For an altogether unique skiing experience in the lesser known mountain range of the Italian Alps, rifugios (which means mountain huts in Italian) give a flavour of Italy like you’ve never tasted before. An exhilarating ski safari that takes you on a tour of the dramatic Dolomites, stopping off at a collection of wonderfully simple, but very alpine chic, mountain huts along the way. The whole experience is grounded by nature; everywhere you turn you’ll be surrounded by scenic views of towering pines and jagged mountaintops. Lose yourself in the wilderness as you hop from hut-to-hut, surrendering to the beauty of the landscapes.  On the whole, the rifugios are modest abodes, and range from basic huts offering cold running water and a few large rooms shared by multiple guests to homely-style lodges that offer private rooms, or rooms with two or four beds, and community showers with hot water as opposed to cold! It depends how back-to-basic you’re really prepared to go. Regardless of your choice in hut, the food served is hearty and delicious, and the chance to sample the region’s traditional, flavoursome cuisine — think pappardelle con funghi (butterfly pasta with mushrooms), wood fired pizza and steaming macaroni and bean soup.

The locations of the rifugios vary, and can be tailored to your choice of experience and a range of scenic views  Some are easier to get to, while others, like Rifugio Lagazuoi, can only be accessed on foot or by cable car. The higher and more remote rifugios offer some of the most spectacular snowscapes you’ve ever seen. The patio at Rifugio Lagazuoi is a particular highlight — the panoramic vistas will make you feel like you’re sitting on the edge of the world. And of course, you’ll have optimum access to some of the best ski terrain in the Italian Alps; all 1,200km from Alta Badia to Civetta, to the Marmolada, to Lagazuoi and Cinque Torri, this truly is one of the most magical ways to explore the beauty of the Dolomites.

We run a few different trips in the Dolomites depending on how adventurous you want to be and based on your ski touring ability and fitness. We have trips for anyone from confident intermediate skiers through to professional freeriders. This trip works for anyone from singles, through to larger groups.

The best combination of snow conditions and good weather are from February through to April. It is possible to run earlier than this some years too.