San Vito sits beneath Antelao, the “King of the Dolomites”, and makes a rewarding base for walking. One classic destination is Rifugio San Marco, at 1,823 metres, surrounded by the rock walls of Antelao, Sorapis and the Marmarole. Walking time and elevation gain depend on your starting point: reaching the hut is a mountain hike in its own right.

For a gentler day, walk around Lake Mosigo or explore the paths near Serdes. For longer outings, the local rifugi provide stopping points for mountain traverses and high-level hikes. Ascents of the Antelao and Sorapis summits are mountaineering undertakings requiring specific skills and experience.

Lake Sorapis, reached from Passo Tre Croci along trail 215, is one of the area’s best-known hikes. Its turquoise water is a wonderful incentive, but the approach deserves careful consideration: exposed sections, fixed cables and metal steps require sure footing.

Around Cortina, mountain history and the First World War are closely connected. Some routes follow places used by soldiers, while tunnels, trenches and restored positions preserve that history, particularly around Lagazuoi and Cinque Torri.

A via ferrata follows rock faces and passages equipped with fixed cables, rungs and ladders. Routes vary considerably: exposure, elevation gain, overall length and the descent matter just as much as individual climbing sections.

For rock climbing, Cinque Torri is one of the area’s landmark locations. Walkers can explore the surrounding trails and open-air Great War museum, while those wanting to climb can arrange a day with a guide.

Running here means woodland paths, sustained climbs and open mountain landscapes, with everything from lower valley routes to more technical terrain at altitude.

Cortina hosts the Lavaredo Ultra Trail by UTMB, an international event taking runners through some of the Dolomites’ most recognisable scenery. Its flagship Lavaredo 120K covers 120 kilometres with 5,800 metres of ascent, starting and finishing in Cortina.

You do not need to be preparing for an ultra to enjoy the trails. Choose a shorter run around San Vito or plan a longer outing near Cortina. Higher routes demand mountain experience, self-sufficiency and careful attention to conditions.

To train on a race section, consult the official track for the relevant edition and check access before leaving. Staying near Cortina makes it possible to plan your runs while enjoying the quieter surroundings of Serdes.