A must among snowshoe walking holidays
Discover the magic of the Italian Dolomites in winter on an unforgettable snowshoeing journey. Begin by walking beneath the dramatic Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the most iconic landmark of the range, before embarking on a five-day point-to-point trek along sections of the famous Alta Via 'High Level' trail.
Our adventure begins in San Vito di Cadore, just south of Cortina d’Ampezzo, and takes us deep into a spectacular alpine environment. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll explore remote valleys, towering cliffs, and snow-covered forests that reveal a completely new perspective on this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights
- Journey through a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site
- Discover the Dolomites’ fascinating First World War history
- Snowshoe beneath spectacular rock towers, cliffs and peaks
- Experience a true winter journey through the Italian Dolomites
By day, immerse yourself in the pristine stillness of the mountains; by night, enjoy the warmth of Italian hospitality staying in traditional alpine mountain rifugios. This is more than a snowshoe trip - it’s a chance to experience the Dolomites at their most peaceful and breathtaking.
The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage site and have eighteen peaks rising to over 3000 metres (9840ft), many with spectacular rock spires and towers, such as the world famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo or 'Three Peaks'. It is the exceptional natural beauty of the rock formations and geology that have given the Dolomites, World Heritage status.
Holiday Reviews
Grade: Advanced
READ GRADE DESCRIPTIONAt a Glance
| Holiday Type | Snowshoeing |
| Duration | 8 Days |
| Group Size | 8 |
| Minimum Age | 18 |
| Maximum Altitude | 2575m (8448ft) |
| Countries Visited | Italy |
| Meet In | San Vito di Cadore, Italy |
Dates and Prices
2027 Departures
| Code | Start Date | Return Date | Duration | Price | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AVS1 |
31 Jan 2027
Sunday |
07 Feb 2027
Sunday |
8 days |
£2,265
Deposit: £650 |
Limited Availability | Contact Us |
| AVS2 |
28 Feb 2027
Sunday |
07 Mar 2027
Sunday |
8 days |
£2,265
Deposit: £650 |
Spaces Available | Book Now |
2028 Departures
What's Included
- Half board accommodation in a 3* spa hotel or similar, based on two people sharing for 2 nights
- Half board accommodation in mountain rifugios, based on two people sharing a twin or double for 5 nights
- Three course evening meals for 3 nights in a local restaurant
- Bed linen and towels in the rifugios
- Services of a professional Italian 'High Mountain Guide'
- In resort transport to and from the snowshoe walks
- Sledge and skiddoo on the Tre Cime day
- Guest card to include free bus and train travel
- Snowshoe Hire
What's Not Included
- Lunches
- Travel Insurance - required
- Travel to & from meeting point
- Miscellaneous personal spending
Itinerary
Today you arrive in the town the mountain town of San Vito Di Cadore, located in the northern part of the Veneto region of Italy. San Vito Di Cadore is just 11km (6.8 miles) from Cortina d' Ampezzo in Italy, if you arrive early you could consider exploring Cortina with its one thousand year history. Surrounded by majestic peaks Cortina, is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. Proud of it's heritage, visit the Ethnograhic Museum to learn about the local traditions, history and environment or visit the "Rinaldo Zardini" Palaeontological Museum which houses one of the most significant collections of fossils in existence. Your local guide will meet you at the hotel before the evening meal, at approximately 1830hrs, to answer any questions and discuss the days ahead.
A short drive takes us to the village of Misurina a lakeside beauty spot and the perfect location for our first snowshoe hike. It's easy to see why the original settlers chose to live in this idyllic mountain setting. This warm up snowshoe walk is the perfect opportunity to test your equipment and clothing before we start our five day mountain adventure journey. Our aim is to catch views of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, also known as the Drei Zinnen or Three Peaks - a world re-knowned mountain of the Dolomites. Made up of three immense rock towers rising above the valley the view is truly breathtaking and captures the attention of any hiker or climber visiting the region. Our route takes us from lago (or lake) d’Antorno up to Rifugio Auronzo following the summer hiking path. We then traverse to Rifugio Lavaredo and onto the Forcella Lavaredo pass. Our final destination is the Auronzo Hut where we are treated to another vista of rock towers and jagged spires in this truly spectacular mountain setting. Any last minute supplies can be purchased today before heading back to the hotel for a spa and to prepare our packs for our journey along the Alta Via trail.
Ascent: 800m (2624ft) Descent: 800m (2624ft) Distance: 9km (5.6 miles)
A taxi transfers us from San Vito to the trail head and the start of this five day snowshoe tour of the Dolomites. We start at the restaurant Capanna Alpina 1726m (5662ft), close to San Cassiano in Alta Badia, first on an easy wide trail which then narrows through pine trees. The trail steepens to reach the mountain pass Col de Locia 2069m (6788ft) which offers a wonderful view of the Sella mountain group and the 'Queen of the Dolomites' the Marmolada 3342m (10964ft), the Dolomites highest peak. Heading north through a beautiful high valley, the trail undulates to reach the summer alpine pasture of Malga Gran Fanes 2105m (6906ft), where we join the main Alta Via 1 'high level' walking route. We are now walking along what was the frontline during WWI. When not covered in snow it's easy to find evidence of gun emplacements, barracks and tunnels carved out along the trail. The trail continues to Ütia de Gran Fanes, passes the Fanes mountain hut, before leading onwards to our destination at Rifugio Lavarella which is surrounded by tiny rustic shepherd huts on a high plateau. The first of several amazing Italian mountain huts which really are more like cosy moutanin hotels.
Ascent: 309m (1013ft) Descent: 190m (623ft) Distance: 10km (6.2miles) Walking time: 4-5 hours
NB: No access to luggage
Close to the enchanting green lake, made famous by the ancient Ladin legends, the Lavarella mountain refuge is situated in pristine natural landscape of the Fanes high plateau, far away from traffic and noise of the towns.
With two nights booked here we can lighten our packs today as we have the opportunity to explore from the hut door at the heart of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your guide will pick the best day snowshoe itinerary according to the weather. For example; in good conditions Monte Ciastel is a fine objective. Leaving from the hut back we retrace our steps to Col de Limo then continue up to the WW1 shelter just above the little summit totalling 1000m ascent (3280ft) - a 7 hours. A less demanding day might be the Col Toronn circuit in the Pices Fanes area where we climb up to Ciastel de Fanes which is 600m (1968ft) - 4 hours. Or you could even enjoy a rest day and what better place to be for it!
Return to the hut and experience their outdoor finnish sauna, savour the beauty of the Fanes Sennes Braies natural park in unspoilt nature. Then celebrate with the refuges very own beer - from the highest brewery in Europe at 2050m (6725ft). A day to remember!
Walking time: 5-7 hours Ascent: 600m (1968ft) - 1000m (3280ft) depending on the route chosen
NB: No access to luggage
Our destination today is the Sennes Rifugio - park of the Fanes-Sennes-Braies National Park. Back on the true Alta Via route we start with an easy descent leaving behind us the wonderful amphitheatre of snowcapped mountains of the Fanes plateau. A snow covered forest track then descends more steeply passing the Lago Piciodi through the Vallone di Rudo. We reach the Rifugio Pederu where we can stop for lunch before the main climb for the day. First on a good tracks and then across snow covered meadows we reach the Col de Lasta, 2297m (1427ft). This beautiful area in the summer months is used for grazing cattle, horses and goats and where the marmots make the most of the lush pastures but in the winter it has a very different remote and wild feel. A final ascent brings us to the Rifugio Sennes 2126m (6975ft) our next over night stop. Our hut is really more like a hotel offering a wide panorama over some of the most beautiful peaks of the Dolomites: Croda Rossa 3146m (10321ft), Cristallo 3221m (10567ft), Sorapis 3205m (10515ft) and Tofana 3243m (10639ft) - plus wonderful hospitaliy.
Ascent: 700m (2296ft) Descent: 650m (2132ft) Distance: 10km (6.2miles) Walking time: 5-6 hours
NB: No access to luggage
We have another great opportunity to lighten our packs and go and explore an area from the hut door. The vast and wild Plateau of 'Sennes' has much to offer, from rolling alpine meadows, to snow-covered larch forests, and dramatic limestone peaks such as Croda del Becco, and the majestic Croda Rossa. Your local Italian guide will choose the best snowshoe itinerary according to the weather. If the conditions are good, then the Lavinores summit would be a great adventure. After a rewarding day out in the mountains we will return to the cosy hospitality of Rifugio Sennes to enjoy traditional South Tyrolean cuisine, a hot drink by the fire, and the unforgettable colours of the Dolomite sunset. This is a great location for a perfect winter day on snowshoes.
Walking time: 5-7 hours Ascent: 400m (1312ft) - 800m (2624ft) depending on the route chosen
NB: No access to luggage
Leaving our hosts at Rifugio Sennes, we begin our descent towards Rifugio Ra Stua, following peaceful winter trails through the stunning Fanes–Sennes–Braies Nature Park. As we make our way down the valley, take time to appreciate the magnificent setting, with sweeping views across the Dolomites and fascinating insights into the region's unique geology, shaped over millions of years. Throughout this week we have been spoiled by spectacular mountain scenery, and today's walk is a fitting finale. Easy trails lead us through tranquil pine forests as we gradually descend the valley to Podestagno in the Val di Gotres, where our snowshoe adventure comes to an end.
Ascent: 172m (564ft) Descent: 900m (2952ft) Distance: 10.3km (6.4miles) Walking time: 5-6 hours
Tracks and Trails services end after breakfast.
We aim to follow the itinerary outlined above whenever possible. However, your guide may need to make changes due to weather conditions or in the interests of the group's safety and enjoyment. Snowshoes are used to assist with winter hiking, but if there is insufficient snow to require them, the trip will still go ahead as planned. Our kit list includes microspikes, as these may be needed in low-snow or icy conditions.
Accommodation
We aim to accommodate our guests in well-situated, clean, characterful, family run accommodation. Our trips are based on two people sharing a bedroom, what we call a 'twin' means two single beds in one bedroom. If you are booking as a single traveller you will share with someone of the same gender. A single room may be available for your private use when we stay in San Vito Di Cadore. This will incur a supplementary fee; the amount of which can be found in 'Trip Information' under 'Single Supplements'. However, these can be in demand , and require early booking. Our suggested accommodation, listed below, is subject to availability at the time of booking. It is rare to have air conditioning in the mountain areas where our trips take place, and most bedrooms do not have this facility. If you have any questions about the accommodation you are welcome to contact us.
The first two nights and the last night we will be in a hotel, while the rest of the trip we will stay in rifugios. A rifugio is the Italian name given to a mountain lodge/hut. Normally we manage to reserve rooms or small dormitories just for our group so you are not sharing with other groups, however, this cannot be guaranteed. Early booking means better rooming arrangements as we have more choice available. Read our Blog on staying in a mountain Rifugio, but be assured that in the Dolomites the Rifugio's are above the normal standard expected in the mountains and are similar to characterful rustic hotels.
Hotel Fiori, San Vito di Cadore
The Hotel Fiori is in San Vito di Cadore in Italy. It has 24 spacious rooms which are decorated in a contemporary rustic style with natural larch floors and large, comfortable beds.
After a day in the Dolomites take advantage of the hotel Wellness Area made of stone and wood where you'll find 3 saunas, 2 ’emotional showers’ and relaxation area. San Vito Cadore is situated just a few kilometres south of Cortina on the main bus route from Venice. Guests at Hotel Fiori have the option of twin, single or double rooms. They serve a plentiful and rich buffet breakfast, you have access to the hotel spa and your hotel visitors pass gives you free use of the bus. The guest card also offers discounts in some local mountain huts refuges and restaurants. They even have their own Fiori pastry shop!
Rifugio Lavarella, Fanes
The Lavarella mountain lodge or 'rifugio' lies at the heart of the Fanes Sennes Braies natural park.
It's in an outstanding location at 2050m (6725ft) above sea level close to the enchanting Lé Vërt (green lake) made famous by Fanes Ladin legends. Rifugio Lavarella has hotel style comforts in the heart of the moutains. Enjoy wonderful home cooked Ladin cuisine of South Tyrol, private rooms of 2-3 people, an outside Finnish sauna and they even have their own micro brewery offering a tangy wheat beer and an unfiltered lager.
Rifugio Sennes, Sennes National Park
Located a plateau on the Alta Via 1 trail, Rifugio Sennes sits at 2126 m (6975ft), in the Fanes-Senes-Braies National Park.
From the balcony enjoy a wide panoramic view over some of the most beautiful peaks of the Dolomites: Croda Rossa (3146 m) (Hohe Gaisel), Cristallo (3221 m), Sorapis (3205 m) und Tofana (3243 m). Relax in the comfort of this family-run lodge with its traditional home cooking with dishes typical of the region. Rooms at Rifugio Sennes are twin or doubles many of which have en suite facilities.
Trip Information
Cortina has excellent train and bus links. Rome2Rio is a useful site which gives a map and overall picture of how the local public transport network links up and who to book with. From Cortina the journey to San Vito Di Cadore is around 25 minutes on public transport this service is provided by Dolomiti Bus. If travelling from Venice then you will change buses before Cortina. If travelling from Innsbruck and you will change in Cortina please take a look at Rome2Rio for the route. Trains from the UK to Cortina can be sourced here.
The closest airports are Venice in Italy and Innsbruck in Austria.
Venice: Venice has two airports. The main airport is Venice Marco Polo but some airlines such as Ryanair fly to Venice ‘Treviso'. There is a 15 minute drive between these two airports. To transfer from Venice to Cortina choose either the Cortina Express or Flixbus the journey time is between 2h-2h30. We recommend buying tickets in advance which can be done easily and in English. Check the timetables carefully as they vary with stops and times. If arriving into Treviso airport you will need to take an airport bus into Treviso town to pick up the Cortina bus. The bus tickets vary in price depending on how far in advance you buy them from 5€ - 20€ one way.
Innsbruck: From Innsbruck the journey time about 4 hours. From the airport you can take a free shuttle bus, it takes 15 mins and leaves every 10 mins, to reach Innsbruck central railway station. From the central rail way travel by train to Brennero (also known as Brenner) then to Fortezza (also known as Franzensfeste) then to Dobbiaco (also called Toblach) and then the local Sud Tirol no. 445 bus to Cortina.
If you would like to arrange a private transfer from Innsbruck or Venice or any other destination then we can recommend the services of www.taxicortinasci.it
It is your responsibility to ensure any insurance taken out is appropriate for your trip and the activity you will be undertaking. Tracks & Trails cannot advise on insurance policies or be held responsible if, in the event of a claim, your insurance is inadequate.
Activity, Injury and Mountain Rescue It is a condition of booking you are insured for mountain rescue, medical expenses, injury, illness, death, cost of repatriation and personal accident risks. The exception to the mountain rescue insurance requirement is if the trip is taking place in the United Kingdom or Norway where mountain rescue is free of charge. Ensure your insurance covers you to the maximum altitude given on your trip itinerary. The maximum altitude can be checked in the 'At A Glance' box on the trip page.
Trip Cancellation/Curtailment Insurance Insurance should be booked as soon as we confirm your trip is going ahead. Deposit and balance payments are non-refundable unless it is Tracks and Trails who cancel the trip due to a failure to reach the minimum numbers required. In this case we offer a full refund or the option to transfer to another trip.
Baggage Loss/Equipment Damage We advise insurance which covers baggage loss/equipment damage.
All the above is detailed in our Terms and Conditions. For further information on insurance options click here.
When packing for a trip in the mountains it is important to have the appropriate equipment and clothing. This kit list features items we believe are necessary for the weather you might encounter and the accommodation you will be staying in.
Generally clothing for snowshoeing should be equivalent to that used for walking in the mountains in winter. For this trip all the necessary snowshoe equipment is provided by the guide for an additional charge. This includes snowshoes, walking poles, snow probe, snow shovel, and avalanche transceiver. The carrying of this safety equipment is compulsory and demonstrates ‘best practice’.
If your shoesize is bigger than EU47 / UK 12 - please get in touch so we can make sure to supply you with the correct snowshoes.
Equipment
Snowshoes, Poles , Avalanche Transceiver, Shovel and Snow Probe - supplied for you by the guide
Rucksack – 30-35 litres, with waist and chest strap. Ideally it should have a system that allows you to attach snowshoes if it is necessary to carry them
Rucksack – waterproof liner/cover
Winter Hiking Boots - warm and waterproof. They must cover your ankles. A 'stiff' B2 boot which takes a crampon is not advised
Bags to waterproof items, such as documentation
Gaiters - useful on days with deep fresh snow
Emergency foil blanket
Micro-spikes - required for conditions when snowshoes are not practical or icy/slippery surface
Clothing
Waterproof jacket - essential, this must keep you dry during a day of continuous snowfall or at least as dry as any waterproof jacket ever keeps you!
Waterproof trousers - in case of heavy snowfall
Trousers - windproof and warm
Thermal top - long sleeves
Thin fleece - long sleeves
Waistcoat - fleece/wind stopper
Gloves x 2 (one thick and one thin)
Over-mittens for colder days can be useful
Warm hat
Sun hat
Head/ear band
Duvet jacket (or second warm layer)
Scarf or 'Buff' for neck
Socks - 2 or 3 pairs
Comfort
Lip salve
Sunscreen - essential
Sunglasses - essential
Goggles - very useful in snowfall
Snack bars/chocolate
Tissues - we recommend biodegradable bags to dispose of rubbish
Anti-bacterial hand wash
Personal First Aid
Personal medication
Blister plasters (e.g. Compeed)
Painkillers/anti-inflammatory
Glucose tablets/Energy gel
2 x Rehydration sachets - eg Dioralyte
Throat lozenges
Antiseptic cream/spray
Documentation
Mountain Rescue/Ski Insurance documents - compulsory
Passport
Credit card
Cash - Euros
GHIC - if travelling from UK for medical cover
Items for your overnight in the mountain hut/refuge
A sheet sleeping bag liner is only needed on this trip if you are staying in a dormitory. However we aim to always book private rooms that have linen included.
Small pack towel is required at the Rifugio Lavarella
Toiletries - miniature versions if possible
Head torch - plus spare batteries
Slippers or sandals - lightweight shoes to change into. Boots are not allowed indoors.
Additional Items
Clothing for use at accommodation
Hair dryer if required
Travel Kettle if required
Camera/ Book/Music
Toiletries – soap/shower gel; not all accommodation supplies these
Ear plugs - if room sharing
Small thermos for hot drinks
Padlock - for luggage
Sit mat (optional)
**Supplementary snacks if you follow a gluten free or coeliac diet**
Leaders are all first aid trained and carry their own first aid kit
Adventure lightly, leave only footprints
Carry your own kit – it's all part of the adventure
Cosy hut stays – escape to peaceful, hidden trails
Hop on a train – easy, stress-free travel to destination available
Keep it green – our stays are big on recycling!
Say no to single-use – help us cut down on plastic waste
Leave no trace – everything, even tissues, comes off the mountain with you
On many trips there will be an element of 'group kit'. This kit will will be minimal and usually a case of sharing a few lightweight 'survival shelters'. For example, on a week-long trip you may carry a shelter for one day before passing it to the next person. If you are booking a trip in winter there will be a few additional safety items, such as a snow shovel, probe, spare ski pole etc.
For each trip a minimum number of guests is required before we can confirm your trip will go-ahead. Minimum and maximum numbers are displayed in 'At a Glance' on the righthand of the trip page. If you book travel before we have emailed to confirm the trip is guaranteed we cannot be held responsible for any financial loss.
When booking a holiday as a solo traveller a twin bedded room comprising of two single beds, is booked as standard. This will be with someone of the same gender unless you request to pay extra for your own room. Single rooms are often limited in supply so if you would like to pay a supplement for a single room we urge you to get in touch as soon as possible. It is possible to have a single room in San Vito Di Cadore, it may be possible for a single room in the mountain huts. This trip has a single supplement, for San Vito Di Cadore, of £300 in 2027 and £320 in 2028.
For these trips we supply, free of charge, all snowshoe equipment; snowshoes, hiking poles, avalanche transceiver, snow shovel and snow probe. The carrying of this equipment, worth £600 per person, is compulsory. We kindly ask that you take good care of the equipment supplied.
Avalanche Transceivers Wearing an avalanche transceiver is good practice in a winter environment. An avalanche transceiver is a device about the size of your hand which is worn under the top layers of your clothing. It emits a silent signal that can be picked up by anyone searching for you. You may have done previous snowshoe trips where the wearing of a transceiver was not compulsory, however, at Tracks and Trails your safety is paramount and wearing one is compulsory.
Boots Warm and waterproof hiking boots are essential, these can be 'summer' or 'winter' boots. They must cover your ankles and provide support, it is not possible to low cut hiking shoes or trainers.
For this trip where you are both centre-based and on a point-to-point journey. When we leave on the morning of the first day for the four day hut-to-hut tour, you will carry what you need in your rucksack. For these four nights you will not have access to your main luggage. In reality this is not much more than you would carry each day, just a few additional items. We are happy to discuss this with you if you wish to be reassured with regard to which items you need to carry. Your trip begins and ends at the same hotel in San Vito Di Cadore and it is possible to leave your main luggage at the hotel for your return.
The statistics given on your itinerary relating to ascent, descent and distance should be used as a 'general' indication of the effort required. This is a guideline to help you decide if, based on previous experience, your fitness and stamina are correct for the trip. We ask you to note that the even the most modern of technology can show considerable variations in terms of ascent, descent, and in particular distance.
Winter mountain weather in the European Alps can vary considerably, and in this respect it is no different to any mountain environment where the terrain influences the weather and it can change from valley to valley. In winter the weather can be everything from clear blue skies, and glorious sunshine, to heavy snowfall and strong winds. Essentially, as with all mountain journeys, you should be prepared for all conditions. In December and January they can range from -10°Celsius (14°F) to 3°Celsius (37.4F), in February from -5°Celsius (23°F) to 7°Celsius (44.6°F), and in March from 0°Celsius (32°F) to 13°Celsius (55.4°F).
Food On our trips we encourage you to experience local tastes and dishes. If you are vegetarian catering for your diet is not generally a problem. If you have a 'special' diet because of an allergy/intolerance we ask that you make your needs clear on your booking form so we can discuss your requirements with the accommodation. A diet that is not related to an allergy/intolerance or beliefs cannot be catered for. It is simply not possible for mountain accommodation to deal with many variations in diet while providing meals for groups.
In addition, if you have an allergy/intolerance we would suggest you bring/purchase suitable snacks as a supplement to the picnic lunches. At times finding gluten free bread, for example, can be an issue. If you would like to discuss the suitability of a trip for a vegan diet, gluten or lactose intolerance please contact us. We request that you do not CHANGE your dietary requirements during the trip as we will have pre-ordered your meals.
Water If the accommodation has a problem with the water supply they will post a sign over the tap indicating that you must not drink the water, otherwise it is normal to drink from the tap. Hotels - It is not uncommon for restaurants to charge for tap water at the evening meal. If this is the case then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost. Mountain Huts - If your trip features a stay in a mountain hut/refuge and the tap water is not potable then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost of bottled water at the evening meal. Sparkling water is not included in this option and any cost should be covered by you.
Plastic credit or debit cards or smartphone pay systems are increasingly accepted throughout the areas where we run trips. Some countries, such as Norway, are moving towards a cashless society. However, in Europe, in the mountain areas where we run trips, a small amount of cash in the local currency is useful. For example, if you stop at a family-run mountain cafe or farm they may not accept cards or smartphone systems, and cash will be necessary. We recommend having enough cash in the local currency to pay for a few snacks and drinks. Whether to bring cash or not is at your own discretion.
A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required. We suggest keeping your passport in your rucksack, and a paper copy of your passport in your luggage. If your trip does not include luggage support carry a paper copy with you, but separate from your passport. You should check passport requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate for the country you are visiting, paying attention to your citizenship. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice.
NEW European Travel Regulations 2026 If you are travelling to Europe you may be impacted by a change to travel regulations. In the last quarter of 2026, the European Commission will roll out a U.S. style electronic travel authorisation system for visitors from countries that are currently not part of the EU. It is your responsibility to check for updates with regard to the introduction date.
We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at: Plug, Socket & Voltage by Country
If your trip involves staying in a mountain refuge/rifugio/hut a slimline and lightweight 'battery pack' can be useful for recharging phones etc. This type of accommodation will generally have electricity, but it may be limited in supply, and it is not always possible to charge items.
Tracks and Trails pays guides/instructors a fair and appropriate fee for their professional service. If you feel your guide/instructor has provided an excellent service that went 'above and beyond' then it is at the discretion of each guest whether to tip or not. Guests will often give a tip of between 2 - 5 per cent of the total value of their trip. It is entirely up to you and any gesture will no doubt be appreciated no matter the size.
Before booking consider whether you expect to be in the appropriate physical condition on the date of your departure to allow you to fully participate in and enjoy your holiday. If you have any doubts because of an illness or injury it would be advisable to check with your doctor. We advise you always carry your insurance documents with details of the Emergency Medical telephone number for your insurance provider, and your policy number.
GHIC For UK residents travelling to an EU country you should obtain and bring your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). The GHIC gives access to state healthcare in Europe either free or at a reduced cost. The GHIC is not a substitute for medical travel insurance.
EHIC If you have a UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) it will be valid until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you should apply for a GHIC.
We feel strongly about protecting the environment and do not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We would ask that you arrive with a ‘water bottle’ or ‘hydration system’ that can be used repeatedly. We operate a zero tolerance for rubbish, and would ask you to remove all items from the mountain, this includes toilet tissue, and those items you consider to be bio-degradable.
The waste water in mountain huts, also known as refuges/rifugios, often runs into nearby streams and rivers with a potential impact on the eco-system, though in many places steps are now being taken to avoid this. Whether or not your trip involves staying in a mountain hut we would nevertheless recommend you consider nature friendly sunscreens which only contain mineral UV-blocking ingredients such as oxide, and titanium dioxide.
Working across international boundaries, and with various currencies means the price of our trips can change overnight. We have undertaken to guarantee that once you have paid your deposit the price of your trip is fixed. The website price may increase due to currency fluctuations, but we guarantee that the price advertised on the date of your booking will be maintained.
We believe in team work, and enjoy working with other small high quality companies. All our trips are organised by Tracks and Trails, but you may be joined by guests from other companies. Partners are carefully selected to ensure they reflect our ethos and standards. By working with other companies your chosen holiday may reach its minimum number earlier, allowing us to guarantee the trip and give you the go-ahead to book your travel. We guarantee that companies with whom we work will offer the same price package. If you have any questions about this policy contact us.
If you would like help preparing for your snowshoe adventure you could consider booking a Quick Fix session with personal trainer Kate Brown. This is aimed at those who want to get ready for any of our winter activities. Your booking with Kate will involve a 45 minute 1:1 video consultation and action plan. You can read more about her ethos and experience here. We also offer free training videos on our YouTube channel - the following are aimed at those who snowshoe in winter, and hike in summer:
We go to great lengths to work with first class guides who are passionate about their work. They are fully qualified, insured, and hold the correct documentation. Note your snowshoe guide has our authority to make any route changes they believe are necessary in the interests of safety and enjoyment. This is particularly relevant in a winter environment where the snowpack can change on a daily basis. Your snowshoe guide will be a qualified International Mountain Leader. IML's are not only qualified to ensure the safe management of the group, but are also a source of knowledge about the local flora and fauna, culuture and traditions. You can learn more about our guides and instructors on the About Us page.
We do not include lunches in your trip fee for various reasons, the most important of which is food waste. Most people have particular tastes and requirements for 'trail' or 'hill' food and it is better you purchase your own snacks rather than throw away items from the picnic lunch which we would supply. Lunches on our trips are 'picnic' style lunches, in other words you take a packed lunch with sufficient snacks, food and fluid to sustain you throughout the day. Buying snacks and trying local specialities is a great way to inter-act with local people and to practise your language skills.
If there is the possibility of lunch being taken at a restaurant/farm/cafe beside the trail, your guide/instructor will advise you of this. Each evening you can order a picnic/sandwich from your accommodation, or your guide/instructor will advise you of options such as a local shop or market. In all cases we would ask you to settle any 'bill' for lunch or drinks the evening before you depart, and not in the morning when there may be a queue.
