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Best extra difficult hikes in Italy
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Best extra difficult hikes in Italy

Only the bravest need apply! These extra-difficult hikes are not for the faint of heart.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Italy.

Most popular hikes

1

Extra Difficult

Via Alpina - Red Trail

Muggia, Italy · star 4.9 (7) · 1891.8 km · Est. 134 days

2

Extra Difficult

Alta Via 2

Eisacktal - Valle Isarco, Italy · star 4.8 (9) · 172.8 km · Est. 13 days

3

Extra Difficult

Sentiero Italia - Alps Section

Muggia, Italy · star N/A (0) · 2775.8 km · Est. 200 days

4

Extra Difficult

Cinque Terre Coastal Trail

Monterosso Al Mare, Italy · star 4.8 (14) · 29.7 km · Est. 2 days

5

Extra Difficult

Sentiero Italia - Apennines Section

La Spezia, Italy · star N/A (0) · 1111.4 km · Est. 74 days

6

Extra Difficult

Cammino Celeste

Grado, Italy · star 5.0 (3) · 203.0 km · Est. 12 days

7

Extra Difficult

Dolomiten - Höhenweg

Pustertal - Val Pusteria, Italy · star 4.4 (9) · 110.7 km · Est. 9 days

8

Extra Difficult

Via Alpina - Blue Trail

Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, Italy · star 4.5 (8) · 828.8 km · Est. 33 days

9

Extra Difficult

Alta Via Valmalenco

Sondrio, Italy · star 4.0 (1) · 85.2 km · Est. 5 days

10

Extra Difficult

Sentiero Italia - Calabria Section

Campobasso, Italy · star N/A (0) · 1096.9 km · Est. 70 days

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Reviews for extra difficult hikes in Italy

avatar

Via Alpina - Red Trail

RockyOutfitter24 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

avatar

Alta Via 2

Nicola Cochrane · reviewed over 4 years ago

star star star star star

This is a hard trail and we did not have Via Ferratti kit so we did some edits and did some of it without kit. I intend to go back with a harness and carabiners. The route is so well marked and the views are spectacular. Italian Rifugios are excellent for food and accommodation although I would suggest having lunch in Rifugio Diaz and then walk on down to Feltre as the dorms are crowded and the washing facilities are poor. Of note I had 8 kg in my rucksack but would prefer to have had it under 5kg.

No reviews available for Sentiero Italia - Alps Section.

Tristan Dunford avatar

Cinque Terre Coastal Trail

Tristan Dunford · reviewed about 5 years ago

star star star star star

Part of the path was closed due to maintenance, I would check that out in advance. Food sights and culture where amazing!

No reviews available for Sentiero Italia - Apennines Section.

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Italy

What is the climate like for hiking in Italy?

Italy's diverse climate makes it a year-round hiking destination. Spring offers pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes, perfect for exploring trails from the Dolomites to the Amalfi Coast.
Summers can be very hot, particularly in the south, so early morning or high-altitude hikes are recommended.
Autumn, with its mild climate and vibrant foliage, is ideal for hiking, while winter offers stunning snow-clad trails in the northern regions. Spring and autumn are generally the best times to hike. For detailed climate data, visit https://climateknowledgeportal.worldbank.org/country/italy.

Do I need a permit to hike in Italy?

Most hiking trails in Italy do not require permits, but for protected areas like national parks, entry fees or permits may apply. Always check requirements with the managing agency, often the local park authority or municipality. More information can be found at Italian Ministry of Environment.

Is wild camping allowed in Italy?

Wild camping in Italy is largely regulated and often prohibited to protect the environment. Always check with local authorities or landowners. Designated campsites offer a legal and comfortable alternative. Familiarize yourself with local regulations at Italian Camping Federation.

Are there mountain rescue services in Italy?

In case of emergencies while hiking in Italy, dial 112. The Corpo Nazionale Soccorso Alpino e Speleologico (CNSAS) is the primary organization for mountain and cave rescue. It's advisable to inform local authorities about your hiking plans. Learn more at CNSAS.

Are there dangerous plants in Italy?

Italy's diverse flora ranges from Alpine wildflowers to Mediterranean scrubland. Be aware of spiny or allergenic plants like nettles or poison ivy. Italy's rich plant life, from chestnut groves to olive orchards, adds to the charm of any hike. More information can be found at Italian Botanical Society.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Italy?

Italy's diverse habitats host various animals, from Alpine ibex to Mediterranean sea turtles. Hikers should be prepared for insect encounters, especially mosquitoes and ticks, by using repellents. Respect wildlife and maintain distance for an enriching hiking experience. Learn more at Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research.

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