When traveling through the Dolomites, most people speak or understand a little bit of English, but knowing some basic Italian and German is helpful and appreciated by the locals. Once finished the hike, if you still have energy left, add on the hike to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint. In October, once the snow begins to fall, the trails close. Day One: Day # 1 Arrive from Venice, Milan, or Verona. On our next visit to the Dolomites, we made it a point to dine at the rifugios as much as possible. This hike is 3.2 km (2 miles) round trip and takes 1 to 2 hours. DAY 1 - PASSO PARDOI. Now I'm a full-time travel blogger, a citizen of both Europe and the US, and an all-out road trip guru. MORE INFORMATION: For all of our articles about the Dolomites, take a look at our Dolomites Travel Guide. Where is the Best Place to Stay in the Dolomites? Summer is also the best time of the year to go on all the possible hikes, since most . Eat Your Way through the Dolomites. This beautiful 5-star hotel has a great location in town. The earliest I recommend planning a hiking trip is early June. While fall and winter in the Dolomites can be a beautiful experience witnessing the changing colors of the leaves, and fresh snow both on the mountains and on the ground, it's the spring season that truly affords magical and stunning views of its pristine landscape, and the month of April is the best time for visiting the Italian Alps. Summers is the most popular time to visit the Dolomites (and my favorite) because it is warm, bright, sunny, and full of possible adventures. And to help you plan your time, take a look at our one day in Venice itinerary and two days in Venice itinerary. To get a parking space, get here no later than 9 am, although earlier is even better. Beyond that, I find the Dolomites to be in an area of Italy where Germanic and Italian cultures come together in perfect union to create a very special and unique vibe. Dominated by 18 majestic peaks, its diverse landscape consists of more than 350,000 acres of jagged pinnacles, sheer rock faces, icy glaciers, deep gorges, lush forests, and verdant . This is where jagged pinnacles of rock soar into the sky, mountain huts and cabins dot the green, rolling hills, cable cars whisk hikers and skiers to the highest mountain peaks, and hiking trails connect small hamlets and towns. Yes, anytime you travel outside of your country, you need to cover your bum. The Lago di Sorapis hike is 12 km (7.5 miles) and takes 3 to 5 hours, a little longer if you hike up and over Forcella Marcuoira, which is a wonderful addition to this hike. Optional: Add on the hike to Piz Bo, one of the easiest 3,000+ meter peaks in the Dolomites to summit (5.3 km/3.3 miles, 2 to 4 hours). 15 Epic Day Hikes in the Dolomites (RANKED!!) - Earth Trekkers Dont expect fancy online reservations or confirmation emails. In this guide, we hope to clear up this confusion and hopefully answer some questions that you didnt even know you had. On the theme of driving, my wife has read ( in your article and others) about the narrow roads and many hairpin turns, to the point that she is on the fence about visiting this region. PRO TRAVEL TIP: A rifugio (also called a htte) is a mountain hut. Its a fairly easy drive from Venice to Cortina and in Cortina you can ride the Tofana cable car, but to get to any other hiking trail, you will drive those narrow roads and mostly likely cross a mountain pass. There is a lot to do right around Val Gardena, but this will involve driving over several mountain passes, both to get to the town and then to a hiking trail/gondola station. You will give them your name, and the date you are wanting lodging and thats it. On our first visit, which lasted 3 days, we had a rainy day and clouds on the others. If you like active vacations, summer is the prime time to visit the Dolomites. The Dolomites are a mountain range in northeastern Italy. TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY: For more information about the camera gear we carry, check out our Travel Photography Gear Guide. Piz Boe. So, after reading all these goodies, what is the best time to visit the Dolomites? If you are looking for a less crowded hike that is still BIG on views, this hike is for you. Step foot in the Dolomites and you will feel like you are standing in Austria or Switzerland. From Cortina dAmpezzo, it takes over 2 hours to drive to Alpe di Siusi and 2 hours to get to Val di Funes. Here, mountain peaks slash the sky and light up in fiery shades of crimson and violet (Enrosadira). Summer in the Dolomites will also be the most expensive because its the middle of peak tourist season. The Cinque Torri is one of the most recognizable rock formations in the Dolomites. Here is a list of the best things to do in the Dolomites. If you are short on time and cant spend several days in the Dolomites, here are a few tours that day trip into the Dolomites, so you can at least get a taste of what this place is like. All rights reserved Earth Trekkers. The view from Lagazuoi | Dolomites Itinerary. Bolzano is a small city on the western edge of the Dolomites. For those based on the European continent, train travel is the most convenient, stress-free and environmentally friendly way to get to the Dolomites. Its also a great time to escape your hometown after the drudge of the first couple of months of the year and just get a quiet, natural change of pace at an affordable price. The only times that we did not have cellular service, which was rare, was on a remote hiking trail. Each of the itineraries below is a one day itinerary. During the summer months, you cannot drive through the Pragser Tal Valley from 9:30 am to 4 pm. VENICE: Learn more about Venice in our article Best Things to Do in Venice. These two towns are located in Val Gardena, not far from the Puez-Odle Nature Park. This cable car station is located in Cortina dAmpezzo and from the mountain station you have jaw-dropping views of the Dolomites. We loved the wooden lounge chairs with views of the Odle/Geisler group. Most of the Mountain Huts (Rifugios) in the Dolomites are the property of the Italian Alpine Club (CAI), and are manned by The Club, offering food, lodging, and showers to hikers at about $50-80 a night. Absolutely. The bold, light-gray cliffs and spires flecked with snow, above green, flower-speckled-meadows and beneath a blue sky, offer a powerful, unique, and memorable mountain experience. It varies from year to year, but the hiking trails are typically closed by the end of October into very early November. Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Arm) is the highest alpine meadow in Europe. HIKES IN THE DOLOMITES: And if you want to go hiking, in our article Best Hikes in the Dolomites, we cover 15 epic trails in the Dolomites. Trying to decide where to stay in the Dolomites might seem like a daunting task but it doesnt have to be. Winter is perfect for skiing, snowshoeing, low-altitude hiking, and any other snow sports you can think of. This guide covers our recommended itinerary for spending one week in the Dolomites, structured so you can enjoy some excellent hiking with rest days in beautiful locations. Our first rifugio experience was on the Puez-Odle Altopiano hike, during our first visit to the Dolomites. This mountain range spans three regions of Italy (Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Sdtirol, and Friuli Venezia Giulia). Ride the cable car to Seceda for one of the most iconic views in the Dolomites. In this guide, we share with you the top experiences in the Dolomites, how to organize them day-by-day, and then how to put this all together to create your perfect Dolomites itinerary, whether you have 3 days, 5 days, or more. If skiing is your thing, visit the Dolomites from December through March, although some ski resorts will open sooner than this or close later than this. We will also share with you different ways to put this all together, to simplify your travel planning process. For many visitors, ourselves included, this region is the highlight of a trip to Italy. When it comes to things to do in the Dolomites, each month comes with its own benefits and challenges regarding activities, and a lot has to do with weather, access, and vibe. Best Guide to Visiting the Dolomites for the First Time 2023 That depends on what you want to do. Small steps South Norway Road Trip in 10 Days 2 Weeks Hiking in the Dolomites & Swiss Alps Which is Better: Amalfi or Sicily? We want to simplify that for you. During this time, you will have to use public transportation, walk, or bike to Lago di Braies. One of the best things to do in the Dolomites is go skiing or snowboarding. The 360 views are amazing and we ate grilled sandwiches that were superb. Its also a great time for those seeking the adventure of Via Ferratas. We rode the Freccia nel Cielo cable car in the afternoon because the weather was perfect. HELPFUL TIPS: We cover important things to know before you go and travel tips in our article How to Plan a Trip to the Dolomites. I was thinking is it possible to just visit cortina and do day trips to lake di . You can also walk the Santa Maddalena Panorama Trail, a 10 km/6 mile loop that has several stunning viewpoints of the area. Baita Ciampac Hut | How to plan a trip to the Dolomites. The main reason for doing this hike is to reach the viewpoint of the Cadini di Misurina but you also get a very unique view of Tre Cime di Lavaredo. You can also drive to the Falzarego Pass and ride the Lagazuoi cable car for another great view. We have visited the Dolomites twice, both times in July. When is the best time to visit? The Dolomites are one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Pick up a rental car in Milan, Verona, or Bolzano and drive to Val Gardena. There are plenty of trails that are rated easy and medium on the challenge scale, and everything is very well marked. If you will be staying in Val Gardena, take your pick from days 8, 9, or 10. Croda da Lago Circuit | How to plan a trip to the Dolomites. Not really because its a nature hub and nature stuff is free! You can rent a car for just this portion of your trip to Italy, doing so from the last major town you visit before entering the Dolomites. If you simply want to drive through the Dolomites and visit a few highlights, two to three days is all you need. Mountain huts are still closed, snow is still on the ground, and its cold. And once you get out of the city and up into the mountains, you'll see even fewer people. Thanks! PRO TIP: Hiking is NOT all difficult in the Dolomites. Ride the Cable Car to Cima Tofana: From the mountain station, you have 360 views of the Dolomites. Cable cars transport visitors to the highest peaks, so you dont have to be a big hiker to get to the panoramic viewpoints. In spring (June/early July), the lake's water level is higher and more photogenic, while the rest of the Dolomites are under a sea of wildflowers. How to Take Better Photos while Traveling. While in the town of Santa Maddalena, we also recommend visiting the viewpoint of the Church of St. John GPS coordinates: 463812.3N 114319.6E. The view from Marmolada | Dolomites Itinerary. For example, if you want to hike Tre Cime di Lavaredo and visit Lago di Braies, it is best to stay in Cortina dAmpezzo. Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Italy. The view from Cima Tofana (get here by riding the Freccia nel Cielo cable car from Cortina dAmpezzo). Take the guesswork out of where to stay in the Dolomites in our guide Best Places to Stay in the Dolomites. There's no best time to visit the Dolomites; the region delights all year. Get recommendations for the best places to stay in the eastern and western Dolomites for your budget, including Cortina dAmpezzo, Selva di Val Gardena, Ortisei, Alta Badia, and more. View from the Puez-Odle Altopiano hike | Dolomites Itinerary. The jagged peaks of the Dolomites span the provinces of Trentino and Alto Adige, jutting into neighbouring Veneto. For the full list, and more information about each activity, take a look at our article Best Things to Do in the Dolomites. For even better views, it is a very short hike to Tofana di Mezzo, one of the highest peaks in the Dolomites. The Dolomites are growing in popularity and hotels will sell out months in advance of the summer season. For a road trip, we highly recommend visiting between May and October, ideally avoiding August. You have the option to turn the hike into a loop and venture high into the mountains and leave the crowds behind. Our trip was in late July. I think its a bit far from a few of the more iconic hikes, but since nothing is quite open yet, the town itself and the views are the main attraction. list of things you can do in the Dolomites with little to no hiking. My favorite times to explore the Dolomites, in this order, are first during the Summer, then Fall, then Winter, and lastly if someone really convinces me the Spring. When is the best time to visit the Dolomites? We had just hiked for several hours and then there, sitting high in the mountains, was a rifugio. Along the way, you have awesome views of the Sella group, Sella pass, and the Puez-Odle Nature Park. The Dolomites: A 6 days itinerary to the best photo locations Here is a rough outline based on some of my road trips to the area during the peak summer season. Best Time to Visit the Dolomites for Hiking | Moon & Honey Travel . Day Three: Choose another day near your hotel. Italy's dramatic rocky rooftop, the Dolomites, offers some of the best mountain thrills in Europe. If you have used the public buses in the Dolomites and would like to share your experience for future readers, you can do so in the comment section below. Early fall, around September and early October, is the best time for outdoor photographers to come out and shoot. Best Time to Visit the Dolomites. Come for downhill or cross-country skiing and snowboarding . This is a great place to bike from restaurant to restaurant, trying new foods and dining with a view of the magnificent Sassolungo. But if you want to visit Val di Funes and hike the Puez-Odle Altopiano, stay in Val Gardena. Visit Val di Funes. This 9.2 km (5.7 miles) loop takes 2 to 3 hours, but youll want to add some additional time to have lunch at one of the rifugios. Day Two: If you will be staying in Cortina dAmpezzo, take your pick from days 2 through 6. After lunch, continue the drive south on SS51. Cinque Torri. This hike loops around the Croda da Lago mountain group. If you plan to spend more than three days in the Dolomites, we recommend that you stay in both Cortina dAmpezzo (or somewhere near here) and Val Gardena (Selva di Val Gardena or Ortisei). It also depends on which region you are in. The Dolomites Travel Guide + Map | Moon & Honey Travel In the winter months, the Dolomites are a fantastic place in Europe to go skiing. Alternatively, if you are staying in Selva di Val Gardena, it will take two hours to get the parking lot for Tre Cime di Lavaredo and an hour and 45 minutes to get to Lago di Braies. This walk is 3 km/2 miles, takes about an hour, and you can get the full details here. The hike is 13 km (8 miles), moderately strenuous, and takes 4.5 to 6 hours. Hiking, climbing, via Ferrata, road and mountain biking, the Dolomite Mountains have it all! Youll be happy you did, and it just might become one of your favorite spots in Italy. There are two ways to go, either taking SR48 over the Falzarego Pass (46 km, 1.25 hours) or SP638 over Passo Giau (43 km, 1.25 hours). A visit to Lago di Braies lasts about 4 hours. If you are traveling on a budget, get our money saving tips for the Cinque Terre. Or, rent a car and then road trip through the Dolomites. All you do is book it and enjoy it! And hiking trails are very well signed so I dont think it is necessary to purchase a Tabacco map (the Dolomites trail maps) unless you are going hut-to-hut or hiking on a lesser-known trail. It boasts the fewest number of visitors and with that, the lowest prices all year. I mean, can you imagine spending the Christmas holidays here?! On our first visit, we had three days in the Dolomites. Val Badia is the dividing line between these two areas. The Best Time to Visit the Dolomites - Tuscany Photography Tours Snow also still covers the upper mountains, providing the most picturesque of backdrops to Lago di . So far, we spent 12 very busy days in the Dolomites and still have more that we want to come back and do. in the world above the interwebs! The Dolomites are made up of many mountain groups, such as the Sella Group, the Odle/Geisler Group, and the Croda da Lago group, that rise up from the valleys. After this brief summary, we list multiple daily itineraries. You can click the check marks to hide or show layers. Marmolada. Spring is the low season in the Dolomites. Note: This post contains affiliate links. A big task, I will bravely attempt to break down what each of the 4 seasons brings to the table with regards to weather and things to do, ultimately outlining when the best time to visit the Dolomites really is, and why. Because of the history of this region and its Austrian and Italian influences, there are two names for almost everything, an Italian name and a German name. This afternoon, take your pick: Tre Cime di Lavaredo is one of the most popular hikes in the Dolomites. With its rocky mountain peaks, rolling green hills, small towns and chalets, the Dolomites are very photogenic and a wonderful place to explore. If you are prone to motion sickness, pack your Dramamine or anything else you use to minimize your symptoms. It encompasses some of the best known mountains in the Dolomites including the Odle/Geisler Group, Odle d'Eores/Aferer Geisler, Sass de Putia/Peiterkofel, Puez Group, and the Cir Group. You can visit the western Dolomites from Cortina dAmpezzo or the eastern Dolomites from Val Gardena (Selva di Val Gardena or Ortisei), but you will need to add on 2 hours of extra driving time to each itinerary. Where to Stay in the Dolomites 2023: Best Locations & Hotels Best months for hut-to-hut hiking: July, August, early-mid September. Once at Passo Pordoi, you have the option to ride another cable car, this time to Sass Pordoi. Best months for day hiking: mid-late June, early-mid July, September, October*. Remember, there are operating costs for these little huts, and so if theres not enough demand, they cant afford open too early in the summer. Our website uses cookies. By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies. While in Cortina dAmpezzo, take a stroll along Corso Italia, the pedestrian street that runs through the city center. However, as visitation to the Dolomites increases, you may want to make your reservations as early as January or February for the summer months. In October, once the snow begins to fall, the trails close. To avoid the crowds, visit in May, June or autumn, when it's cool and settled. You can spend the rest of the day relaxing at your hotel. Month to month, there are things to do, new hikes to explore, lakes to swim in, festivals to attend, Via Ferrata to challenge you, snowshoeing to inspire you, and the list goes on and on! If you have three or more days in the Dolomites, consider staying in two different places, one in the eastern Dolomites and one in the western Dolomites. Rifugio Averau and Rifugio Nuvolau. Bolzanois obviously great for Bolzano town, Strada del Vino, and Merano. We shortened this walk to visit the church and the main viewpoint. Rainfall usually falls as a thunderstorm, but it is possible to get a solid day of rain. And in the colder months, the Dolomites becomes a winter wonderland and a world-class skiing destination. Located in northeast Italy, the Dolomites are one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe. Best months for via ferrata climbing: September and potentially October*. Lago di Sorapis (Lake Sorapis) is one of the most popular hikes to do in the Dolomites. So, if you have the time in your schedule, you could easily spend 7 to 10 days hiking in the Dolomites. . DAY 2 - TRE CIME. Check Prices for Rental Cars to the DolomitesDISCOVER CARS. Then its a lot of twists and turns as you drive to Passo Pordoi, the highest paved pass in the Dolomites. If Venice is the starting point for your trip, you could pick up the rental car upon arrival at the airport to save yourself another trip to the airport to pick it up. Our Dolomites itinerary covers everything from the insta-perfect lakes to the vertiginous rocky peaks, incredible . Geisler Alm/Rifugio delle Odle. You can rent a car for just this portion of your trip to Italy, doing so from the last major town you visit before entering the Dolomites. From here, if you still have energy, walk the downhill trail back to the Falzarego Pass (4 km/2.5 miles). In our Dolomites Itinerary Travel Planning Guide, we share with you the top experiences in the Dolomites, how to organize them day-by-day, and then how to put them all together to create your perfect Dolomites itinerary, whether you have 3 days, 5 days, or more. There are no airports and very few train stations in the Dolomites. Note: This post contains affiliate links. Location: Cortina d'Ampezzo. If you are planning a trip to the Dolomites to go hiking, June through September is the best time to visit the Dolomites. For recommendations on how to put all of this together, below we list sample multi-day itineraries, putting together the daily itineraries listed above. These drives over the mountain passes are beautiful, but they can also be stressful and nauseating. Its a great time to go hiking, paragliding, mountain biking, climbing, waterfall exploring, hut-to-hut adventuring, and road-tripping. If you hike the Adolf Munkel Weg and walk the shortened trail to the Santa Maddalena viewpoint, the visit to Val di Funes will take most of the day. This drive connects these two areas. The depends entirely on you! From Cortina dAmpezzo, head west towards Marmolada. The beautiful landscapes, the charming towns, and the long list of incredible hiking trails create a magical destination.
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