If you’re thinking of heading to the mountains this year and fear that summer is already too close to enjoy days of walking among Italy’s most beautiful landscapes, we’re here to prove you wrong.
Written by the SloWays Team
Every summer, the mountains cast an irresistible spell, drawing walkers of all ages who can already picture themselves among the peaks: escaping the sweltering heat and retreating to fresh air, enchanting summits, warm hospitality and delicious food, perfect for refuelling after hours of walking through breathtaking scenery.
Perhaps you’re dreaming of it too: cool air, trails winding through forests and alpine meadows, the silence of mountain valleys, and the pleasure of reaching a welcoming refuge where you can rest after a day’s walk — or simply enjoy an excellent lunch.
It’s true: by this stage, it may be difficult to book the most famous treks. Many iconic routes — such as the Dolomites Alta Via or the Tour du Mont Blanc — are reserved well in advance, which is why we always recommend booking even a year ahead to secure availability.
But sometimes planning that far in advance just isn’t possible. Perhaps you’ve only just received confirmation of your holiday dates, had other plans, or simply had other things on your mind.
That’s absolutely fine.
You certainly haven’t missed your chance to enjoy a mountain holiday.
There are many lesser-known routes, away from the main tourist flows, in places that are not yet on everyone’s lips and which, for that very reason, still offer wonderful surprises and the possibility of booking with just a few months’ notice.
And this is by no means about settling for second best. These trips offer spectacular views, unspoilt nature, mountain villages under crystal-clear skies and trails that inspire wonder with every step.
In this article, we suggest some of our mountain holidays that are often still available even at short notice: when the most iconic and popular routes are already sold out, these are an excellent alternative for walkers who love the mountains.
If you’re looking for inspiration for your next Camino, or want help choosing the itinerary that best matches your needs,
take our quiz at the link below!
It’s not just about booking later.
By choosing a lesser-known route, you can experience the mountains with fewer crowds: quieter trails, refuges and hotels still ready to welcome you, and the feeling of truly connecting with nature.
The valleys and villages crossed by these itineraries often preserve vibrant traditions: languages influenced by neighbouring countries, cuisines rich in distinctive flavours, and cultures not yet overwhelmed by mass tourism. The result is often a more authentic connection with the local area.
You’ll also have a better chance of finding last-minute availability, booking closer to your departure date.
This certainly doesn’t mean the routes are any less beautiful: enchanting alpine panoramas, forests, vividly coloured lakes and peaks standing against the sky are by no means exclusive to the most famous trails.
You may be pleasantly surprised.
In general, these itineraries offer a more relaxed pace, less pressure from the “must-do classic,” and more opportunities to make the journey truly your own.
So don’t think of them as a compromise. On the contrary, by booking at the last minute you may discover your next favourite destination.
This relatively easy itinerary (we also offer an even easier version, perfect for families with teenagers or very active children) combines the beauty of the mountains with the pleasures of South Tyrolean cuisine and culture.
Panoramic trails through chestnut groves, vineyards, small villages and monasteries; the charm of lively Bolzano; and landscapes at the foot of the Dolomites that retain all their magic, allowing anyone to enjoy a mountain holiday without tackling technical routes.
Anyone looking for a first mountain trek, wanting to test themselves before more challenging routes, travelling with family, or seeking the perfect balance between mountains and culture.
A serene and beautiful itinerary, and one of the most varied in South Tyrol: jagged peaks alternate with alpine pastures, apple orchards and historic villages where you can pause and savour that wonderfully reassuring feeling of truly being on holiday. The trail follows a sunny slope where alpine landscapes blend with almost Mediterranean atmospheres.
Beautiful paths through meadows, larch forests, ancient farmsteads and orchards, mountain villages and elegant Merano, with its Mitteleuropean charm. You’ll also see iconic sights such as Lake Resia and its famous submerged bell tower.
Those seeking a panoramic and well-organised trek, with the opportunity to add extra days for exploration, culture and excellent food (and to take plenty of beautiful photos).
If you dream of the classic Dolomite landscapes, this is one of the best opportunities still available even as summer approaches. The trip takes you through some of the most iconic mountain groups in the Alps.
Imposing and dramatic rock towers, enchanting open meadows, comfortable mountain refuges where you can sample local dishes, and unforgettable views of the Rosengarten, Sassolungo and Sella groups.
Those who want to experience the atmosphere of the Dolomites without tackling an extreme trek, or who want to immerse themselves in these extraordinary landscapes without choosing very popular routes such as the Alta Via.
On the border between Piedmont and France, this is one of Italy’s most authentic and least crowded alpine valleys. A beautiful place, lovingly restored and cared for, where the villages seem to speak their own language and magic hides deep within the forests.
Occitan villages full of character, well-maintained trails, silence and mountain landscapes of extraordinary beauty.
Anyone who wants to experience a genuine mountain landscape, far from the busiest tourist destinations.
The Chestnut Trail – Perfect if you’re looking for a gentle and scenic experience, to prepare for a more adventurous holiday or enjoy time with your family.
Val di Fassa – If you dream of the most iconic Dolomite landscapes and want to walk in their very heart.
Val Venosta High Route – If you’d like a varied and well-connected trek, with many opportunities to add extra days in Merano and the surrounding area.
Val Maira – If you love authenticity and quiet, and want to be surprised by enchanting landscapes and a region with a rich, multifaceted identity.
In short, not booking far in advance does not necessarily mean giving up on the mountains.
On the contrary, it can be the perfect opportunity to discover lesser-known itineraries and places filled with a peace and tranquillity that are increasingly hard to find elsewhere.
Think of it as an opportunity to be found by a place you might never have searched for on your own.
There are valleys capable of offering the same sense of wonder as the most celebrated destinations.
If you feel the call of the mountains, write to us: we’ll help you find the place that is truly calling you.
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Nominee Best Specialist Tour Operator 2025
Touroperating
S-Cape Countryside Travels srl
Borgo Allegri 16R
50122 Firenze FI
P. IVA 05227330486
