Venice: The Best of Dolomites 3Cime and Refuges with Drone

Exploring the Dolomites is a bucket-list adventure for many travelers, and this tour promises a blend of breathtaking scenery, cultural refuges, and unique photo opportunities. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions give us a good sense of its appeal. It’s perfect for those who want an active day in nature, with the added thrill of drone footage capturing their journey.

What immediately stands out about this experience are the spectacular mountain vistas, the small group size, and the expert guidance from guides like Fabio, who keeps things engaging and informative. The chance to see iconic peaks like Tre Cime di Lavaredo and visit historic refuges makes this a memorable outdoor outing. Plus, the drone follow-me video adds a modern, fun twist that many travelers find worth the price.

One aspect to consider is the physical activity level — with about 400 meters of elevation gain and optional trekking, it’s suitable for outdoor enthusiasts but might be demanding for some. The tour’s price, around $203.91 per person, is reasonable given the included transportation, guided experience, and the exclusive drone video. It’s best suited for active travelers, photography lovers, or anyone eager to experience the Dolomites beyond just a view.

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized day exploring the Alps with expert guidance and a touch of modern tech, this tour is likely to meet your expectations. Now let’s dig into what the experience actually entails and what you can expect along the way.

Good To Know

• Small-group format: Limited to 7 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Expert guidance: Guides like Fabio are praised for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge.
• Iconic stops: Includes Refuge Auronzo, the Lavaredo Fork, and optional lunch at Refuge Locatelli.
• Unique drone footage: You’ll be chased by a drone and take home a memorable video of your adventure.
• Panoramic views: Expect 360° mountain vistas and iconic photo opportunities.
• Physical activity: Moderate trekking involved, with about 400 meters of elevation gain.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary Breakdown — What to Expect

Pickup and Transportation

The experience begins with a pickup in a gray UltraRock minivan outside your accommodation in Venice, making it convenient and straightforward. The round-trip transportation eliminates the headache of driving or navigating public transit, allowing you to relax and focus on the scenery. The tour typically starts around 10 am, but check availability for specific times, since group sizes are limited to 7 for a more personal touch.

Ascent to Refuge Auronzo

Once on board, you’re driven towards the Dolomites, culminating at Refuge Auronzo (2200 meters). This is a well-known starting point for many Dolomite adventures and offers stunning views even before you set foot on the trails.

From here, you have two options: embark on a simple trek or trail hike around the Three Peaks of Lavaredo (which involves about 400 meters of elevation gain), or stay in the van for a scenic drive to the next stop. The hike offers an excellent balance of challenge and reward, especially if you’re keen to stretch your legs and take in the surroundings.

Trekking to the Lavaredo Fork

The next highlight is the hike through the Lavaredo Fork (around 2350 meters), a renowned route that offers panoramic views of the peaks. The trail is accessible for most hikers and provides that quintessential Dolomite experience: jagged limestone towers, sweeping valleys, and a sense of being on top of the world.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Refuge Locatelli and Optional Lunch

The tour includes a visit to Refuge Locatelli (2438 meters)—a perfect spot for a break and, optionally, a hearty mountain lunch. The refuge offers a chance to enjoy local flavors while soaking in the mountain scenery. This part of the experience is highly praised for its authentic atmosphere and stunning vistas.

Dinosaur Tracks (if available)

Some tours mention the possibility of visiting Dinosaur Tracks, which adds a fun and educational element to the day, especially for those interested in geology and natural history.

Drone Follow and Video

A key feature that sets this tour apart is the drone follow. The guide or drone operator will chase you as you hike, capturing dynamic video footage from angles impossible to get yourself. Guests have described their videos as a memorable takeaway, often sharing how fun and surreal it was to be chased by a flying camera. As one reviewer put it, “Get chased by the drone and take home your video,” turning a scenic hike into a Hollywood-style adventure.

Return and Reflection

After enjoying the views, the group typically returns to the van and heads back to Venice, arriving around 6 pm. The whole day is designed to balance active exploration with moments of awe and relaxation.

Why We Love This Tour

Stunning Panoramic Views
The Dolomites are known for their jaw-dropping beauty, and this tour hits some of the most iconic spots like Tre Cime di Lavaredo. You’ll love the 360° vistas and the opportunity to photograph the signature peaks and rugged landscapes.

Engaging Guides Like Fabio
Guest reviews highlight guides like Fabio for their humorous, friendly attitude and extensive knowledge. One reviewer said, “Very informative and funny,” making the day both educational and entertaining.

Unique Drone Footage
Being chased by a drone while hiking adds an element of fun and modern technology that many travelers find unforgettable. The videos captured are a great way to relive the experience and share the adventure with friends.

Authentic Mountain Atmosphere
Visiting refuges like Locatelli offers a glimpse into mountain life—serving hearty food and providing a cozy atmosphere amidst grandeur. It’s a taste of authentic Alpine culture without the hassle of planning.

Practical Aspects and Value

Duration and Flexibility

The 8-hour tour is a full day of activity, balancing hiking, sightseeing, and relaxation. Check the availability for start times, as early mornings or late mornings can work better depending on your schedule.

Group Size and Personal Attention

Limited to 7 participants, the small group setting ensures you get close guidance and personalized tips. This is especially valuable in a terrain that can be challenging for less experienced hikers.

Transportation Convenience

Round-trip transportation from Venice simplifies logistics immensely; you won’t need to worry about parking or navigating mountain roads yourself. It makes the experience accessible for travelers staying in Venice who prefer a hassle-free day trip.

Cost and Included Features

At roughly $204 per person, the price includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and the unique drone footage. Food and drinks are not included, so budget for a snack or meal at the refuges if desired.

Considerations

The physical activity involved requires moderate fitness. If you’re not comfortable with a 400-meter climb or uneven terrain, you might want to assess your ability beforehand. Also, prepare for changing mountain weather—wind jackets and trekking shoes are recommended, no matter the forecast.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

Guests consistently praise the guides, with comments like “friendly guides,” and “Fabio was an excellent guide.” One reviewer even noted that Fabio kept the trip interesting with his humor and explanations, making the hike less tiring and more engaging.

The drone footage aspect is a huge hit, described as “a very beautiful hike and would definitely do again.” Travelers love the idea of taking home a video that captures the thrill of the hike from a bird’s-eye view, transforming a simple mountain walk into a fun, cinematic experience.

Additional Highlights Mentioned

• Refuge Auronzo offers spectacular first views and a good starting point.
• The Lavaredo Fork route is praised for its dramatic scenery.
• The optional lunch at Refuge Locatelli provides hearty, traditional mountain fare.
• Seeing Dinosaur Tracks adds an unexpected twist for geology buffs.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, spectacular scenery, and modern tech gadgets. It caters well to those who want a guided, manageable day trip from Venice with authentic mountain stops. The small-group setting makes it perfect for travelers seeking personalized attention and a more intimate connection with the landscape.

It may not suit those with mobility challenges or travelers seeking a purely leisurely sightseeing day. The physical demands, though moderate, require comfortable trekking shoes and a wind jacket.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip transportation by van, a guided experience with an expert guide like Fabio, and the drone follow footage. Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase at the refuges.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 8 hours, with starting times generally around 10 am. The schedule may vary slightly depending on availability.

What should I bring?
Bring trekking shoes, a wind jacket, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses. If you plan to eat at the refuges, bring some cash or card for purchases.

Is the trek difficult?
It involves about 400 meters of elevation gain, which is manageable for most with some hiking experience. The terrain can be uneven, so proper footwear is essential.

Can I participate if I’m not an experienced hiker?
Yes, if you are comfortable with moderate trekking and prepared for some physical activity, you should be fine. The guides tailor the experience to the group’s pace.

Is the drone footage safe and reliable?
Yes, the drone follow technique is designed to be fun and safe. The guide or drone operator ensures smooth filming, resulting in a unique video keepsake.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic hiking, cultural mountain refuges, and fun tech with the drone chase and video. It’s a worthwhile choice for travelers who value authentic mountain experiences without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves. The small-group format guarantees more personalized guidance, and the iconic views of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo make it a photographer’s dream.

While it requires a modest level of fitness, the rewards—stunning vistas, cozy refuges, and unforgettable footage—are well worth the effort. Whether you’re a nature lover, a technology enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable day trip from Venice, this experience checks many boxes.

In summary, this tour is best suited for active travelers craving authentic Dolomite scenery, guided support, and a dash of modern fun. It offers great value considering the inclusion of transportation, expert guidance, and a memorable drone video keepsake. If you’re after a day that combines adventure, culture, and beautiful landscapes, this experience will not disappoint.

You can check if your dates are available here: