Hike, E-Bike and Canoe in the Dolomites
An adventure through Italy's UNESCO-listed Dolomite Mountains via iconic peaks, wild trails, lush valleys and hidden lakes
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with local, expert, English-speaking guidesHotel & Farm Stay
3 nights in a 4-star hotel and 2 nights in a farmhouseMeals
All breakfasts and dinnersTransfers
Airport transfers and everything in betweenEquipment
All your biking and canoeing equipmentSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 12 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
…
What's it like?
Trek one of Europe’s most striking mountain ranges, tackling the Cinque Torri trail and the Mondeval high plateau
Pedal forest trails up Mount Fertazza (6,824 ft) on e-bikes, for staggering views of some of the world's most famous spires
Canoe in the emerald lake waters of Lago del Mis, a hidden gem surrounded by a wild basin and sparkling waterfalls
Stay in a 4-star mountain spa hotel and an agriturismo with lush surroundings, enjoying delicious local food
Key Information
Day 1
To the mountains!
Driving
Meet your host at Venice Airport and jump in your transfer to Selva di Cadore, right in the heart of Italy's iconic Dolomites – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check in and enjoy the sight of some of the most famous peaks such as towering Mount Pelmo, the spires of Cernera and jagged Civetta, right from your hotel's doorstep. Meet up with your group for dinner, chat through the itinerary with your host, then get some rest before the adventure ahead.
Day 2
Hike into the breathtaking Dolomites
Hiking
Kick off your adventure with a superb hike from the iconic Passo Giau, one of the most scenic passes in the Belluno Dolomites, to the high plains of Mondeval di Sora. Along this plateau, a Mesolithic burial site was found in 1987, along with the remains of the Mondeval Man who lived in this area thousands of years ago. Today, the skeleton is preserved at the Vittorino Cazzetta museum in Selva di Cadore (which you may opt to visit later this afternoon, after your hike). Trekking along undulating trails, you'll be surrounded by the most majestic views of lush valleys and iconic peaks, including Monte Pelmo, Croda da Lago, Monte Cernera, and the imposing wall of the Lastoi de Formin. It won't take long to see why this is considered one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the world!
Day 3
Bike through the peaks
E-bike
Hang up your boots – this morning you'll leave the hotel on the saddle of your electric mountain bike to cycle gravel trails and forest roads leading all the way to the top of Mount Fertazza at 6,824 ft. First, tackle a steady 4 mi climb to the Fertazza hut, winding among wonderful spruce and larch forests – thanks to your e-bike, the ascent will feel smooth and manageable. A further 1 mi push will take you all the way to the mountaintop, where your efforts will be rewarded by one of the most iconic views in the whole of Dolomites, with the towering Marmolada, Averau and Pelmo peaks dominating the valley below. You'll stop here for a memorable lunch at the famous Belvedere hut, where you can tuck into some hearty dishes among the breathtaking natural surroundings. After lunch, begin your thrilling descent back to the hotel along a mix of easy gravel and off-road trails, passing scenic pastures along the way.
Day 4
Hike Averau and the Cinque Torri
Hiking
Driving
This morning you'll hit another iconic hiking trail in the Averau-Nuvolau Dolomites group, with 360° views that stretch out across the peaks. After a short transfer to the trailhead, you'll set off on a relatively easy path followed by an ascent over boulders and rocky terrain towards Forcella Averau, offering a splendid panorama of the Lagazuoi and Tofane mountains. Continue on in the direction of the iconic Cinque Torri, famous for their rugged beauty but also for the unique open-air museum tucked away near these majestic towers. Take your time to properly explore the remains of trenches and walkways used during the First World War before continuing towards the Falzarego Pass, where a vehicle will pick you up for your onward transfer (around 1.5 hours). You'll be taken to the wonderful Mis Valley, a hidden gem in the Dolomites. Your home for the next two nights in is a cozy, family-run farmhouse surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Day 5
Canoe the turquoise Lake del Mis
Canoeing
Wake to the sounds of nature and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your agriturismo. Then set off to explore the wild beauty of the Mis Valley by canoe, paddling across the turquoise waters of Lago del Mis, one of Italy’s most striking lakes. Though man-made, it sits in a spectacularly untouched Alpine setting in the heart of the Monti del Sole and Vette Feltrine. You’ll hop out on foot to visit La Soffia waterfall and the Cadini del Brenton, dramatic cascades and rock pools carved out by nature. If the weather’s kind, you’ll also have time to relax by the lake, soaking up the sun or sipping something cold. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner and toast the end of your Dolomite adventure.
*In August and September, canoeing takes place on the Piave River instead. By late summer, the lake's water levels are often too low for paddling. To make the most of the conditions, you’ll drift along the turquoise Piave as it flows south into the renowned wine region at the foot of the Dolomites. You’ll meet your guides at Ponte nelle Alpi and set off westward, with the river winding past Belluno and through the lower Valbelluna. Pause for a picnic on the riverbank, then continue downstream to San Felice bridge, where your host will be waiting to take you back to your lodging. The water can be chilly, even on sunny days, so wetsuits are provided. Be sure to pack a quick-dry towel, swimsuit, and water shoes or sandals. The day before, you’ll stop at a local supermarket during the transfer from Passo Falzarego to Fattoria dei Fiori, giving you the chance to pick up your lunch and any other bits you might want for the river.
Day 6
Goodbye Italy!
Driving
Bid farewell to the stunning scenery of the Dolomites, as this morning you'll leave your accommodation after breakfast and head back to Venice Airport for your flight home. Arrivederci!
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Venice Marco Polo Airport
14:30 on Day 1
Ends
Venice Marco Polo Airport
11:00 on Day 6
Transfers
On Day 1 your driver will meet you at Venice Marco Polo Airport (by 2:30 PM at the latest; exact timings will be confirmed by your host before your trip, depending on the group's incoming flights). You'll be transferred to Selva di Cadore, which is approximately two hours away. On Day 6, your host will transfer you from Sospirolo back to Venice Marco Polo Airport, where you'll arrive at around 11:00 AM. This can be dependent on traffic, so please don't book a flight departing before 2:00 PM in case of delays.
Please note that alternative transfers between the airport and the Dolomites are very expensive, while connections by public transportation are limited and often not available: we therefore recommend that to join the group transfer, and ensure you leave ample time between your flight arrival time and transfer departure time of 2:30 PM. Your transfer won't be able to wait much beyond 2:30 PM, so in the case of significant delays, the best option is to get an official taxi which you can find just outside the terminal. This will be an expensive option (approx. €300) for a one-way transfer to Selva di Cadore. For more info and bookings you can contact +39 041 5964 (24-hour service) and for more details on the fare that will be applied, ask the taxi staff before getting on board. Please remember to let your host know if your journey is delayed.
Travel options
Venice Marco Polo Airport is accessible via various direct flights from the UK and mainland Europe. Flights from the US generally connect through Madrid, London or Frankfurt.
For those who wish to avoid flying, Venezia Mestre is well connected with high-speed trains from London, via Paris. The journey will take an average of 21 hours and usually involves two changes.
Given the trip begins with an afternoon transfer from Venice Airport, perhaps consider arriving the day before and take this opportunity to visit the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage city of canals, art and romance. When visiting Venice, check first if you are required to pay the Venice Access Fee - (applicable to some dates only)
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2 – Day 3
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 4 – Day 5
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 6
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
All breakfasts and dinners are included on this trip. Lunches aren’t included, but you can pick something up each morning from a local deli or supermarket before the day’s activities. Alternatively, you can grab a hot meal or some refreshments at the mountain huts where you’ll stop for breaks along the way.
During your first three nights at Hotel Orso Grigio in Pescul (Selva di Cadore), you’ll get to try some regional specialties—like potato gnocchi with smoked cottage cheese or pumpkin, canederli (bread dumplings with speck), and hearty barley soup. Polenta with mushrooms and pastin (a traditional Belluno dish made with seasoned ground pork or beef) also frequently appears on the menu.
For the last two nights, you’ll stay at Fattoria dei Fiori in Sospirolo. On Day 4, enjoy a home-cooked meal prepared by your host—a relaxed evening with great food and good company in a beautiful setting. On your final night (Day 5), you’ll head into the nearby town of Belluno for pizza night—you are in Italy, after all! Since the accommodation is in a quiet village without a nearby store, your local host will also have a small selection of snacks and drinks available (payable locally using an honesty box system). We recommend bringing bills (in Euros) for this.
Vegetarians, vegans, pescatarians, lactose intolerance, and gluten intolerance can be provided for on this trip, though in some locations, the options may be more limited. Please ensure that you note your dietary requirements on your passenger information form via your booking. If you have specific dietary needs, we suggest bringing a few of your own trail snacks to keep you fueled on the go. Should you wish to check other dietary restrictions or allergies before booking, please contact our Customer Experience team for assistance.
What is the accommodation like?
Pescul (Selva di Cadore)
Your first three nights will be spent at the 4-star Orso Grigio Hotel. Located right in front of the famous Civetta ski slopes in Pescul, it's 2 miles from Selva di Cadore and approximately 19 miles from the famous Cortina d'Ampezzo. This comfortable mountain retreat features a wellness center with two Finnish saunas, sensory showers, a Turkish bath, and relaxation area, perfect for relaxing after an active day out on the trails. Accommodation will usually be on a twin-share basis* in ensuite rooms with pine furnishings, TVs, and stunning views. The hotel also has a restaurant, which serves a delicious breakfast buffet and tasty local cuisine for dinner.
*Your host will arrange rooms on a twin-share basis where possible. Due to the popularity of the location in the summer season and the limited number of rooms available, occasionally a triple room may be allocated to the group. While it is not possible to pre-request a single room at this accommodation as an optional extra, if the hotel has had a late cancelation there may be the option available to upgrade at check-in for a supplement, which is payable locally.
Sospirolo
You'll spend the final two nights of your trip in an agriturismo called the Fattoria dei Fiori ('flower farm'). This beautifully converted farmhouse is immersed in a private woodland area, with a botanical garden and farm. Lodging will be in a mix of twin rooms and apartments (occasionally, a triple room may be allocated to the group). All rooms are en suite, and are tastefully decorated using local materials and handicrafts. The property includes a cozy dining area and kitchen, where daily breakfasts will be served, as well as a special dinner prepared by your host on one of the two nights (see the Meals section for more information).
Upgrades
Due to the style and limited capacity of the accommodation used on this trip, a private room upgrade is not available as an optional extra.
This trip has been rated as Moderate
This trip requires a decent level of fitness and you must feel comfortable in mountain environments, although none of the included activities are hugely demanding and no previous experience is necessary. You'll have expert guides to show you the ropes and help you navigate the e-biking and canoeing. On the hiking trails, you'll be accompanied by an expert mountain guide.
The bike ride up Mount Fertazza is best enjoyed if you feel comfortable riding an electronically assisted bike off-road; however, no technical mountain biking skills are needed and you'll have a bike fitting and briefing before setting off. Should you wish to opt out of this activity, there is the opportunity to get to Mount Fertazza by cable car and meet the group there for lunch.
The included hikes include some trails over uneven, rocky terrain and the occasional short steep ascent, but they are overall of moderate difficulty so should be manageable by anyone who can handle hiking in mountain terrain for a few hours. The guide will assess the group's fitness, so there may be the option to slightly extend some of the treks, should everyone feel comfortable with it.
What will I need to carry?
During the activities, you'll only need to carry a personal backpack with your essential items for the day; you can leave your main luggage at your hotel. On Day 4 your host will transfer your main luggage from Selva di Cadore to Sospirolo.
The Dolomite Mountains offer some of the best weather in all of the Alps. The summer months (mid-July to September) have warm temperatures and plenty of sun. However, it is also not unheard of for snow to fall on higher ground during the summer, and patches of snow may still be present into July. While the average maximum temperature may reach 86°F on the valley floor, it may feel cooler in the wind or in the shade. July and August are the hottest months and carry the greatest risk of thunderstorms, which can be torrential and usually occur in the afternoon. Being well-prepared and equipped for all these eventualities is essential.
Great people and great trip.
incredible
Excellent few days in the dolomites. Very well organised and felt like we were getting a personalised holiday by locals who took us off the beaten track. Highly recommended.
Friendly Dolomiti
Our hosts for the week, Miki and Fabrizio were perfect in terms of their knowledge and care of us. They partner with local guides and companies to give a very authentic experience. We always felt safe whilst sometimes being pushed to try things we had not done before. Thanks so much MBA, looking forward to next year's adventure!
Amazing experience - fantastic hosts
Had a fantastic time, brilliant adventures in the mountains for three days, then canoeing… all the locals team we met from the hotel staff to the mountain guide have been brilliant. Miki and her husband have been very very good and looked after us…
Bucket-List Adventure, Premium Hospitality!
As a bucket list trip we dreamed of and brought other friends along on - our expectations and experiences were blown out of the water! The planning and organization by Miki and Fabrizio is top-notch, going above and beyond to make sure our group was comfortable and felt at home. The hiking, biking, and canoeing guides were very friendly and gave us so much knowledge and excitement along the way - tailoring the experience to the group collectively. The excursions and accommodations were 11/10 - with this being our first MBA experience the whole group was excited to look into more in the near future!
Fantastic Dolomites Adventure
I had an amazing time in the Dolomites. The hikes were absolutely incredible - esspecially the 5 Towers, which had the most stunning views. We ended up canoeing on the river instead of the lake (which had been drained for the season), which at first felt a bit daunting but actually turned out to be more fun and adventurous.
The guides were brilliant - really patient and never made us feel rushed. It meant we could just take our time, enjoy the scenery, and really make the most of each day. The hotels and the farmhouse stay were lovely too - really comfortable, in gorgeous spots, and the four-course dinners at the hotel were exactly what we needed after the long days.
The only real downside was when a storm meant our biking day was cancelled. Our host Miki did offer alternatives, but swapping a whole day of biking for a 30 minute massage left us with a lot of time to fill. Luckily, the hotel spa filled some of the time, but it would have been nice to have a more solid Plan B ready for bad weather. There also wasn't any flexibility in the itinerary at all. To be able to adapt the days a bit may have meant we could have fitted the biking in, even if it was for a shorter time period.
Overall the trip was fantastic and full of unforgettable moments. With a bit more flexibility in the itinerary and stronger backup options, it would’ve been perfect.
Good and Bad!
Brilliant group who for us made the holiday great fun!
The first hotel was excellent with friendly & helpful staff, food in abundance and in a good location. The walking and canoeing guides were fantastic, patient and caring. They kept us safe but allowed us to have challenging adventures. Our group rescued the day when our e bike adventure was cancelled due to predicted bad weather. The self guided low walk in the rain was one of our highlights of the holiday!
Unfortunately the poor communication skills of our host impacted our holiday. Arriving 90 minutes late for our initial airport pick up for transfer to our hotel set the tone of the relationship with the group. This was reinforced by a reliance on text as the main form of communication and limited in person contact. There was a recurring theme of inflexibility and confusion.
Our main concern was the complete lack of planning for a Plan B when predicted bad weather caused our e bike adventure to be cancelled. There was no flexibility with the programme and a 30 minute massage in place of a five hour e bike adventure was a disappointing alternative. From our experience you may need to be prepared to have none of the adventures offered if the weather is bad. Surely it is not unreasonable to expect appropriate bad weather options to be in place in areas known for heavy rain at times. There needs to be deliverable plan Bs in place rather than knee jerk suggestions that were undeliverable. Greater attention need to be given to building good relationships with groups.
Overall a good and bad experience with the friendship and care of the group itself the overriding memory of our adventures together.
Thank you Karen for your detailed and honest feedback on your trip to the Dolomites in September. This itinerary is under review post-season with the local host, as there are several aspects we’d like to see improved for our customers next year, and feedback like yours has been incorporated into that process. Summer 2025 has seen some exceptional storms in the Dolomites, causing significant challenges for trip operations and it was highly unfortunate that it occurred during the cycling day on your trip, which is the activity on the itinerary least-adaptable in bad weather for safety reasons. The host has acknowledged that a better bad-weather contingency plan needs to be considered and they are making operational changes in preparation for 2026 which we believe will increase the flexibility within the itinerary. On-trip communications from the host are also an area that we are paying close attention to for next season. We’re glad to hear your group had a fun time together in the Dolomites, and in particular enjoyed the canoeing and the hikes. We really hope you’ll return for another MBA Adventure and our Customer Support Team would be happy to assist you with selecting that next trip. James - Much Better Adventures
Beautiful Dolomites
We had a fantastic week in the Dolomites, exploring mountains and rivers with knowledgeable, friendly guides. The scenery was absolutely stunning, and the food was just as memorable, especially at the Orso Grigio Hotel. Coming back to a delicious 4-course dinner every night was the perfect way to end a day of adventuring. Miki and Fabrizio really took care of us and made the whole group feel so welcome.
An amazing experience
Our trip to the Dolomites was an unforgettable experience, thanks to the incredible planning and attention to detail from start to finish. Miki made everything seamless, from clear pre trip communication, to well thought out itineraries. Our guides for each of the activities provided excellent support, and made sure everyone felt safe and comfortable. I would recommend this trip to anyone looking for a well organized, supportive, and truly rewarding adventure.
Incredible experience! You could do
Incredible experience! You could do this as a solo traveler or with a group and have fun either way! Miki is an incredibly accommodating host, and goes through so many logistics to ensure your experience is top notch. For the price you pay, this is a steal. You would not be able to get this immersive of experience at this price point without local guides like Miki and her team.
Superb Dolomites Trip
We had a fantastic week in the Dolomites, the activities were superb, stunning locations, friendly guides and challenging adventures. Miki was a great host and the organisation of the logistics, transfers etc was excellent. The accommodation was great at the Origi, food was lovely and wellness spa was nice at the end of each day, the stay at the Agriturismo was really nice, and a great way to finish the holiday.
Amazing trip, Miki and Fabrizio
Amazing trip, Miki and Fabrizio were great hosts and all the guides were competent and knowledgeable, really can’t fault them. The accommodation was perfect. We also happened to be lucky enough to be with a wonderful group of people which made the adventure even better!
An adventure that has everything
I chose this trip due to the varied activities and to try something new. The trip gave everything that I was looking for, a relaxed atmosphere, knowledgeable and friendly guides and absolutely stunning scenery. This was my second trip with MuchBetter and on both occasions the people on the trip with me were wonderful!
Beautiful Dolomites
Such an amazing experience with a fabulous bunch of people. The hiking, e-biking and kayaking were unforgettable, we loved every second. The guides for the activities were superb and very knowledgable. The accommodation provided is not particularly set up for solo travellers and although this didn’t effect our party directly it did affect people in our group.
Our dolomite trip far exceeded
Our dolomite trip far exceeded our expectations, first class accommodation, all the guides were friendly and informative and our hosts were splendid. All ready looking at a trip for ‘26’
We thoroughly enjoyed our trip.
We thoroughly enjoyed our trip. The programme was well balanced. The hotels were good, as was the food, especially for vegetarians.
We enjoyed the whole experience
We enjoyed the whole experience which was very well organised and we felt was good value for money. The hosts and guides were very attentive and the accommodation lovely
Fabulous holiday with amazing hosts
My wife and I had never done an organised activity holiday before so we’re a bit unsure what we would find, but Miki and Fabrizio ( our hosts) and all the guides were absolutely brilliant. The accommodation and activities were fabulously well planned and of highest quality and we could not have been luckier with the weather. All in all a superb holiday topped off by some great other guests.
Dolomites Adventure
The accommodation, adventure, guides and itinerary was brilliant. It was such a beautiful place to see and i'm grateful for the new friends I made. However, our host Mikki was a little high-handed on several occasions which left us feeling uncomfortable around her. There was also an incident when her husband acted extremely unprofessionally. These left a sour note to the trip which otherwise would have been perfect.
Dear Natalie, Thank you again for your feedback on your trip. Whilst we are glad you had an overall positive experience in the Dolomites, we were really sorry to hear your experience was marred by an incident involving the local host. This has been addressed internally to ensure this does not happen again. On behalf of the local host, Miki, we sincerely apologise for Fabrizio's inappropriate outburst and any distress it may have caused. What happened is not reflective of the typical experience on this or other MBA trips, all our hosts and their team members are expected to respond to challenging situations with calm professionalism. We deeply regret that this bad experience has affected your view of MBA, and impaired what was otherwise a good trip for you.
Naomi - MBA Customer Support
Amazing experience
Loved every minute of the trip. Very well organised. Great group of people too. An unforgettable experience
Hike, Bike, canoe the Dolomites
Awesome adventure in the beautiful Dolomites. Well organised and a great combination of activities. I was a solo traveller but was with a great group of people
Very Good but for an Unacceptable Outburst
I would have given 4-5 stars, but for Fabriccio's, (Miki's husband) very demeaning, very loud and angry outburst.
We had just completed the hike on 25 Jun and were in the car park, waiting to go the new accommodation. Of the two vehicles, only one had its boot open and my luggage was not there. I therefore opened the boot of the closed vehicle to check if my luggage was there. Just as the door opened, Fabriccio suddenly appeared, raised both hands and with a very red face, shouted something in Italian. It sounded like he was scolding a small kid. Everyone in the car park heard it, including several outsiders.
Perhaps he was upset that two soft bags rolled out of the boot. He never bothered to ask me what I wanted, but closed the boot and stomped off. For the rest of the day, the mood of the group was very tense. He never apologise.
I see two very serious issues here. Firstly, the fact that he even dared to behave as he did showed a total lack of respect for customers. Secondly, I have no confidence that, if there were an emergency, he would be able to react calmly and in the best interest of his customers.
I am afraid it would take a very big stretch for me to return or refer others to MBA. On the contrary, whenever MBA's name comes up, I will always remember this incident.
Dear Ang, We are truly sorry to hear about the upsetting incident you described on June 25th and appreciate your honest feedback. On behalf of the local host, Miki, we sincerely apologise for Fabrizio's inappropriate outburst and any distress it may have caused. This has been addressed internally to ensure this does not happen again. What happened is not reflective of the typical experience on this or other MBA trips, all our hosts and their team members are expected to respond to challenging situations with calm professionalism. We deeply regret that this bad experience has affected your view of MBA, and impaired what was otherwise a good trip for you.
Naomi - MBA Customer Support
Fantastic 4 days!
Views on the hikes were out of this world. I was very glad of taking my trekking poles, though most managed perfectly well without. First hike was 10 miles, and the second was only 6 - but there was alot of scrambling over rocky ground. The biking was loads of fun, and not too challenging. We covered about 15 miles with 1000m of climbing which was so easy due to the ebikes! The canoeing was the most challenging - mostly down to our ineptitude - but we had such a laugh. Good time had by all. Great hosts, lovely guides, wonderful group!
Dolomites September 24.
The stand out moments for me were the 'hut' stops during our hikes & bike tour. Two of these are very modern ski top fully stocked restaurant/bars with panoramic views. These were a great reward after trecking for hours. I loved stopping for our lunch to re-group & have a cool down drink & time to really enjoy & take in the scenery. I enjoyed getting to know each of the group during the week. The Spa in the hotel was top class (3 nights)👌. So make every effort to get there! Loved the cold hose in the steam room. I had a massage after the second day of activities -highly recommend that. Sooooo relaxing. Miki our co-ordinator was most helpful in organising food requirements for me & is a wonderful advocate for the Dolomites 😁. Thanks Miki!! The beauty of this trip is that you are picked up & dropped off at your specified location & therefore there is no time wasted looking up where to go or what to do.....All is ready & waiting- all you do is start the activity. I really enjoyed the canoeing on the last day as it was a total change of scenery from the rough terrain of the higher mountains & it was so much fun. Yes, I fell in & got wet 🙈 but it wasn't dangerous. (Tip: make sure you find out how to tie the wet bag they give you for your boat AND tie it properly) Jonny my co-pilot took great care of me & our canoe 🛶. I found the bike day 🚲 hard mainly due to not having bicycle shorts with me. So a tip to any future attendees- bring padded bike shorts with you or possibly request a more padded seat from the guides starting off. The electric bikes are brilliant on flat tarred road- not so much fun for me on rocky paths. The guides on the bike tour were lovely friendly & helpful lads- appreciated one staying with me as I found the lose rocks challenging to navigate. The change to Mariana's beautiful farm house on the 4th day was lovely. She is a wonderful host & we even had a Yoga session on our last morning up in her beautiful loft room by one of our talented group members: Alister who took great care in teaching us the Shavasana pose. 😁 All these bits together made for a great trip. Thanks everyone!
Phenomenal
A brilliant holiday, some of the best fun I've had in ages, in beautiful scenery.
The walks could be pretty unrelenting, and the cycling was perfect for me but a bit easy for the most experienced riders in the group, but overall it was among the most enjoyable and rewarding holidays I've ever had.
Amazing trip!
Really enjoyed this amazing trip! Excellent accommodation staying in a lovely hotel with excellent food in the nice small town of Pescul for three nights which feels like it’s in the heart of the Dolomites. The spa at the hotel was a welcome addition to relax after a day hiking. Both hikes were beautiful, including a hike through Cinque Torre and included stops at the mountain huts for lunch. A really fun day on e-bikes with great knowledgable guides. The agritourismo was a beautiful converted farm house which was a great addition to the trip, giving a rustic authentic Italian experience. We got welcome drinks and local cheeses, meats etc and were well looked after by lovely host Marianne. Tour operator Miki cooked us delicious lasagne and ensured we were well looked after throughout. Despite not being able to do the canoeing due to bad weather, she arranged at last minute a wine tasting which was very nice. An excellent trip! Made me want to go back and see more of the Dolomites!
Great trip with a great crew.
I was traveling on my own but soon made friends in the group. Accommodation & food were fantastic. Probably a little too good & wellness centre was great at the end of the day. Hiking was awesome & good for most capabilities. Biking was a little challenging but fun. Canoe was not my thing which surprised me as usually I'm into any adventure. Although due to lack of water our trip was changed, the original trip may have been OK. Highly recommend this to most travelers.
Just an excellent adventure!
I loved this trip...it exceeded my expectations. It was part of a larger trip I was doing and it just fitted in so we'll and it really added to the experience. We went to places I could have gone on my own, the activities were run by excellent operators and all the accommodation was excellent and transfers were seamless. I did this tour with an excellent group of people too!
Amazing trip
This has been one on my bucket list for a long time, and it didn't disappoint. From the moment we where picked up from the airport it has been amazing adventure.Miki went above and beyond to make sure everyone where happy. The trip was very well organised. Those of us who wanted to hike to the top had that opportunity and others who didn't had the option to rest and enjoy the amazing views of Dolmites. The trip was fairly flexible and catered for everyones abilitys. This was my first trip with MBA but it most certainly won't be last.
Exceeded our expectation - MUST TRY !!!
Thank you for the most amazing holidays we have had. It was our first time with "Much Better Adventures" and I can already say it won't be the last. From the moment we booked, picked up from the airport, all activities included we were looked after, well informed before each day. Food was just simply amazing with so many choices, accommodation ... I can not express how impressed we are. Thank you to out amazing hosts Miki and Farbizio from Wild in the Dolomiti.
Definitely recommended 10/10 !!!
Itinerary Activities
- Guided hike from the iconic Passo Giau to the high plains of Mondeval di Sora
- Guided e-biking to the top of Mount Fertazza (6,824 ft)
- Guided hike through Averau and the Cinque Torri
- Canoeing on the turquoise waters of the Lago del Mis
- Light hike to La Soffia Waterfall and the Cadini del Brenton in the Mis Valley
Guides
- Local, expert, English-speaking guides
Lodging
- 3 nights in a 4-star mountain hotel with spa facilities
- 2 nights in a beautiful agriturismo in a private woodland area
Meals
- 5 tasty breakfasts
- 5 delicious dinners offering regional specialties
Transfers
- Group arrival transfer from Venice Marco Polo Airport on Day 1
- Group departure transfer to Venice Marco Polo Airport on Day 6
- Transfers during the trip
Gear
- All biking equipment
- All canoeing equipment
Our trips are hassle-free by design. We include all the activities and equipment, as well as many of the meals, so you can simply rock up with your rucksack and share the adventure with your new pals.
Travel to and from the trip
Our trips do not include flights, trains or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.
Some meals
On this trip, lunches are not included. Your budget for these largely depends on the type of meal you choose at the local supermarkets or mountain huts, where you'll stop during the activities. A simple sandwich or panini with local cured meats and cheese costs approximately €8, while a first or second course in a restaurant will usually be a hot meal and cost approximately €15 and €18 each. Soft drinks and beers are around €3-5.
Tourism taxes
You'll need to budget for some city taxes, payable at the hotel in cash at the end of your stay. Please allow approximately €2-2.50 per night for this.
Tips
Tips are not included in the trip cost; these are entirely at your discretion. If you would like to tip, the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality.
Personal Expenses
You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals and drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures, and you'll need to provide your policy details before departure. Your insurance should offer adequate cover for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment, and the specific activities involved in your adventure. We also recommend ensuring your policy includes cancellation and curtailment cover, in case you're unable to join your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness.
Standard travel insurance may not cover all the activities included in your adventure, so it's essential to check the details carefully. There are adventure-specific providers that many travelers have used in the past, such as True Traveller (for those based in the UK or Europe), or Rise + Shield, both of which offer cover for a wide range of adventurous activities.
Please make sure your chosen policy meets your individual needs and covers all aspects of your trip.
Visas
Visa requirements often change, and you are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice.
What's provided?
All your e-biking and canoeing gear
What do I need to bring?
BAGS
- Main luggage: duffle bag or soft suitcase is ideal - one main bag per person, max. weight 33 lbs - If you're traveling with extra baggage, please read the Excess Luggage FAQ
- Daypack: 20-30 liter rucksack with rain cover
- Recommended: Waterproof liner/dry-bags for keeping contents of daypack dry if it rains
CLOTHES
- Lightweight waterproof and windproof jacket
- Breathable wicking layers
- Fleece jacket or similar
- Buff or neck scarf
- Lightweight pants/shorts/skirts
- T-shirts (synthetic or merino wool recommended)
- Underwear and socks
- Sunglasses
- Sunhat
- Something to sleep in
- Hiking boots (worn-in)
- Sandals or water-shoes for canoeing
- Swimwear
OTHER
- Quick-dry towel
- Universal travel plug adapter
- Power bank or solar charger
- Passports (and visas)
- Travel insurance documents
- Sunscreen
- Personal first aid kit (inc. blister treatment such as Compeed)
- Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
- Alcohol hand-gel
- 2 x 1-liter reusable water bottle
OPTIONAL
- Earplugs and eyemask
- Hydration salts, energy bars and snacks
- Trekking poles
No optional extras are available for this trip.
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre program, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 168kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
- A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
Marta Marinelli, raised in Italy’s serene Prosecco Hills, dreamed of global adventures, inspired by her father's travel stories. Her passion evolved into a career, backed by a decade of studies including degrees in international tourism and destination management. She’s worked in the adventure travel sector since 2012, living in Italy, the UK, and now sunny Portugal.
Over twenty years, Marta has explored over 55 countries, visiting remote areas like Ghana, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Haiti and Nepal’s Upper Mustang region. As a Senior Adventure Expansion Manager at Much Better Adventures, she focuses on creating life-changing experiences, ranging from multi-activity adventures, challenging treks to ultimate adventures in iconic places. She loves the challenge of finding the best local adventure hosts around the world, collaborating on adventures that offer genuine immersion, pushing beyond the beaten path and working on exclusive itineraries that challenge your comfort zone.
What makes her tick? Enabling people to live adventure-rich lives while positively impacting and empowering local communities around the world, generating sustainable opportunities for both the host, guides, community, and the environment.
You'll be exploring some of the most iconic sites of the Dolomites, a UNESCO-listed site since 2009. The scenery is incredibly varied, ranging from rocky peaks and walls, to grassy hillsides, lush woodland and wide-open grassland.
The first part of the trip is based near the lovely town of Selva di Cadore in the Val Florentina, near Pelmo-Croda. This is a great base from which you'll explore famous sites and viewpoints on bike and on foot, such as Passo Giau, Mondeval Altopiano, Mount Fertazza and Cinque Torri.
On the final part of the trip, you'll be based in a more untrodden area of the Dolomites: the town of Sospirolo in the Mis Valley, one of the main gateways to the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park. The area is wild and unspoiled, with natural features such as canyons, gorges, mountains, lakes and waterfalls, which will be a joy to explore on foot and by canoe.
You'll be looked after by three different expert local guides, each qualified for the relevant activity (hiking, biking, and canoeing). This means there won't be a single local tour leader throughout the trip but a team of different friendly and professional guides.
So in Selva di Cadore, you'll be accompanied by a mountain guide on the two hiking trails, and by a local biking guide for the thrilling e-bike ride up Mount Fertazza. In Lago del Mis, you'll be led by a qualified kayaking and canoeing instructor.
The water in the Dolomites is safe to drink, and you can fill up freely at the mountain huts you stop at and the hotels you stay in. Make sure to bring a couple of reusable water bottles or a hydration bladder.
Yes, but as a reminder first, in terms of bags your host recommends all you need is: a personal rucksack approx. 20-30L to carry your essential items for each day, plus one main piece of luggage at your hotel. On Day 4 your host will transfer your main luggage from the hotel in Selva di Cadore to the agriturismo in Sospirolo. There is a 33 lbs weight limit, one bag per person, for your main luggage as your host has to arrange for the luggage to be transferred during the middle of the trip.
For those traveling with additional suitcases or large heavy luggage, perhaps you're in the middle of a longer trip for example, you won't have access to this luggage during the trip. Please note that luggage space in the host's vans used for the airport transfers is limited. Your host may be able to store smaller/lighter items of luggage (max 18 lbs) during the trip at their office, but for bigger/heavier items of luggage they should be stored at Venice Airport. There is a convenient left luggage storage office at the airport, located next to the left side exit from the arrivals area on the ground floor, where you can store any excess luggage for the duration of the trip for a charge (approx €9-€15 per day depending on item size and duration).
The weather in the national parks can be quite unpredictable, with rain, wind, and extreme temperatures possible at any time of the year. The best you can do is to be prepared for anything and come equipped with layers of clothing, sunscreen, and waterproof gear. Your host will be monitoring the weather conditions during the course of the trip and will suggest alternative, safer hiking routes or activities should the weather get particularly bad.
On this trip, lunches are not included. Your budget largely depends on the type of meal you choose to order at the local grocery stores or mountain huts where you'll stop during the activities. A simple sandwich or panini with local cured meats and cheese costs approximately €8, while a first or second course in a restaurant will usually be a hot meal and cost approximately €15 and €18 each. Soft drinks and beers are usually around €3-5.
On this trip, you'll also need to budget for some city taxes, payable at the hotel in cash at the end of your stay. Please allow approximately €2-2.50 per night for this.
You'll be provided with electric mountain bikes (typically Giant or similar). E-bikes are becoming increasingly popular across Europe and on this trip you'll get the chance to test one on a short ride to Monte Fertazza. Generally speaking, e-bikes are bicycles with battery-powered assistance that comes via pedaling. When you push the pedals, a small motor engages and gives you a boost to help you tackle more challenging climbs or rough terrain. It very much feels like a natural extension of a rider's own pedaling power. They have a maximum speed limitation and you can also opt to use your e-bike without any support to feel your legs burn, if you prefer!
Your e-bike will assist with about 25% of the effort on an average ride, meaning you'll provide about 75% of the effort. There will be moments when you'll need to switch to Boost mode for short bursts of power, especially on challenging terrain or steep sections. However, most of your ride will be in Eco and Trail modes, with Eco mode often being your go-to on climbs to conserve battery life throughout the day. This balance ensures a smooth, enjoyable ride while still giving you the thrill of exploration on two wheels.
In terms of speed, the power assistance on e-bikes is typically capped at around 15mph. If you want to go faster, you'll need to pedal harder! You can adjust the power levels to match your pace and terrain. Your cycling guide will brief you on how to use the different modes to optimize your ride and make the battery last:
Eco Mode: Low power for energy efficiency, giving you longer battery life on flat terrain.
Auto Mode: Automatically adjusts the power based on terrain and your pedaling effort for a more balanced ride.
Sport Mode: Provides mid-range power, ideal for moderate hills and faster cruising.
Turbo Mode: Delivers maximum power, perfect for steep hills or when you want to ride fast.
When it comes to battery power, the e-bike batteries are typically charged overnight, usually at your accommodation. There will be a couple of spare batteries in the support vehicle just in case. However, if you manage your battery usage throughout the day (for example, by avoiding using turbo mode all the time), you’ll find that the battery lasts long enough for most rides without any issues.
You'll be using what is commonly known as a 'Canadian' canoe – an evolution of the original birch bark canoes used by the indigenous peoples of North America. You'll be in twin canoes; the Canadian is a lightweight, mostly open-top canoe with plenty of space for baggage as well as two passengers. Your personal gear is kept in large drybags (supplied by your host) which are then secured to the inside of the canoe. The weight limit is approximately 220 lbs per person.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers review the practical information available on the UK Government’s FCDO website, where you can find up-to-date advice by searching for your destination(s).
If you are based in the United States, you can also check the latest travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State.
For customers joining from other international locations, we recommend checking the official travel advice issued by your country of residence, as guidance may vary.
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates daily, so prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips typically consist of a mix of solo travelers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves, and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
Reviews
Bucket-List Adventure, Premium Hospitality!
Sanjay S. September 2025
Fantastic Dolomites Adventure
Stephanie D. September 2025
Beautiful Dolomites
Rayelle P. September 2025
Superb Dolomites Trip
Ben M. September 2025
An adventure that has everything
Anne K. July 2025
Fabulous holiday with amazing hosts
Richard W. July 2025
Hike, Bike, canoe the Dolomites
Meagan K. June 2025
Fantastic 4 days!
Sarah R. October 2024
Dolomites September 24.
Loretto L. September 2024
Need help finding flights?
From logistics and how to get there, to fitness, group dynamic and trip difficulty, Rory and his team of friendly experts are on hand to help.
We've got your back
Guaranteed to run
All Much Better Adventures trips are guaranteed to run. Once you’ve booked your spot you can immediately make your travel arrangements, no uncertainty, no hanging about (excludes 'request to book' departures). Full details
Flexible payments
Secure your spot with the minimum deposit and pay off the remaining balance in as many installments as you like, with no interest or fees. Full details
Happiness Guarantee
We’re so confident you’ll have an amazing time we’ll put our money on it. Full details
Full financial protection
For total peace of mind, Much Better Adventures is backed by ABTOT and ASTA memberships. Full details
Tried & Trusted
Much Better Adventures is rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot, with over 1000 verified trip reviews averaging 4.8/5.
Connect before you go
You'll be invited to join a WhatsApp group to get to know each other before your big adventure together. Full details
DEPARTURE DATES
Thursday 11th June 2026
to Tuesday 16th June 2026
Thursday 18th June 2026
to Tuesday 23rd June 2026
Thursday 25th June 2026
to Tuesday 30th June 2026
