access, traditional mountain customs have been preserved and mass tourism has been kept at bay.
This is where walking amongst a herd of chamois and mouflon sheep is not uncommon but will certainly be one of the memories you’ll treasure.
