Our recent road trip in South Tyrol took us to the Dolomites mountain range in the very north of Italy. I can honestly say it was one of my favourite trips to date, revealing a range of uniquely beautiful landscapes unlike anything I’d seen before.
Labelled as a UNESCO world heritage site, the Dolomites are a superb destination for hiking, but also for discovering hidden picturesque towns, towering peaks, lush alpine meadows and glistening lakes.
If you’re planning a trip to the Dolomites, you won’t be short on spectacular sites for your itinerary. Here are 9 places you simply can’t miss!
1. Seceda
Towering at 2500m, one of the most dramatic and iconic views in the Dolomites is the incredible Seceda ridgeline. To reach it, hop on the gondola from Ortisei-Furnes gondola station in Ortisei. Standing from the epic viewpoint at the summit, this remarkable mountainside has sheer drops on one side, and lush rolling meadows sloping down to the right.
2. Alpe Di Siusi
Home to the iconic views of undulating meadows dotted with cute cabins, Alpe Di Siusi is the largest alpine meadow in Europe and breathtakingly beautiful. Discover the hiking trails, take photos and soak in the views. Sunrise here is magical.
3. Tre Cime di Lavaredo
The jagged limestone peaks of Tre Cime di Lavaredo loom over a dry and rugged landscape. Offering one of the Dolomites most iconic and beautiful day hikes, the whole park is scattered with picturesque mountain refuges for an overnight stay in the mountains.
4. Lago di Scorapis
This hidden, milky blue lake is one of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen. The only way to reach the shimmering turquoise waters of Lago di Scorapis is to hike. It’s a challenging walk, but worth it to see this secluded hidden gem.
5. Lago di Carezza
Another unmissable lake, its emerald toned waters are mesmerising. It’s a wonderful place to come for a stroll, enjoy the fresh mountain air and tranquil surroundings.
6. Santa Maddalena
This village, located in the Funes valley, feels like a fairytale. The picturesque medieval church against the spectacular mountain backdrop is the perfect place to come for golden hour and watch the light melt over the valley.
7. St Johann in Ranui church
A strong contender for the most scenic church in the Dolomites. Nestled into lush green pastures amongst the local cattle, with mountains looming high above, this tiny white washed church draws visitors from across the region. Come for an hour or so and savour the peaceful surroundings.
8. Lago di Braies
Arguably one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes, the glistening Lago di Braies reflects colours in all shades from green to blue. Many flock here to photograph the incredible sunrise light over the water. The largest natural lake in the Dolomites, in the summer it mirrors the peaks in the distance. In winter, find it covered with ice and snow.
9. Gardena Pass
There’s no better place for a scenic drive and mastering South Tyrol’s notorious hairpin bends than driving the Gardena Pass. This high mountain pass offers dramatic scenery and views of the Sassolungo peaks.
Where to stay in the Dolomites
We chose to split our time between two towns, with 3 nights in Cortina d’Ampezzo and 4 nights in Ortisei/Urtijëi (with one final night in Verona before flying home).
From Cortina d’Ampezzo and Ortisei, most sites and hikes were only 45 minutes – 1 hour away, so these two towns served us well as bases to come home to each night.
In Cortina d’Ampezzo, we booked into an Airbnb for 3 nights that was close to the centre of town. You can browse other accommodation options below:
Booking.comIn Ortisei, we stayed in Garni August for 4 nights, a pristine and incredibly charming guest house nestled on the slopes, a short walk away from the main shops and restaurants. Peruse all other Ortisei hotel options below:
Booking.comPlanning a trip to the Dolomites? Check out this 7-Day Ultimate Road Trip Guide to the Dolomites.
Useful travel tips for a trip to the Dolomites
For hotels, I often find great deals on Booking.com, with no nasty hidden booking fees.
Check out Skyscanner for finding the best flight deals.
For car rentals, I recommend booking with Rentalcars.com. I’ve always found them to have great deals on car rentals.
If you’re planning a trip to the Dolomites, or anywhere in the world, be sure to have a look my top travel planning resources, including tips on how to save money travelling and my favourite travel planning tools.
Don’t leave home without travel insurance! I recommend World Nomads who offer reliable, comprehensive cover, including medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of activities at affordable rates. You can buy World Nomads insurance even when you’ve left home, which is rare for travel insurance companies.
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Amazing photos. I have been to the region but these photos makes me want to go back to the area. Thank you
Author
Thank you!