Dolomites

The Dolomites—Italy's jagged limestone playground where dramatic spires pierce alpine meadows and turquoise lakes mirror impossible rock formations. This UNESCO World Heritage mountain range stretches across northeastern Italy, offering year-round adventures: legendary ski slopes in winter (Cortina hosted the 1956 Olympics and will again in 2026), epic hiking trails in summer, and the famous Sella Ronda circuit connecting four mountain passes. Unlike crowded city attractions, most Dolomite experiences are free to access—you're paying for cable cars, parking, or guided activities, not entry tickets. The region spans South Tyrol (German-speaking), Trentino, and Veneto, creating a fascinating cultural blend of Italian, Austrian, and Ladin traditions.

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Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks)

-Iconic rock towers-

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These three iconic limestone towers (2,999m, 3,093m, 3,003m) are the most photographed peaks in the Dolomites—appearing in countless Instagram feeds, car commercials, and outdoor magazines. The classic loop trail circles the peaks in approximately 3-4 hours with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible to most hikers. Start early to beat the crowds and catch golden sunrise light on the north faces. During peak season (mid-June to October), you must book a parking pass in advance for Rifugio Auronzo—the access road is closed without a reservation. Check the official website for current booking requirements and shuttle bus alternatives from Misurina. The rifugio (mountain hut) at the trailhead serves hot meals and has overnight beds if you want to catch sunset and sunrise. This is serious alpine terrain—bring layers, as temperatures drop significantly above 2,300m even in summer. These

Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee)

-Turquoise alpine lake with boat rentals and hiking trails-

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The Dolomites' most Instagram-famous lake—that turquoise water with wooden boathouses you've definitely seen online. Peak season (July-August) brings massive crowds, so visit at sunrise or sunset for the iconic shot without hundreds of other photographers. During summer high season, road access is restricted and you must arrive by shuttle bus from nearby parking areas—check the official website for current access rules. Traditional wooden rowboats available for rental directly at the lake (no reservation needed, first-come basis). The flat 3.5km trail around the lake takes about 1.5 hours and offers stunning reflections of Seekofel mountain. In winter, the frozen lake becomes a magical ice-skating rink. The chapel at the lake's southern end is a beautiful photo spot. This is heavily promoted on social media, so expect crowds unless you arrive very early or visit shoulder season (May-June or September-October).

Seceda Ridge

-Dramatic ridgeline with 360° views-

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One of the most dramatic viewpoints in the Dolomites—the ridgeline drops nearly vertically on one side while rolling alpine meadows stretch on the other, creating an almost surreal landscape contrast. Access via cable car from Ortisei in Val Gardena (two-stage journey: Ortisei to Furnes, then Furnes to Seceda). The iconic photo spot is immediately at the top station—no hiking required, though you can explore further along the ridge. Best light for photography is early morning or late afternoon when the jagged peaks create long shadows. In summer, the meadows explode with wildflowers; in winter, it's a popular ski area. The exposure can be intense—bring sunscreen and wind protection even on seemingly calm days. Cable cars typically run year-round but check seasonal schedules and weather conditions before heading up. Popular with day-trippers from nearby towns, so midday can get busy at the summit.

Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)

-Europe's largest high alpine meadow-

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Europe's largest high alpine meadow (56 square kilometers) sits at 1,800-2,200m elevation with the dramatic Sassolungo and Sciliar peaks as backdrop. This is a car-free zone during most daylight hours in summer—access by cable car from Siusi/Seis or Ortisei, or drive up early morning/evening when roads open briefly. Hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails crisscross the plateau, from easy family walks to challenging mountain routes. In winter, it transforms into a cross-country skiing paradise with over 60km of groomed tracks. The meadow is dotted with traditional mountain huts (Baita/Hütte) serving South Tyrolean specialties like speck, cheese dumplings, and apple strudel—perfect for long lunch breaks. Spring (May-June) brings carpets of wildflowers; autumn (September) offers golden larch forests and fewer crowds. Bring cash as some remote huts don't accept cards. This is authentic alpine farming culture—respect grazing animals and stay on marked trails.

Cinque Torri

-Five rock towers with WWI trenches-

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Five distinctive rock towers rising from alpine meadows, famous for preserved WWI trenches and tunnels that you can explore freely. This was the front line between Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces from 1915-1917—the open-air museum shows trenches, bunkers, and artillery positions exactly as they were, with informational plaques throughout. Access via chairlift from Passo Falzarego (operates summer and winter) or hike up from the parking area. The loop trail around the towers takes about 2 hours including time to explore the war installations. Popular spot for rock climbers—you'll see people scaling the towers on over 50 different climbing routes. Rifugio Cinque Torri at the base serves meals and offers overnight accommodation. In winter, this becomes a scenic ski area with runs winding between the towers. The combination of natural beauty and poignant history makes this especially memorable. Bring a headlamp if you want to explore deeper into the tunnel systems.

Lago di Carezza (Karersee)

– Rainbow-colored lake with Lain backdrop-

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This tiny alpine lake (just 300m long) earns its nickname "Rainbow Lake" from the way light refracts through mineral-rich water, creating emerald greens, deep blues, and turquoise reflections of the Latemar peaks behind. Best lighting is mid-morning when sunlight hits the water directly. The lake sits roadside along SS241 with parking available nearby and a short flat trail that loops the shore. No swimming allowed to protect water quality. Visit in early summer (June) when snowmelt fills the lake to maximum depth and colors are most vibrant—by late August water levels drop significantly. The lake appears in Ladin legend: a wizard created a rainbow to capture a water nymph's heart, but she shattered it, leaving fragments in the water forever. The quick visit makes it perfect to combine with Passo Costalunga or Bolzano excursions.

Puez-Odle Nature Park

-UNESCO site with hiking trails and alpine meadows-

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This UNESCO-protected nature park covers 10,000+ hectares of pristine alpine landscape with dramatic rock formations, high-altitude meadows, and over 600 plant species. Less crowded than famous spots like Tre Cime, this is where you go for solitude and serious hiking. The Puez plateau offers relatively easy walks with spectacular geology—you can see rock layers spanning 280 million years of Earth's history. The Odle/Geisler group's jagged spires create one of the Dolomites' most recognizable skylines. Multiple access points from Val Gardena, Val di Funes, and Val Badia—choose based on your hiking ambitions and fitness level. Network of mountain huts allows multi-day treks for experienced hikers. Wildlife includes marmots, chamois, golden eagles, and ibex—bring binoculars. Spring wildflower displays (June-July) are extraordinary. This is a protected area: stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, no drones, no mountain biking off designated routes. Weather changes rapidly at altitude—always check forecasts and bring appropriate gear.

Passo Gardena (Grödner Joch)

-High mountain pass with stunning views-

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This mountain pass connects Val Gardena with Alta Badia and sits at 2,121m elevation, offering panoramic views of the Sella massif. The pass is part of the famous Sella Ronda circuit—you can drive, cycle, ski (winter), or hike the route depending on season. In summer, it's a popular stop for road cyclists tackling Dolomite passes—expect to see lycra-clad riders everywhere. The chapel at the summit (Cappella di Santa Croce) dates to 1934 and provides a peaceful rest stop. Rifugio Passo Gardena serves meals with terrace views. This is a major through-route, so expect traffic during peak times—but the views make every hairpin turn worthwhile. Winter brings the Sella Ronda ski circuit, where you can ski a 40km loop connecting four valleys without repeating a run. The pass usually closes or requires snow chains/chains requirement in winter—check road conditions before driving. Sunrise and sunset light on the Sella towers is spectacular for photography.

Sella Ronda

-Famous ski loop drive/hike in summer with panoramic views-

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The legendary 40km circuit around the Sella massif connects four mountain passes and four valleys (Val Gardena, Alta Badia, Arabba, Val di Fassa). In winter, this is one of the world's most famous ski circuits—you can ski the entire loop in a day using 26 lifts without repeating a single run, choosing either clockwise (orange route) or counterclockwise (green route). In summer, the same route becomes epic for road cyclists, motorbikes, and scenic drives. Each valley has distinct character: Val Gardena (Ladin culture, resort towns), Alta Badia (gourmet mountain huts, Michelin-starred rifugi), Arabba (steeper terrain, quieter), Val di Fassa (dramatic Marmolada views). The circuit requires the Dolomiti Superski pass in winter—one pass covers 1,200km of slopes across 12 ski areas. Summer cycling attracts road bikers from across Europe tackling the challenging climbs. Allow 6-8 hours for the full ski circuit (intermediate level), or break it into sections. This is bucket-list Dolomites experience combining sport, scenery, and South Tyrolean culture.

Lake Molveno & Paganella

-Crystal-clear lake with beach and adventure park-

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Lake Molveno consistently ranks among Italy's most beautiful lakes—crystal-clear turquoise water surrounded by Brenta Dolomites on one side and the Paganella massif on the other. Unlike dramatic mountain lakes you can only admire, Molveno offers a sandy beach, swimming areas, paddleboard and kayak rentals, making it family-friendly. The lakeside town has hotels and restaurants but maintains a quieter, less commercialized atmosphere than larger resort areas. Cable car from Molveno town whisks you up to Pradel plateau on Paganella mountain for hiking trails and panoramic views. The area offers adventure park activities including zip-lining and via ferrata routes for those seeking adrenaline. In winter, Paganella becomes a ski area with runs suitable for families and intermediates—less famous than Cortina but also less crowded and more affordable. The lake promenade is perfect for evening strolls. Water temperature reaches swimmable levels (18-20°C) by July. This is an excellent base for families wanting to combine mountain activities with lakeside relaxation.

Cortina d'Ampezzo

--Glamorous mountain town with Tofana and Olympic ski slopes-

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The "Queen of the Dolomites"—a glamorous mountain resort town that hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics and will co-host the 2026 Games. Cortina blends serious alpine credentials with Italian fashion sense: expect designer boutiques on the pedestrian Corso Italia alongside serious mountaineering shops. The town sits in a spectacular basin surrounded by iconic peaks—Tofana, Cristallo, Sorapiss—offering some of the Dolomites' most challenging ski terrain in winter. Summer brings rock climbing, via ferrata routes, and high-altitude hiking from multiple cable cars radiating from town. This is decidedly upscale—accommodation and dining cost significantly more than neighboring valleys, but the sophistication and mountain access justify it for many visitors. The Olympic ice stadium, ski jump, and bobsled track remain from 1956 and are being renovated for 2026. Cortina serves as an excellent base for exploring the eastern Dolomites, with Tre Cime, Lago di Braies, and Cinque Torri all within 30-45 minutes' drive. Expect crowds during peak winter weeks and August—shoulder seasons (June, September) offer better value and weather.

Passo Pordoi

-High pass with cable car to Sass Pordoi summit-

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At 2,239m, this is the highest paved pass in the Dolomites and a key link in the Sella Ronda circuit. The cable car from the pass summit climbs to Sass Pordoi (2,950m) in just a few minutes, delivering you to one of the most spectacular 360° viewpoints in the entire mountain range—on clear days you can see the Marmolada glacier, Sella massif, and peaks stretching to Austria. The summit terrace and rifugio offer meals with unbeatable views. This is a popular stop for motorcycle tours—expect to see rows of bikes parked at the summit during summer weekends. In winter, the pass closes to vehicles due to snow, but the cable car operates for skiers accessing the Sella Ronda circuit. The famous Pordoi road has 27 hairpin bends on the western approach—a classic climb for road cyclists. The Museum of the Great War at the pass summit documents WWI mountain warfare in this area. Sunset from Sass Pordoi is unforgettable as alpenglow lights up the Dolomite peaks. Weather can change dramatically in minutes at this altitude—the cable car closes during storms.

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Dolomites

Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks)

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Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee)

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Seceda Ridge

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Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)

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Cinque Torri

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Lago di Carezza (Karersee)

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Puez-Odle Nature Park

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Passo Gardena (Grödner Joch)

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Sella Ronda

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Lake Molveno & Paganella

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Cortina d'Ampezzo

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Passo Pordoi

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Dolomites Tourist Office web-page ✅️

Public Transport Südtirol Mobil / Trentino Trasporti ✅️

–buses, trains, cable cars-