Alta Via 8 Dolomites Western Traverse (AV8) Self-guided

The Alta Via 8 long-distance trail in the Dolomites—often referred to as the Western Dolomites Traverse—offers a journey that goes beyond the classic Dolomites experience. Traversing the mountains from north to south, this route delivers exceptional variety, linking together several of the region’s most distinctive landscapes into one cohesive trek. It is a route with multiple personalities: while some hikers may prefer shorter sections that highlight specific regions, others are drawn to the full traverse, which offers a level of diversity unmatched by most other Dolomites itineraries.

Beginning above Brixen–Bressanone, the route quickly enters alpine terrain in the Odle–Geisler Group, initially following sections of Alta Via 2, but turns off before reaching any technical terrain. One of the early highlights is the renowned Adolf Munkel Trail, widely considered one of the most scenic and accessible high routes in the Dolomites, with dramatic views of the Odle’s jagged north faces. The route then passes beneath the iconic Seceda ridgeline, with the option to ascend to one of the Dolomites’ most photographed viewpoints. After descending into Val Gardena, the trail climbs onto the Seiser Alm (Alpe di Siusi), the largest high-altitude alpine meadow in Europe. Here, rolling pastures and expansive views provide a striking contrast to the rugged terrain of the previous days, offering more relaxed walking without compromising on scenery. Our northern itinerary exits after this section.

This gentler terrain gives way to a more rugged environment as the route enters the Rosengarten (Catinaccio) group. Known for its dramatic rock formations and complex terrain, this section represents a clear shift in character. Our itinerary avoids the most technical variants of the Alta Via 8, instead following the most accessible line through the massif while still retaining a sense of challenge. Hikers traverse extensive scree slopes and high mountain passes, fully immersing themselves in the raw, geological character that defines the Dolomites. A short exposed section secured with cables (no special equipment required) and a steep scree descent are unavoidable challenges. There are two route options to exit the Rosengarten group: a more direct, adventurous crossing over a high pass or a longer, more gradual alternative through easy terrain.

Beyond the Rosengarten, the most demanding terrain is behind you. The route continues along the distinctive “Labyrinth Trail,” weaving through a whimsical landscape of boulders at the foot of the Latemar Group, before transitioning onto more flowing trails. These paths contour around the base of Latemar and lead toward a comfortable spa hotel—an ideal place to rest and recover after the more challenging stages. The final days of the traverse offer a quieter, more reflective experience, as the trail passes through the forests and meadows of Trudner Horn Nature Park. This protected area is one of northern Italy’s most biodiverse regions, marking the transition between Alpine and sub-Mediterranean environments. On the final day, the route descends through vineyards and apple orchards into the Adige–Etsch Valley, where the trek concludes in Salorno–Salurn with convenient access to the rail network.

A note on the Alta Via 8:
There are two routes commonly referred to as Alta Via 8. The official “Alta Via degli Eroi” (Path of Heroes) begins further south near Feltre and is a shorter, separate route. The itinerary described here—often called the Western Dolomites Traverse—is an extended north–south crossing along the western edge of the Dolomites, running from Brixen–Bressanone to Salorno–Salurn.