iRISE TRIPS
ITALY
HIKING THE DOLOMITES WITH iRISE ABOVE
August 30 – September 9, 2023
Do you wish to become the author and creator of your own story, so you can heal, reclaim your power, and discover your authentic self after breast cancer? If so, look no more! Feel inspired, empowered, and supported to live a great story by joining your sisters of strength on this incredible adventure of a lifetime in Italy. Hike through the spectacular eastern Dolomites, sleep in remote mountain huts, meet artisans and cheesemakers, and walk through forests as you get a taste of mountain life high in the Italian Dolomites with AdventureWomen and the iRise Above Foundation.
Cima Sappada to Mount Tuglia
After arriving in Venice, you’ll travel north to the heart of the Dolomites Region to a charming chalet in the historic center of Cima Sappada which will be your home for the next two nights. After checking in, enjoy a welcome drink before taking a walk through the delightful village. This evening, in a welcoming local restaurant, you get to know your iRise Above travel companions while enjoying a delicious Italian dinner.
Begin your next morning with a two-hour hike to Mount Tuglia alongside your expert Italian guide who will help you imagine life on the mountainside, far above the beautiful valleys below. As always, you will also be accompanied by an iRise Above Ambassador who is committed to making your experience fun, rewarding, and memorable. Stop at a local mountain dairy where you can enjoy a lunch made entirely with local products before taking the afternoon to explore on your own.
Calvi Hut, Lake Boraglia, and Vuezzis
You’ll officially set out through the Dolomites the next day, as you head north through the marmot trail toward the imposing Mount Peralba. Continue your ascent to the Calvi Hut which sits at an altitude of 7,110 feet. Relax and sip a warm drink or a crisp beer while you overlook some of the most beautiful peaks of the region.
The longest hike of your journey awaits you on the following day, as you travel on foot through a beautiful forest that is home to idyllic streams, mountain trails, and timeless farmhouses. Enjoy a picnic lunch at a height of 5,740 feet on the shores of Lake Bordaglia which is a part of the larger Natural Reserve that is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, marmots, eagles, and chamois.
After a morning to relaxation, lace up your boots for a hike to Mount Coglians. On a clear day, you can experience a dramatic view spanning the Dolomites from the Adriatic Sea to Austria! Stop at the trailside honey and cheese producer for a tasty sample before arriving at your resting place for the evening.
Make your way through beautiful landscapes and authentic villages to the lovely mountain hamlet of Vuezzis, which is perched at a height of 2,890 feet in the Degano Valley. The village hosts the San Nicola Church, which houses an outstanding collection of medieval frescos.
For a relaxing recovery day, visit an artisanal workshop that creates ceramic pottery before enjoying a slice (or two!) of pizza and taking part in a cooking lesson with a local family in the tiny village of Vuezzis.
Rigolato to the Pesarina Valley
Continuing your hike along the Degano Valley, you’ll reach the village of Rigolato after passing through a formidable forest of beeches that tower above you at a height of 100 feet. Climb to the top of Mount Talm and enjoy a picnic lunch at 5,680 feet before journeying on to your home for the evening.
Enjoy beautiful views of the Pesarine Dolomites and the Carnic Alps as you hike through the Pesarina Valley to the mountain village of Pesariis. Nestling in the heart of the Dolomites, it is known as the “Town of the Clocks” and boasts a whopping population of 178.
Begin your day with some leisure time before taking a light hike up to ramble among the historic stone buildings of piccolo Stavoli di Orias. Tonight you will celebrate an amazing adventure at a festive homemade farewell dinner prepared by the hostess at our comfortable farmhouse.
Return to the airport in Venice for your flight home. While everyone will undoubtedly wish to continue on, everyone will say goodbye with memories of shared experiences with your new iRise Above friends!
