Carezza Lake Scenic Trails

Next departure Jun 1, 2027
italp1030-catinaccio

This six-day, self-guided walking holiday explores the Dolomites from a single base in the Nova Levante and Carezza area, between the Latemar and Rosengarten massifs. Designed for Level 3 walkers, it combines sustained mountain days with the freedom to follow the routes at your own pace.

The varied trails lead from the green waters of Lago di Carezza to alpine pastures, rocky ridges, panoramic balconies and passes rising above 2,500 metres. Along the way, views open towards the Vajolet Towers, Val di Fassa, the Sella Group and the Marmolada glacier, while traditional mountain huts provide welcoming stops.

Drawing on its knowledge of the Italian Alps, Grand Angle has created an itinerary that makes the most of the area's diverse walks while limiting long transfers. Each day reveals a different side of the Dolomites, from quieter paths around Mount Gronton to the high trails beneath the Rosengarten cliffs.

Program

Arrive in Nova Levante by public transport (train: 1.5 hours from Verona train station to Bolzano + public bus to Nova Levante 35 minutes – not included) or private transfer from Bolzano (not included – 110€ for a 4-seater car and 150€ for an 8-seater-van).

Check-in is available from 2pm at the hotel. You stay in the same accommodation in Nova Levante, Carezza or Passo Costalunga for the next 6 nights. Spend your first evening relaxing, enjoying local cuisine, and admiring the peaks illuminated by the late afternoon light.

Dinner and overnight at your hotel; half-board.

Accommodation3*/4* Hotel in Nova Levante

Board the bus to Paolina cable car (included with guest pass, 20 min). From here take the cable car (not included) to Rifugio Paolina, then follow the UNESCO Geo-Trail at the base of the Rosengarten cliffs. Reach Rifugio Rosengarten (2339m/7673ft) and a short climb to Col de la Coronelle (2630m/8628ft). Descend via Col de Zigolade (2579m/8461ft) and the balcony trail of Col Campiac, ending at Rifugio Paolina: this is perfect panoramic day to start the tour, combining easy cable car access to scenic balcony trails, moderate climbs with high-altitude trails and spectacular views all day. Take the cable car (not included) down from Rifugio Paolina and return to the hotel by public bus (included with guest pass, 20 min).

About 5.5 hours of walking, 11.3km/7mi, +680m/2230ft, -660m/2165ft. Daypack to carry.

Dinner and overnight at your hotel; half-board.

Accommodation3*/4* Hotel in Nova Levante
DistanceLength : 11.3km/7mi
InfoWalking time : About 5.5 hours

Take the public bus to Passo Costalunga (1750m/5740ft) (included with hotel guest pass, 25 min) to start your first hike. Starting from Passo Costalunga, follow the trail around Mount Gronton for exploring trails on the less-frequented side of the Latemar massif. Expect rocky sections, moderate climbs, and panoramic views of valleys and distant peaks. After looping back to the North side of the massif you walk through the Latemar labyrinth, a mix of scree and rocky terrain with outstanding views of the Rosengarten massif. Your day ends with a forested decent to Lago di Carezza, famous for its green waters reflecting the surrounding peaks. Spend as much time at the lake as you want and return to Nova Levante in the afternoon by bus (included, 10-15 min).

About 6 to 7 hours of walking, 14.8km/9.2mi, +915m/3010ft, -1115m/3660ft. Daypack to carry.

*Shorter hike option: About 4 to 5 hours of walking, 10.6km/6.6mi, +540m/1770ft, -740m/2425ft. Daypack to carry.

Dinner and overnight at your hotel; half-board.

Accommodation3*/4* Hotel in Nova Levante
Option AMain Itinerary
Option BShorter Mount Gronton loop

Private transfer (included, 25 min) to Niger Pass (1660m/5446ft), starting point of this rewarding hike. The trail climbs to Rifugio Haniger, situated at the base of the imposing Vajolet Towers and the Rosengarten. Continue through lush alpine meadows to Plafötsch Alm, a traditional mountain hut. The route ends with a descent to San Cipriano, and one last climb back to Niger Pass. Private transfer to Nova Levante (included, 25 min).

About 6.5 hours of walking, 14km/8.7mi, +860m/2820ft, -860m/2820ft. Daypack to carry.

Dinner and overnight at your hotel; half-board.

Accommodation3*/4* Hotel in Nova Levante
DistanceLength : 14km/8.7mi
InfoWalking time : About 6.5 hours

Board the bus to Passo Costalunga (included with guest pass, 25 min) for the start of the day. Hike through the Rosengarten massif via Col Ciampac to Rifugio Roda di Vaèl, a classic mountain hut under the famous Vajolet Towers. Continue along a balcony trail to Rifugio Ciampedie, which offers views of Val di Fassa and surrounding peaks including Catinaccio, Sella, and the Marmolada Glacier. Long descent to Vigo di Fassa (you can also choose to descend by cable car, not included) and return to Nova Levante by bus (included with guest pass, 55 min).

About 5 to 6 hours of walking, 12km/7.5mi, +600m/1970ft, -970/3180ft. Daypack to carry.
Possibility to reduce end of day downhill hiking by taking the Catinaccio Funivie cable car (not included), total hiking about 3.5 to 4 hours, km/5.3mi, +600m/1970ft, -345m/1135ft. Daypack to carry.

Dinner and overnight at your hotel; half-board.

Accommodation3*/4* Hotel in Nova Levante
Option AMain Itinerary
Option BShortcut via Catinaccio Cable car

End of the trip after breakfast and hotel check-out (~10am).

A private transfer can be planned, for a supplemental fee, to take you to the bus or train station in Bolzano or Bressanone/Brixen.

Occasionally, adjustments to the planned itinerary may be necessary. This could stem from trip logistics (such as fully booked accommodations, trail closures, or adverse weather conditions, etc.). It's important to understand that these modifications are always implemented with your best interests in mind, prioritizing your safety and comfort.

Dates, prices and booking

Accommodation
Period
Participants
Price per person
Book

Trip details

Departure Dates
Departure date at your convenience 01st of June until the 10th of October 2026 (or 2027).

3* Hotel category

Dates2-3 Guests
Half-board
4-5 Guests
Half-board
6+ Guests
Half-board
Single Room Supplement
FromToPer PersonPer PersonPer PersonPer Room
6/1/20276/30/20271135 €1085 €1065 €+315 €
7/1/20277/31/20271215 €1175 €1155 €+315 €
8/1/20278/31/20271300 €1245 €1225 €+315 €
9/1/20279/30/20271215 €1175 €1155 €+315 €
10/1/202710/10/20271135 €1085 €1065 €+315 €

4* Hotel category

Dates2-3 Guests
Half-board
4-5 Guests
Half-board
6+ Guests
Half-board
Single Room Supplement
FromToPer PersonPer PersonPer PersonPer Room
6/1/20276/30/20271545 €1500 €1480 €+1000 €
7/1/20277/31/20271625 €1585 €1565 €+1000 €
8/1/20278/31/20271910 €1865 €1845 €N/A
9/1/20279/30/20271625 €1585 €1565 €+1000 €
10/1/202710/10/20271545 €1500 €1480 €+1000 €
  • Printed travel packet: +35 € / packet
  • All private transfers on trip:
    • min 2 - max 4 people: +610 € / per vehicle
    • min 5 - max 8 people: +980 € / per vehicle
  • Private Transfer – Bolzano to Nova Levante or Nova Levante to Bolzano:
    • min 2 - max 4 people: +130 € / per vehicle
    • min 5 - max 8 people: +170 € / per vehicle
  • Extra night(s): on request, according to availability
  • Price includes
    • Accommodation in double occupancy rooms 5 nights; half-board
    • Breakfast and dinner (from dinner Day 1 to breakfast on Day 6)
    • Private transfers to and from Niger Pass on Day 4
    • Tourist taxes
    • Digital travel packet
    • Use of our smartphone travel app with GPX files
    • Telephone support
    Price excludes
    • Travel to/from the Dolomites (flights, train, bus, etc.)
    • Lunches
    • Printed Travel Packet
    • Drinks & Personal Expenses
    • Travel Insurance
    • Private transfers (except on day 4)
    • Cable car/gondola, chair lift tickets
    • Entrance fees to tourist attractions
    • Everything that is not indicated in the "Included in Trip Price" section
    Options & supplements
    • Single Room Supplement : 3* hotel category 315€
    • 4* hotel category 1000€, not available in August
    • Printed travel packet: +35 € / packet
    • All private transfers on trip: min 2 - max 4 people: +610 € / per vehicle
    • min 5 - max 8 people: +980 € / per vehicle
    • Private Transfer – Bolzano to Nova Levante or Nova Levante to Bolzano: min 2 - max 4 people: +130 € / per vehicle
    • min 5 - max 8 people: +170 € / per vehicle
    • Extra night(s): on request, according to availability

    Your advisor

    Tania Gherli

    Tania Gherli

    Italy travel expert

    Call Write

    Technical and practical information

    Moderate to intermediate hiking options suitable for hikers with an average to good fitness level. The trails do not include technically difficult sections, although some days involve moderate climbs and descents. Daily walking ranges from 4 to 8 hours, with elevation gain between 340m/1115ft and 915m/3010ft per day. Many days offer alternative routes, shorter options and cable car support, allowing you to adjust the distance and difficulty according to your preference.

    Not necessary, center-based hotel itinerary.

    Public buses in this region are free to use with a hotel guest pass you must request during your check in process. Cable car transfers are not included in the trip price and must be paid on the spot. The private transfers on Day 4 are included in the trip price. Private transfers for other days can be set-up for a supplement.

    Minimum 2 people.

    6 days / 5 nights / 4 days of hiking.

    Start

    On Day 1, at hotel.

    Finish

    On Day 6, after breakfast and hotel check-out (~10am).

    We are happy to book additional nights. Prices upon request.

    Self-guided tour, without a human guide. We provide you with a digital travel packet that includes access to our smartphone guidance app, any vouchers and all the information you need to make your stay run smoothly. If you wish, we can provide you with a paper version of the travel packet with marked maps and travel pouch (with supplement). For any request for a paper travel packet: the files will be sent on site to the 1st hotel of the itinerary.

    Standard category – 3* hotel in Nova Levante Hotel Central or Hotel Schönwald or equivalent.

    Superior category – 4* hotel with SPA area in Nova Levante Romantik Hotel Post Weisses Rössl or Engel Gourmet and SPA hotel or equivalent.

    Half-board accommodation at the hotels (Breakfast and Dinner) each night. Lunch is not included but can be easily arranged at mountain huts along the hikes or by preparing picnics with items from local grocery stores (depending on your hotel location). Packed lunches can also be requested in advance at the hotel and paid for on site. *Please let us know if you follow a special diet or have any food allergies so that we may inform the hotel.

    Departure date at your convenience from the 01st of June until the 10th of October.

    Appointment / Break-up

    Trip Starting Destination

    This tour starts in Nova Levante/Carezza/Passo Costalunga, Italy.

    Trip Ending Destination

    This tour ends in Nova Levante/Carezza/Passo Costalunga, Italy.

    The nearest airports to Nova Levante and Carezza are Bolzano, Innsbruck and Verona. From any of these airports, you can continue your journey by train or bus.

    By Bus

    For example, from Milan to Bolzano You can take a Flix Bus and then you can continue with bus line 180 to Nova Levante and Carezza. - Flix bus: https://www.flixbus.com/.

    By Train + bus

    For example, from Milan to Bolzano (by train)

    Take a train from Milan (e.g., Milano Centrale) to Bolzano/Bozen; both high-speed and regional trains operate on this route (approximately 3-4.5 hours, depending on the service): https://www.trenitalia.com/it.html

    Upon arrival in Bolzano, you will reach the main train station, the central hub for onward travel to Nova Levante and Carezza.

    From Bolzano to Nova Levante / Carezza (by bus)

    From Bolzano's train station, take bus line 180, which provides a direct connection to Nova Levante and Carezza : https://www.suedtirolmobil.info/it

    The line offers convenient stops in the centre of Nova Levante, in Carezza, and near the lake and ski area.

    By Car

    To reach Nova Levante or Carezza by car, take the A22 Brenner motorway and exit at "Bolzano Nord / Val d'Ega". After leaving the motorway, follow the signs for Val d'Ega (Eggental). The scenic road leads you first toward Nova Levante, and by continuing along the same route you will arrive in Carezza and the surrounding lake and ski area.

    The following items are required for this trip unless otherwise noted. When packing, think layered clothing systems that work together and can be easily added or removed.

    • Hiking Boots/Shoes – waterproof, sturdy molded sole, deep tread and ideally well broken in
      (Note: buy boots/shoes 1/2 size to 1 size larger than street shoes to allow for feet swelling and thicker socks)
    • Hiking Socks – one pair for every day or two days of the trip. Hiking/Sport specific padded socks, no cotton please!
    • Sun Hat – wide brimmed hat or baseball cap/bandana combo
    • Warm Hat & Gloves – lightweight beanie and light-to-mid weight fleece or wool gloves
    • Hiking Shirts – non-cotton, breathable short sleeve and/or long sleeve shirts
      (Note: long sleeve shirts provide better sun protection)
    • Warm Top – mid-weight sweater or pullover of wicking material such as merino wool, fleece or polypropylene
    • Mid Layer Insulating Jacket – down-fill or synthetic-fill insulated "puffy" jacket or warm, heavy weight fleece jacket
    • Hiking Pants & Shorts – nylon pants AND shorts, zip-offs or leggings
    • Base Layer/Long Underwear – 1 pair of wicking tops and bottoms that are lightweight to midweight, synthetic wicking materials such as polyester, polypropylene, merino wool, etc.
    • Rain Gear – waterproof jacket and pants or high-quality poncho, breathable fabric such as Gore-Tex® or coated nylon. For the pants look for side zippers that will easily allow pulling them over footwear. A small umbrella can also be good.
    • Casual Clothing & Footwear – comfortable clothes and shoes to wear in the evening after activities.

    Important Note: Please, no cotton hiking clothes. Synthetic clothing is very efficient in drying quickly. Merino wool material clothing is also efficient in drying quickly, is comfortable to wear and has the advantage of not developing a bad odor after use.

    • Backpack – a 30-45 Liter sized comfortable pack with a hip belt and waterproof cover for use day-to-day while hiking.
    • Personal Luggage – small duffel bag, suitcase or backpack – for extra clothes and casual clothes. This bag stays at hotel.
    • Hydration System – 2+ liters capacity, either water bottles or bladder/hose system and an additional back-up water bottle
    • Trekking Poles – telescopic/adjustable poles to help reduce the impact on joints and support hikers in steep and/or rocky terrain. (Note: strongly recommended)
    • Headlamp – preferably with an L.E.D. bulb that works with AA or AAA batteries
      (Note: always test headlamp before trips and travel/pack without batteries in device)
    • Hiking Crampons – (especially for early and late season snow; less essential for high season)
    • Picnic/Lunch Kit – knife, plate or bowl, box with closeable lid, utensils, etc.
    • Phone & Charger – local sim card or international plan may be needed. Consider bringing a small power bank to use to recharge devices during trip activities.
    • Waterproof Travel Case or Pouch – used to keep important documents (i.e. passport, health/travel insurance, etc.) & phone safe from weather/water
    • Sunglasses, Sunscreen, & Lip Balm
    • First Aid Kit – see first aid kit suggestions below in "other" section
    • Personal Toilet Paper Kit – most public restrooms outside of lodging will have toilet paper available, but it is good to be prepared with a personal toilet paper kit to potentially use during portions of this tour. Along the trail, there may be the need to use natural settings for toilets (i.e. digging catholes, etc.) when there are no public toilets available. Kits should include toilet paper, wet wipes, sanitizer & sealable plastic bag(s) for carrying out used paper/wipes.
    • Toiletries
    • Contact Lenses & Glasses – if wearing contact lenses, please also bring back-up pair of glasses and contacts.
    • Prescription Medication – with emergency back-up supply.
    • Money – It is good to have some local currency; often smaller local businesses do not accept credit cards and/or prefer cash. Some public restrooms require small amounts of cash to use. If desired, tipping private drivers is acceptable and the average amount is just a few Euros per ride, but it is not expected and fully optional.

    OPTIONAL ITEMS:

    • 2-3 Face Masks; 1-2 Over-the-counter Rapid Antigen COVID-19 Tests (recommended but optional)
    • Travel Power Adapter – Electric power voltage in Italy is 230 V / 50 Hz and the plugs are F & L type
    • Support Braces – consider bringing any joint braces that may be currently needed or from past injuries (i.e. knee, ankle, elbow, etc.)
    • Sleep Mask & Ear Plugs
    • Bug Repellent
    • Quick Drying Towel or Bandana(s)

    PACKING FOR TRAVEL:

    It is recommended that you prepare your items in the following manner for your travels to this trip.

    "Carry-on Bag(s)" - This is the bag you will bring with you on the plane. We recommend all your pertinent information be in this bag (passport, travel documents, etc.) as well as your most important gear items (hiking footwear, jacket, prescription medication, etc.) in case any checked luggage items become lost or delayed.

    "Checked Bag(s)" - This bag will be checked and contain the rest of your personal items (clothing and gear, etc.).

    Please Note: Again, it is recommended to either wear or pack in your "Carry-on Bag" the main gear items you need for this trip vs. putting them in your checked "Travel Bag" (in case luggage is delayed). Hiking footwear is probably the hardest item to replace last minute if items become lost or delayed past the intended start date of the trip. Lost or delayed luggage has become more and more common in major airports for international travel since the global pandemic.

    LUGGAGE MANAGEMENT DURING TRIP:

    During this trip, the packing system needs to be in 2 bags.

    Extra Luggage - "Checked Bag(s)" & "Carry-on Bag(s)": This bag will contain all the items you want to bring along on the trip. Extra luggage is allowed on the trip and easily stored at hotel.

    Day Backpack: All guests need a backpack, which they will be responsible for carrying during trip activities. Items in this bag should include anything you may need throughout the day during the trip. (i.e. rain gear, warm layers, water, sunscreen/lip balm, snacks/food, camera/phone, etc.).

    FIRST AID KIT SUGGESTIONS:

    After years of experience planning adventure travel around the world, we've learned that anything can happen, and every traveler should carry a basic personal first aid kit. We want to ensure our guests are well-prepared and make smart informed travel decisions. In many of the places we operate trips, it may be challenging to find certain medications and/or first aid supplies, and sometimes common items you desire may not be available in the destination you are travelling. That's why it's good to be prepared and carry a small supply of first aid supplies, any prescription medication, and/or over-the-counter medications you may require during your travels.

    We recommend discussing your travel plans, vaccination requirements, and any over-the-counter medication usage with your primary healthcare provider before embarking on our trips. This helps ensure you have a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

    Here is a basic list of what we think makes a good personal travel first aid kit:

    • Medications – Brands of your choice, all medications should be either prescribed directly by your doctor or discussed with a doctor prior to use.
      • Prescription Drugs – Any prescriptions you have from your doctor with back-up doses (always kept with you in carry-on luggage)
      • Epinephrine – Consider bringing multiple doses of Epinephrine (EpiPen) if you have any severe known allergies and have a prescription from your doctor.
      • Pain Relief – Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Non-Aspirin: Comparable to Tylenol – brand of choice
      • Antihistamine – Diphen: Comparable to Benadryl – brand of choice
      • Non-Drowsy Allergy Relief – Loratadine: Comparable to Claritin – brand of choice
      • Antacid/Heartburn Relief – Bismuth: Comparable to Pepto-Bismol, Antacid tablet – brand of choice
      • Anti-Diarrheal – Loperamide hydrochloride: Comparable to Imodium – brand of choice
      • Cold/Flu Medicine – brand of choice
    • Electrolyte Replacement/Drink Mix – brand of choice
    • Creams – Antibiotic ointment, Anti-Itch: Hydrocortisone, Arnica
    • Eye Problems: Dry/Itchy – Eye drops
    • Feminine Hygiene – Tampons
    • Wound Care – a various pack of bandages, antiseptic swabs
    • Blister Care – blister kit made up of items of your choice
    • Sun Protection – sunscreen, SPF lip balm
    • Various Items – Athletic tape/" KT Tape", Nail clippers, Tweezers, Small bottle of hand sanitizer, Sewing kit (clothing/button repairs), Disposable surgical gloves (1-2 pairs)

    Italy

    Capital: Rome

    Population: ~58,870,760

    Documents

    Travellers from the European Union, including children, need a valid identity card or passport. Check with the authorities in your home country for the conditions of entering this destination.

    Health/Insurance

    Do not forget your card and/or policy details for your health insurance and/or travel insurance.

    In the Dolomites, the region is often bilingual: people speak either German or Italian or both. Tourist area employees almost always speak some English.

    Calling Italy: + 39

    European Emergency Number: 112

    Tourism Office in Italy

    Visit: Discover Italy: Official Tourism Website - Italia.it

    Italy is a Member-State of the European Union and uses its uniform currency – the Euro €. Italy, as is the case with the other Member-States of the E.U. uses eight coins as follows: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and 1 and 2 Euros. The banknotes are issued in the following denominations: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Euros. Currency exchange rates are clearly displayed in every bank that accepts currency exchange, while credit card holders may acquire money from the ATMs of the collaborating banks. Italian banks are open for the public from 8:00 to 13:00 and from 14:30 to 16:30 Monday to Friday. They are closed on Public Holidays. Euros can also be exchanged for notes of other foreign currencies at exchange offices that are situated at the airport and certain main ports, in the larger cities, as well as at many tourist destinations. A passport is required when exchanging currencies. Italy more than other EU destinations, still prefer cash in most settings, but credit card use is becoming more and more available.

    Central European Time (CET/UTC+1) and Central European Summer Time (CEST/UTC+2) during daylight saving time.

    • Maps TABACCO, Carte e Piante, Turistiche

    via Della Rosta, 15 ‑ 33100 UDINE ‑ ITALY tel 19/ 3934221940

    number 3, 10 and 31. Scale: 1:25,000.

    • Map KOMPASS Editions. Scale: 1:50,000, number 55 and 57

    Reviews

    This trip doesn't have reviews yet. Discover what travelers say about similar trips.

    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★    Comment sent by SIMON in September

    Another point to note: (1) You should warn your clients that, on some of the routes you’ve suggested to me, there are sections that people prone to vertigo or who have a fear of heights may find difficult to navigate—even in good weather; I won’t even begin to describe what could happen in bad weather, let alone during a storm. (2) A note regarding the picnics offered by the mountain huts: two sandwich rolls and an apple—that’s what the picnics consist of for 15–20€. (3) To get to Lake Braies, you can take bus 442 from Dobbiaco; what you don’t mention is that “it’s mandatory to reserve a seat.” You can do this on the PRAGS.BZ website (€7 one-way). You cannot board the bus without a reservation. 4) I didn’t use the maps you sent me; if you’d like, I can return them, as I don’t think I’ll need them in the future.

    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★    Comment sent by SIMON in September

    Overall, I was satisfied with the trek (physical difficulty, scenic beauty). Good physical fitness is required. Comfortable mountain huts, warm hospitality, and excellent food. The roadbook matched the itineraries. The GPS app was useful.

    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★    Comment sent by Matt in August

    Doing the AV1 trek was a truly once in a lifetime experience we will never forget, the Grand Angle team helped make that experience more memorable and less stressful. I really appreciate their efforts.

    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★    Comment sent by Lquren in August

    The views were absolutely breathtaking! The accomodations were clean, comfortable, charming, and served delicious meals! The logistics and details of the trip were planned for us flawlessly. A truly unforgettable trip.

    Not quite the trip you had in mind?

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