Inclusive youth camp in the Dolomites

The aim of the camp was clear: to provide access to the mountains for those who rarely, if ever, have the chance to experience them. We debated whether the Dolomites, often crowded and known as a tourist hotspot, were the right choice.

After careful consideration, taking into account logistics, accessibility, and the needs of our group, we agreed it was still a worthwhile destination. We chose remote, small huts and quieter trails that better suited our group’s composition and comfort. And although we had aimed to avoid the busiest areas, we made one exception: a hike to the iconic Tre Cime. The view was absolutely breathtaking, though the crowds in made the experience feel less intimate, highlighting the very real challenges of overtourism.

Fortunately, the weather was kind to us. We were able to soak in the stunning scenery and enjoy many moments of true peace. It was inspiring to watch the young participants, many of whom are active and relatively sporty, yet had never hiked at such altitudes or slept in a mountain hut, interact with the landscape, with each other, and with themselves.

The mountains have a way of revealing and helping to process inner struggles, especially when the uphill path seems endless. Long hikes are therapeutic in that sense: they demand persistence, presence and patience. Distractions fade away, leaving only thirst, hunger and tired legs. In a group, you learn to wait for one another, to listen, to support, and to adapt. You learn to navigate someone’s endless chatter or quiet withdrawal. You share snacks, stories and silence. And slowly, the world simplifies. It reduces to the essentials – our basic human needs and the bonds we build along the way.

Beyond that, the camp offered many moments that naturally led to discussions about sustainability and the climate crisis. Whether we were observing melting snowfields, navigating waste management in mountain huts, or simply reflecting on our own consumption habits. The mountains became a powerful classroom for environmental awareness. Snow in summer, shimmering alpine lake, endless chains of peaks, and the thrill of reaching a summit, – these are memories that will stay with us. This camp was a part of the Via Alpina Youth Project and was co-financed by the European Union.