Travel Tips/Blog

If hiking in the Italian Alps is calling your name, there’s no better adventure than the Alta Via 1 (AV1)—a 75-mile hut-to-hut trek in the Dolomites that delivers world-class views, rustic charm, and one hell of a personal accomplishment. I hiked the Alta Via 1 Dolomites trail in July 2024 and I’m here to walk you through everything you need to know: the itinerary, how to book rifugios, when to go, and how to prep like a pro. And if all the planning feels overwhelming—don’t worry. I’ve created the Ultimate Alta Via 1 Digital Guide , a downloadable planning tool that takes all the guesswork out of your AV1 adventure (more on that below). What Is the Alta Via 1? The Alta Via 1 (often called Alta Via One or AV1) is a legendary long-distance hike in the Dolomites, stretching from Lago di Braies to Belluno. Most hikers complete it in 6 to 11 days, depending on fitness and pace. 🥾 Total Distance: ~120 km / 75 miles ⛰️ Elevation Gain: Over 23,000 feet 🛏️ Lodging: Stay in family-run rifugios with meals, beds, and wine 🍝 Bonus: Delicious homemade pasta, mountain saunas, and even a microbrewery

The Alta Via 1 is the ultimate Dolomites hiking adventure —a 9-day journey through Italy’s most stunning mountain landscapes. Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of the exact itinerary I followed , including distances, elevation changes, and key highlights to help you plan your trek with confidence. Day 1: Lago di Braies to Rifugio Fodara Vedla Distance: 13 km / 8.1 miles Elevation Gain: 880 m / 2,890 ft Elevation Loss: 220 m / 720 ft Your journey kicks off at the postcard-perfect Lago di Braies , one of the most photographed lakes in the Dolomites. After taking in the view, you’ll begin climbing into alpine pastures and forests. The day ends at Rifugio Fodara Vedla , a peaceful mountain hut with sweeping views and cozy alpine charm—a perfect start to your AV1 adventure.

If you're dreaming of hiking in the Italian Dolomites, you're probably overwhelmed by options. With endless peaks, valleys, and scenic day hikes, it’s hard to choose where to begin. But if you're looking for the most immersive, scenic, and culturally rich experience the Alps have to offer, the Alta Via 1 (AV1) stands out as the best hike in the Dolomites—hands down. This multi-day hut-to-hut trail combines jaw-dropping alpine views, historic World War I tunnels, charming rifugios, and some of the most rewarding hiking you'll find anywhere in Europe. What Is the Alta Via 1? The Alta Via 1 is a legendary long-distance hiking trail in the Dolomites, stretching about 75 miles (120 km) from Lago di Braies in the north to Belluno in the south. It typically takes 6 to 11 days to complete, depending on your pace and experience level. You’ll hike through a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sleep in rustic-yet-cozy mountain huts (rifugios), and eat your weight in pasta, polenta, and alpine cheese. This is not just a hike—it’s a full sensory experience. Quick Facts: 🥾 Distance: ~120 km / 75 miles ⛰️ Elevation Gain: Over 23,000 feet 🏠 Accommodation: Family-owned rifugios with beds and meals 📍 Route: North to south — from Lago di Braies to Belluno 🍷 Perks: Italian meals, luxurious stays, saunas, microbreweries, panoramic ridgelines

When was the last time you gave yourself permission to pause?

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the magic of Morocco—camel rides across sweeping desert dunes, ancient medinas filled with spices and stories, the iconic blue alleyways of Chefchaouen, and vibrant markets buzzing with life—this itinerary is your ultimate guide. Morocco is a place of contrasts and wonder: where the Sahara meets snow-capped mountains, where thousand-year-old traditions live side-by-side with modern city life, and where every day feels like stepping into a storybook. I’ve spent months researching, refining, and curating the perfect route through this unforgettable country—and this blog post lays out exactly how to experience Morocco at its best. Bonus? I’m leading a women’s group trip following this exact itinerary in November 2025 , and we still have a few spots left (more on that at the end). Let’s dive into the best Morocco itinerary that hits every highlight and beyond.

Travel Light & Hippy Fit present: Sedona Women’s Wellness Retreat July 16-20, 2025 Indulge in serenity and self-care amidst the captivating landscapes of Sedona, Arizona, surrounded by a circle of fun and loving women. This 5-day/4-night retreat promises a transformative experience, leaving you feeling replenished and empowered to embrace life with renewed energy. You will instantly find peace in our luxury retreat home with its stunning backdrop of Thunder Mountain and access to hiking trails from the backyard! This home will be our healing space for the duration of the retreat. Our days will offer a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, self-care, and connection. You’ll enjoy exciting bonding activities like hiking, a Pink Jeep Tour, and Aura photos. When it’s time to cool down and unwind, you can relax by the pool or Sedona’s Oak Creek. There will also be opportunities for rejuvenation through Yoga and meditation. Delicious, healthy meals will be a mix of family-style at the retreat house, catering, and restaurants. Your soul will thank you for investing in this intentional time for yourself.

 Join us for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Peru as we hike the legendary 26-mile Inca Trail to the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu! This group trip, organized by Travel Light, promises an immersive experience filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. We Kick off our adventure in the charming city of Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. We’ll spend the first few days acclimatizing to the altitude while exploring Cusco’s vibrant markets, exquisite colonial architecture, and nearby archaeological sites. Enjoy a guided tour to the Sacred Valley, where you’ll marvel at the ancient ruins of Ollantaytambo and Pisac. Enjoy local cuisine and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this enchanting region. The journey continues as we embark on the iconic Inca Trail. Over four exhilarating days, we’ll trek through stunning Andean landscapes, lush cloud forests, and fascinating Incan sites. Our expert local guides will share stories of the Incas, and each campsite will offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. On the final day, we’ll rise early to reach the Sun Gate at sunrise, revealing the majestic Machu Picchu in all its glory. Take your time to explore this wonder, learning about its history and significance before returning to Cusco.

Hike the highlights of the Tour du Mont Blanc with Travel Light. Join me as we hike and eat our way through France, Italy, and Switzerland on the Tour du Mont Blanc. We are hiking a 70-mile section of the most popular trek in Europe. Luxury Trekking is a unique way to experience the mountains on foot without carrying heavy gear. Spend 7 nights in family-owned mountain lodges and enjoy delicious 3-course meals, hot showers, and a fun communal atmosphere shared by people from all around the world. After our fourth day on trail we will indulge in a full rest day in Ceourmayeur - an Italian ski town where a spa day and massage will restore your energy and spirit. Hiking 70 miles will test your physical and mental strength - and it will be worth every moment! Our journey starts and ends in Chamonix - a picturesque ski town in France that will take your breath away. Meet your fellow trekkers, explore town, shop for gear, and carb up before we hit the trail. Training is required as these trails include some serious gains! We will be hiking uphill for several hours a day. Bring your broken-in hiking boots and your spirit of adventure. Lets make unforgettable memories together!