Forget the old image of hiking as a chore involving blisters and grumpy teenagers. The Dolomites, with their jagged shark-tooth peaks rising from emerald meadows, are drawing a new wave of British travellers who want active holidays without sacrificing style. This summer, the 'gorpcore' trend — outdoor gear reimagined as fashion — is making mountain trails as much a catwalk as a fitness challenge.
Footwear is the cornerstone of any hiking wardrobe, and brands like Keen, The North Face and Arc'teryx are leading the charge. One seasoned hiker swapped ubiquitous Salomon boots for Keen shoes with interchangeable laces, allowing a fresh look each day. Layering is key: think Ganni boxer shorts paired with a baby tee, or a dad-style hat and wraparound sunglasses. The trick is juxtaposition — loose with slim, feminine with masculine — to avoid looking like a walking catalogue.
Practical essentials remain non-negotiable. A backpack or vest stuffed with snacks, blister plasters and high-factor SPF is a must. Headgear, whether a bandana or hat, protects against the Alpine sun, while a swimsuit is essential for post-hike spa sessions. The Hotel Saltus in South Tyrol, a serene forest retreat, offers a stellar spa with sauna infusions where essential oils are wafted through the heat — a ritual that helps muscles recover after a day on the trails.
Popular routes include the loop around Lago di Carezza, whose blue-green waters are a photographer's dream, and the Adolf Munkel Trail, where walkers can stop for a long lunch at Geisler Alm. Kaiserschmarrn — shredded pancake pieces dusted with icing sugar — provides the fuel for an afternoon's trek. June is the ideal month to visit, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than peak summer.
For UK travellers, the Dolomites offer a practical escape from heatwaves: mountain air that feels restorative, Italian cuisine, and the cosy Alpine atmosphere of neighbouring Austria. Flights from UK airports to Verona, Venice or Innsbruck are frequent, with onward transfers by taxi or hire car. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) currently advises standard precautions for Italy, with no specific travel warnings for the Dolomites region. Travel insurance should cover mountain rescue and medical evacuation, as trails can be remote. Visa-free entry applies for British passport holders for stays up to 90 days.