South Tyrol, 6 days, hut-to-hut hiking
The Dolomites get compared to the Alps constantly, but the jagged, pale limestone spires here are geologically their own thing — and the region’s rifugi (mountain huts) network means you can hike hut-to-hut for days without carrying camping gear or returning to a valley town each night.
Days 1–2: Alpe di Siusi
Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow makes an easy, scenic start — the Sciliar/Schlern massif frames every photo, and the cable car up from Ortisei means the first day doesn’t need to be a grind.
Days 3–4: Tre Cime di Lavaredo
The three distinctive peaks of Tre Cime are the Dolomites’ most-photographed sight for good reason — the loop trail around their base takes about 4 hours and passes two rifugi where you can stop for lunch with the peaks directly overhead.
Days 5–6: Lago di Braies
Arrive before 8am — this turquoise lake’s small parking area fills fast and the crowds that build through the day change the experience completely. The lakeside walk plus a hike up to Rifugio Biella gives a quieter alternative view down over the water.
See also our Tuscany hill towns guide for a very different pace of Italy.