The Dolomites are a breathtaking and unspoilt corner of Italy, ideal for walkers of all abilities. A new guide from Cicerone – Day walks in the Dolomites by Gillian Price – is an essential companion for anyone considering hiking in the region.
Table of Contents
Why Walk In The Dolomites?
A part of the Alpine range, the Dolomites span the Trentino and Veneto regions. They are characterised by magnificent views, bizarre rock formations, woodland and meadows carpeted with alpine flowers. The area is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, partly for its natural beauty and partly for its distinctive geology and geomorphology.
You’ll find a mixture of cultures here: the Dolomites may be in Italy but this region was once part of Austria. And the area is rich with history, particularly military history, with wartime tunnels and fortifications.
Walkers are well catered for, with an extensive network of waymarked paths. There are plenty of small towns and resorts where you can base yourself, and a few of the walks in this book are close to the cities of Trento or Bolzano.
Day Walks In The Dolomites
Day walks in the Dolomites includes 50 short walks of varying length and difficulty. All of the walks can be accessed by public transport: the region is well provided with trains, buses and cable cars (this is a skiing area in winter), and cars are actively discouraged in some places!
There is a remarkable variety of walks here, covering everything from rocky mountains to lowland areas with meadows, lakes and small alpine villages. There are three levels of difficulty: some of the walks are designed for experienced mountain hikers, and a few may be best avoided if you suffer from vertigo. But others will appeal to the more casual walker, with shorter routes on mostly level ground.
Using The Guide
The introduction gives background information about geology and natural history, national parks, and accommodation and transport. It tells you when to travel to avoid the snow and the ice (walking in the Dolomites is very much a summer activity). And it offers some practical advice about walking and mountain safety. Of course – because this is Italy – there are also lots of suggestions for eating and drinking.
Individual entries give details of distance, height, difficulty and time. You’ll find a description of the walk and what you will see, as well as how to get there and where to find refreshments etc. Each route has detailed walking instructions and maps.
Inspiration For Walkers
This guide is easy to use, and has suggestions for longer/shorter and easier/harder walks from each starting point. Once you have bought the book you can also download gpx files which will enable you to follow the routes on your mobile device.
But this is not just an instruction book. There is lots of inspiration for walkers here. From the full colour photographs on every page to the information boxes covering subjects as diverse as legends, prehistory, local traditions and geology. Whatever type of walker you are, this book will have you reaching for your walking boots.
Day Walks in the Dolomites by Gillian Price, 4th edition, Cicerone, 2023, 9781786311214
