> Discover the wild side of the Dolomites with the whole family
> Hike from Veneto into Friuli with cozy rifugios along the way
> End with a hotel night and a trail just for kids
Welcome to the untamed charm of the Friuli Dolomites. This 4-day adventure takes your family from Veneto into Friuli, with manageable hikes, big views, and plenty of alpine magic. Along the way, you’ll sleep in Rifugio Padova and Rifugio Giaf, and walk the fun and educational Children’s Trail—designed to keep young legs moving and curious minds engaged.
This route is perfect for families who enjoy hiking together and want to dip into wilder terrain without overdoing it. Expect forests, dramatic peaks, and a final night of well-earned comfort in a hotel. It’s Dolomites light, but still with spice.
Your trek begins in Calalzo di Cadore, with a gradual ascent through peaceful alpine forests and open meadows. The trail is well-marked and steadily climbs, allowing you to enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and peaks, or crodas.
About halfway through the hike, you will cross towards the stream and Rifugio Cercenà. Although the path leads to the hut, you’ll stay on the main route and continue towards Rifugio Padova, where you'll spend the night.
As you approach the end of the stage, the forest opens up and stunning views of the jagged peaks of the Friulian Dolomites come into view. Shortly after, you’ll reach your hut, where a warm welcome and a cozy mountain atmosphere await after a day of hiking.
Today’s stage takes you deeper into the wild heart of the Friulian Dolomites. Starting from Rifugio Padova, you’ll ascend gently at first, and then more steeply as you approach the highest point of the day: Forcella Scodavacca close to 2050 meters. A long but rewarding hike up on a narrow paths that turns into loose gravel toward the top.
Soon after, you’ll enjoy the stunning Forcella Scodavacca views from the Bianchi ring, an impressive panoramic vistas of the rugged peaks, truly a highlight of the traverse.
From here, the trail descends through rocky alpine landscapes, larch forests, and meadows as you make your way towards Giaf, your welcoming overnight stop surrounded by nature’s peaceful beauty.
This stage begins on a very scenic trail, surrounded by greenery, offering spectacular views of the Friulian Dolomites as you leave Rifugio Giaf behind. Follow the well-marked path with some CAI signposts guiding your way. The route follows the Truoi dal Von path, leading gently towards Forni di Sopra.
As you continue, enjoy multiple panoramic viewpoints from kilometers 3 to 4 near Al Turion peak (1268 m), such as: Belvedere sul Lavinal, sul Varmost, su Giaf and su Forni.
Before entering town, take a short detour onto the Children's Educational Trail, an easy and informative path, perfect if you're traveling with children. After this short loop, head into Forni di Sopra to complete today's stage.
The final stage starts directly with a chairlift ride from Forni di Sopra up to Rifugio Som Picol, gaining elevation effortlessly. From there, follow the trail of the huts or Trail delle Malghe through open alpine pastures.
Next, take the Sentiero verso il Clap Varmost before joining CAI Trail 207, one of today's scenic highlights. The route passes by Località Varmost, where you’ll see another cable car station, and continues towards the panoramic Giovanni Caposassi Trail. This nearly flat 2 km section offers magnificent views as it crosses the west slope of Monte Simone (2180 m) and honors the famous local botanist.
Further on, the trail merges with the Alta Via N.6 delle Dolomiti, guiding you between scenic mountain features such as Col Pioi (1862 m) or Col Magnete (1524 m). The day ends as you descend towards Passo della Mauria, completing your beautiful Dolomite traverse.
