Dolomites

Dolomiti

The Dolomites are a UNESCO-listed mountain range offering dramatic peaks, alpine meadows, and world-class skiing and hiking. The Veneto portion includes resorts like Cortina d'Ampezzo.

Things to do

• Ski in Cortina d'Ampezzo — The Dolomiti Superski pass covers hundreds of slopes across the region.
• Hike the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop — A moderate 10km trail with iconic three-peak views, best in July–September.
• Drive the Great Dolomites Road — The scenic route from Bolzano to Cortina passes through stunning mountain scenery.
• Visit Lake Misurina — A peaceful alpine lake perfect for a morning walk and reflection photography.
• Climb via ferrata routes — Well-equipped routes suit intermediate climbers; rent gear in Cortina.
• Alpe di Siusi Plateau Walk — Stroll Europe's largest high-altitude alpine meadow with panoramic Dolomite peaks as a backdrop.
• Visit Castel Roncolo — Explore a 13th-century castle near Bolzano featuring remarkably preserved medieval frescoes inside.
• Lago di Braies Rowboat — Rent a wooden rowboat on this emerald lake surrounded by dramatic cliffs, best at sunrise.
• Cinque Torri Sunset — Hike to these five iconic rock towers at dusk for golden-hour photography and WWI open-air museum nearby.
• Seceda Ridge Gondola — Take the cable car to Seceda for a jaw-dropping ridge walk above the Val Gardena valley.

Food to try

• Canederli — Large bread dumplings served in broth or with butter and cheese, a mountain staple.
• Casunziei — Beet-filled pasta half-moons topped with poppy seeds and melted butter.
• Speck — Lightly smoked, cured ham from the mountain region, often served with dark bread.
• Strudel di mele — Apple strudel with a thin pastry crust, a beloved Alpine dessert.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect mountain trails — Stay on marked paths and carry a map; mountain weather changes rapidly.
• German-Italian bilingualism — Many locals near the border speak German as a first language; both are widely used.
• Rifugio culture — Mountain huts (rifugi) are central to Alpine life; book ahead in peak summer season.