The Dolomites: Your Guide To Visiting Val Gardena Valley in Northeastern Italy

Italy, , 80 Comments

I often think of words to describe what hiking and climbing adventures mean to me, but all I know they are so much more than standing on the summit or reaching the finish line.

For me, the true benefits of exploring the hills and mountains go much deeper than an appreciation for the environment and improved fitness (although these are also both valuable); I believe that the increased self-confidence, resilience and self-reliance that develops in anyone taking on the hills and mountains will have a hugely positive impact on their development.

Alfred  Wainwright, known for his famous Pictorial Guides to the Lakeland Fells couldn’t have said it better:

“I was to find spiritual and physical satisfaction in climbing mountains – and a tranquil mind upon reaching their summits, as though I had escaped from the disappointments and unkindness of life and emerged above them into a new world, a better world.”

Around ten years ago,  long before the coronavirus pandemic descended across Italy, we set off on a series of hikes around a monumental mountain range in northeastern Italy, the Dolomites, taking in some of the world’s most majestic scenery: colossal vertical limestone walls and gloriously green valleys.

Over seven days, we completed five carefully chosen hiking trails which took us to amazing scenic spots, friendly mountain huts, and unique natural experiences. We started with a hike around the landmark of Val Gardena – the Sassolungo Group and finished with a six-hour walk from Resciesa to Seceda.

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Descending from Toni Demetz Hut located at 2685 m.

The Dolomites: Your guide to visiting beautiful Val Gardena Valley 

Getting up before sunrise amid the thundering Dolomites and witnessing its distinctive white rock respond to the first morning light by changing colours from pink to orange and purple, was a real dream come true moment for us.

Did you know there’s even a specific word that describes this unique phenomenon in the native Ladin language – ‘enrosadira’ meaning becoming pink?

If you are planning on travelling to the Val Gardena valley in the Dolomites, we created a guide and added a bunch of useful tips you can use to plan your journey.

Why you should visit the Dolomites also called “Monti Pallidi” in Italian.

As if anyone needs actual convincing to visit the Dolomites! Stretching across the northern part of Italy, the Dolomites are pure magic for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, with more than 18 peaks hitting above 3000 metres.

Spending time in a place surrounded by asymmetrical limestone spires, broad valleys, mountain lakes and beautiful pastures will allow you to backpedal and step away from your active life.

After a  week in the mountains, we emerged more relaxed and more enriched with a definite sense of the world around us.

It’s not hard to grasp why this place attracts thousands of hikers, mountain climbers and mountain bikers from all around the world.

A remarkable display of beautiful Alpine flowers, best viewed from mid-June, trills, and the challenge of long-distance hiking on top of alluring scenery and an infinite network of fantastic trails can effortlessly ignite the desire to make the most of our time on Planet Earth.

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Technically tricky yet so rewarding to explore; incredibly stunning Dolomites

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Where is Val Gardena

Val Gardena is a 25 km long tributary valley located in South Tyrol and is often described as one of the best hiking and skiing destinations.

It starts from Ponte Gardena and ends at the Sella Mountain Range passing through the saddles of Gardena and Passo Sella.  Here you can find a beautiful mix of architecture and views, including Tyrolean-style chalets and medieval churches.

The traditional woodcarving arts and crafts that were created in Val Gardena at the beginning of the 17th century helped to make the holiday region famous far beyond the borders of the country.

 

How to get to Val Gardena, Italy

Val Gardena also known as Grödena is one of the most beautiful valleys in the Dolomites which extends from Ponte Gardena to the Gardena Pass, the Sella Pass and the mountain massif of the same name.

Getting to the Italian Dolomites usually requires a multi-leg journey, as there are no airports in the Dolomites.

We found that getting to Val Gardena is pretty straightforward. The easiest way to reach it is by car via the Brenner motorway (A22).

Check car rental rates here.

We flew from Dublin to Bergamo, rented a car at the airport and drove 275 kilometres to Santa Cristina village located in Val Gardena. If you are travelling from the North, then follow the Innsbruck – Brennero – Chiusa route.

*Insider Tip: Renting a car is the best way to get around the Dolomites. It is best to book this online before you arrive there.

Distance from Italian Airports to Val Gardena:

  • Milan to Val Gardena – 3h 50min
  • Bergamo to Val Gardena – 3h 10min
  • Verona to Val Gardena – 2h 10min
  • Treviso to Val Gardena – 3h 10min
  • Venice to Val Gardena – 3h 15min

Val Gardena can also be reached comfortably and affordably by bus. Whether you want to plan your entire journey by bus or are only looking for transport to Val Gardena from an airport or train station, there are many options available.

Three Italian cities well connected to The Dolomites are Venice, Verona and Milan. Cortina Express bus service (direct one) operates from Venice Marco Polo airport and Venice Mestre train station, while ATVO airport service provides Venice – Mestre railway station – Venice Marco Polo Airport – Treviso – Cortina route.

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A perfect place for lunch high up in the mountains!

Where to stay in Val Gardena

Figuring out where to stay in the Dolomites is probably the biggest challenge in planning a trip to Val Gardena. Depending on the length of your trip, we advise choosing 2-4 bases for your Dolomites trip and spending 2-4 nights in each base.

 Val Gardena is one of the best places to stay in the Dolomites for skiing in winter and hiking in summer and autumn. 

There are three villages in Val Gardena: Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva Val Gardena. The largest mountain village is Ortisei or Urtijëi located at an altitude of 1236 meters and it has the highest concentration of hotels and restaurants. It is a perfect destination if you’re travelling without a car.

Selva Val Gardena is the highest village in the valley and boasts the most majestic mountain views. It is the closest town to Passo Sella and Passo Gardena.

Santa Christina is less touristy with easy access to lesser-known destinations within Puez-Odle Nature Park.

Regardless of where you stay, you can easily access other villages and destinations within the valley.

Looking for accommodation to stay in Val Gardena I came across a budget-friendly Smart Hotel Saslong located in the smallest of three villages – Santa Christina. The rooms offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Their en-suites were thoughtfully decorated with local wood and had minimalist décor.

If we had to make this hiking trip again, and I hope one day we will return to the famous Italian peaks, we would spend a few nights in mountain huts, also known as rifugios, set high up in the Dolomites to get even closer to nature and mountains. They offer meals and sleeping facilities with endless views of the peaks all around you. Can you imagine waking up to such a panorama while the rest of the world still sleeps?

*Good to know – When you stay in any hotel, guesthouse, or farm stay in Val Gardena, you’re given a free public transit card.

The Dolomites – Hikers paradise and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best time to go to Val Gardena

Your decision on when to travel should depend on the kinds of experiences you want to have. If you’re into skiing, winter is ideal. If it’s hiking you’re after, summer and early fall are your best bet.

The summer hiking season runs roughly from mid/late June until mid/late September when mountain huts are open and high-altitude trails are mostly clear of snow.

The winter skiing season runs from mid-December until early April. 

For up-to-date weather information, check out Val Gardena webcams

  • Autumn | Hiking trails in the Dolomites tend to stay open until late October when snow arrives. There are fewer tourists plus you get to see an explosion of colour when Larch trees change from bright red to amber and light yellow.
  • Winter | Winter offers a great variety of outdoor activities from snowboarding, and ice skating to snowshoeing and skiing. Surrounded by snow-capped summits and beautiful winter scenery, you’ll love this part of Italy even more. In Val Gardena, ski lifts can take you all the way to Dolomiti Superski with 12 skiing areas and 1,200km of slopes.
  • Summer | Mid-June is the start of the Dolomites hiking season. Keep in mind that hiking trail accessibility depends on the length of the winter and the elevation of the trail.

We visited in mid-June, and had great weather, except for one foggy and overcast day, Some of the high-altitude trails were still closed, and we had to turn back on one of the walks as the large sheet of ice made it impossible to descend, yet we still had a memorable time.

July is high season in the Dolomites which means that everything is open and operating: hotels, restaurants, huts, cable cars etc.

  • Spring | Winter lasts a bit longer in this northern part of Italy than elsewhere, and it’s not uncommon for snow to stick around until April. Temperatures remain quite cool in April and May and there’s also more rain in these months.

Late spring (May) and early summer (June) are great months to visit if you are seeking cool weather that’s comfortable for outdoor activities, and a few other tourists. 

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Odle Mountains in Puez-Odle Natural Park.

Hiking in Val Gardena Valley

When it comes to walking trails in Val Gardena, as you can guess, the choice here is endless.

Before the trip, we purchased and read A Cicerone guide written by Gillian Price ”Walking in The Dolomites” and found it to be beneficial in planning our trip. but Tourist Offices in the Dolomites provide maps and loads of other useful information about hiking and trails.

*Our Crossings Tip – Confirm with the local tourist office if the trails you plan on hiking are feasible and safe before setting off.

What makes Val Gardena a top destination for a hiking holiday in the Dolomites is that there are several chairlifts and cable cars that connect the valley to various summits and plateaus in the Val Gardena Dolomites – Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm, the Sassolungo/Langkofel Group, the Resciesa/Rasciesa/Raschötz Plateau and Puez-Odle/Geisler Nature Park making hiking here even more accessible. 

An added bonus of staying and hiking in Val Gardena is the free transit system for overnight guests.

Our first hike started in S. Cristina, where Col Raiser’s cable car brought us to expansive trails in a matter of minutes. The moment we jumped out of the cable car, crisp mountain air and layers of dark green colours cheerfully awaited us. Bright yellow buttercups scattered alpine pastures as we approached Juac-Hütte mountain hut. The trail from here toward razor-sharp peaks was very steep, exposed and demanded a lot of effort.

Best Hiking Trails in Val Gardena:

Sassolungo Loop Trail – Moderate day hike starting at Sella Pass

Rifugio Stevia and Col dala Pieres – Difficult circuit hike starting in Selva di Val Gardena. 

Lake Pisciadù and Pisciadù Peak Hike– Difficult loop, or point-to-point hike starting at Gardena Pass

Resciesa to Rifugio Brogles and Seceda Ridgeline – Moderate circuit, or point-to-point hike starting in Ortisei

Alpe di Siusi to Monte Pana – Easy hike starting at the Ortisei-Alpe di Siusi Ropeway mountain station and ending in Santa Cristina

Dolomites in the summer.

Places to visit in Val Gardena

In addition to many mountain peaks and trails, there are plenty of other things to see and do in the valley. You can go cycling, paragliding, via ferrata climbing, culinary hiking, hut-to-hut hiking and so much more.

If you are up for the roads and you have decent weather, I highly recommend going for a drive around one of its Mountain Passes.

Val Gardena mountain passes are a destination unto themselves and not just a pass-through kind of place, so make sure you spend a bit of time here and really soak up all that Dolomiti beauty!

  • Sella Pass | Passo Sella is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.246m above sea level. Via many hairpin bends, the pass links the Val Gherdëina in South Tyrol and Canazei in the Fascia Valley in Trentino. It is one of the most iconic roads of the Dolomites
  • Gardena Pass | Located at an elevation of 2136m (7,008ft). Passo Gardena is another mountain pass and can be found in the Dolomites of Alto Adige, Italy. It makes for a stunning drive meaning that it’s quite popular with drivers, bikers and cyclists.  The pass connects the Val Gardena with the Val Badia — a side valley of the Val Pusteria and is a must when exploring the Val garden.

The Church of San Giacomo | located in a small clearing surrounded by forest, just above the hamlet of San Giacomo, east of Ortisei is the oldest church in Val Gardena. It is a Gardena valley symbol and can be well reached from Ortisei and Santa Cristina.

The well-maintained church displays interesting and colourful paintings and is a must if visiting Val Gardena.

Museum of Val Gardena | stop by the museum to admire sacred wooden sculptures as well as numerous small sculptures such as nativity scenes and animal representations.

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Dolomites, Italy.

Tips, hints, and things to do in Val Gardena

Because this is a German-, Ladin-, and Italian-speaking region, each town, nature park, mountain hut, etc… has three names. So, Ortisei is also called St. Ulrich and Urtijëi. Selva di Val Gardena is also called Wolkenstein and Sëlva. 

  • If renting a car, make sure it’s as small as possible. Narrow roads, hairpin bends and steep drops make driving in the mountains challenging. Always book before your trip and once on the way, mind the speed limit.
  • In Val Gardena, get a Val Gardena card, offering unlimited use of all lifts and gondolas open in summer (115,00 € for six consecutive days and 85,00 € for three consecutive days.
  • Stay hydrated, and bring extra food and a light jacket. The weather in the Dolomites mountains is very irregular and can change quickly, even in the summer.
  • Experience culture and tradition by visiting nearby villages and churches (St Johann Church also known as San Giovanni, is a must!)
  • Enjoy local cuisines like spinach and ricotta-filled ravioli called Schlutzkrapfen, cheese and, of course, apple strudel, all served with a view.
  • Don’t take any risks, check the weather forecast before hiking and always carry your identification
Impressive Sassolungo mountain range.

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Now, over to you!

Have you been to the Dolomites? What is your favourite hike in the area? Let us know in the comments!

Let us know if you are plotting a visit to the Dolomites and have travel-related questions!

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80 thoughts on “The Dolomites: Your Guide To Visiting Val Gardena Valley in Northeastern Italy”

    1. Yes, you are right, Sheree! Taking on the jagged mountain climbs of the Dolomites and enjoying awe-inspiring views while exploring on two wheels would be an experience to remember. And if there’s one thing a Dolomiti ride will never, ever be – it’s boring. The northeastern Italian mountains are characterised by an all-or-nothing attitude – either presenting an upward struggle or a long, freewheel-worthy downward slope. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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      1. Thanks for sharing your post. It’s amazing how much you can actually see and do in Italy if you have a week or two. Did you write a post about your ride on Bernina Express Scenic Train Route?

        I am glad your husband had a chance to go for a ride. I know they have an event called The Maratona dles Dolomites, an annual single-day road bicycle sportive covering 7 mountain passes, which occurs in the first week of July. The roads are closed to cars and all the locals get behind you and cheer you on from the side of the road. How amazing is that?

        While some people still dream about a future in which everyone travels in driverless flying cars, there are those who dream about car-free spaces to exercise their right to the city and to co-create a new urban vision. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Hello, Jo 🙂 The Italian Dolomites are home to some of the most arresting mountains, valleys, and lakes in the European Alps. At every turn, you’ll be bewitched by the craggy peaks, velvet-like meadows, and thrilling mountain passes that define this sub-range of the Southern Limestone Alps.

      We were so impressed by the beauty of it that made a promise to return, but somehow ten years have gone by in a blink and we haven’t done it yet. Sometimes just life and work get in the way and there’s not much you can do about it. Hopefully soon. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thank you, Pam 🙂 Visit the Dolomites and your days will be filled with unforgettable “am I dreaming?” moments. From the spectacular scenery and hiking trails to the charming mountainside huts and excellent hotels, the Dolomites will exceed your expectations (in every possible way). Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  4. Wow, the views you guys had on these hikes are amazing! I also think the option to sleep in one of the refugios must be a great experience. I believe The Dolomites must be a popular tourist destination because it is incredibly beautiful! Great photos Aiva!

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    1. Thanks so much, Corna 🙂 The Dolomites are a naturally very beautiful area. Many of the gentler slopes are south facing and very sunny in the summer months. So the area is very popular amongst climbers and walkers. In addition, the high mineral content of the rocks gives the mountains a pinkish hue, especially at dawn and dusk. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  5. I’d never heard of the Dolomites until maybe 10 years ago when an old college chum and his wife visited to hike the mountain paths. How breathtaking! Thank for sharing all of the delicious pics and helpful tips. Hoping to make it there one day myself.

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    1. Thanks so much 🙂 The Dolomites are one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Europe and are part of the Italian Alps. But they look nothing like their neighbours in Switzerland or Austria. The Dolomites have a rugged look but their true magic comes to life every day during sunrise and sunset. I hope you get to explore the Dolomites one day 🙂 Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much 🙂 The Dolomites is an amazing mountain range and it has so many breathtaking places that it is hard to choose which places you should include in your planning when your time is limited. We settled on exploring Val Gardena and were happy with everything we had a chance to see and do along the way. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Marion, as I was going through the photos and meandered down memory lane, I had an irresistible urge to return. I just have to wait until Lily is a wee bit bigger.

      From the most impressive mountain faces to the most emerald blue lakes you’ve ever seen, the dolomites have it all. Not only the highlights but even the landscape you drive through from one place to another is just breathtaking. This region is proof that it’s not about the destination but about the journey. Thanks for stopping by and I hope you get to explore the valley one day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  8. The Dolomites looks amazing, Aiva! I’ve seen photos before and always wanted to go, but I’ve never seriously looked into planning a trip. Thank you for the photos and insights and information. I absolutely look forward to hiking in these mountains someday!

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    1. Thank you, Diana. With its rugged mountain lodges and world-class ski slopes, Italy’s Alps may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about a European summer getaway, but it should be—especially when talking about the Dolomites.

      We enjoyed hiking and biking in the spectacular mountains, sampling excellent regional food and wine, learning about the World War I history of the area, exploring mountain villages, and visiting interesting museums. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  9. Fabulous post Aiva about a beautiful area. We have never been here, but the mountain scenery and hiking options seem to be sublime. The best part is the variety of hikes and the fact that on many of them, you can have a meal and drink while taking in the view. Thanks for sharing. Have a great week. Allan

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    1. Thanks so much, Allan 🙂 In a country that is renowned for its impressive cities, fascinating historical sites and gorgeous coastline, the Dolomites in the north of Italy still manage to stand out for all that they have to offer. The mountains are mesmerizing to hike through as sweeping valleys and craggy peaks give way to flower-filled alpine meadows. The Dolomites really need to be seen to be believed and hiking them truly is an unforgettable experience. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much 🙂 They may not be the highest, but they are certainly the most beautiful mountains in Europe if not the world. And with paths that skirt glacial lakes and alpine fields coloured by buttercups and edelweiss, mountain devotees and nature lovers will be in for a treat. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  11. I have not been to the Dolomites but they look beautiful, Aiva. Your posts are always so readable and helpful to the traveler. Enrosadira is both a beautiful word and concept. Years ago, we had a student nurse interning at our mental health project. She was Italian but from a German speaking area – I was fascinated by the melange of languages and ethnicities from the Alpine regions. K x

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    1. Thanks so much, Kerry. I find that the term Enrosadira, given to the phenomenon by which most of the peaks in the Dolomites, at dawn and dusk, take on a pink/reddish colour, which gradually turns into violet is truly beautiful, too.

      As you know, I grew up in a country where the highest peak is 300m so you can only imagine how I felt upon seeing and exploring the Dolomites; it was a real eye-opener for me. As for people from the Dolomites – they are as unique as the territory in which they reside. Because there are three different cultures located throughout the region it is a cultural hopscotch. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  12. Beautiful pictures Aiva of this stunning part of Italy. I love the quote about emerging into a new and better world. That’s how I feel when we’re in the mountains. Thanks for this great guide. Maggie

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    1. Thanks so much, Maggie 🙂 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. One of the most noteworthy activities of the Dolomite people is the unique and creative handicrafts that they produce. It used to be something passed from generation to generation, but nowadays it is taught primarily in specialized schools, such as the Art High School in Cortina. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much. It is certainly a place unlike any other. I loved its breathtaking views and peaceful pastures as well as the fact that the Dolomites are not just about trails and sightseeing, but are rich with culture. Thanks for stopping by. I am glad that my post brought back wonderful memories from your trip. Aiva 🙂 xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Ali 🙂 Aside from scenic trails, the Dolomites also offer a wide array of culinary masterpieces to please even the most distinguished appetite. The food prepared in this region is simple yet delicious, and quite hearty so I was glad I brought my appetite – I savoured some of the most savoury wines and delicious meals on earth. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much 🙂 I loved its incredible mountain scenery and the fact that Dolomiti shares some of the alpine styles of neighbouring regions but boasts a culture — and even a language — all of its own. I’d like to go back once more, this time in winter to
      walk in the snow-covered mountains of the Dolomites. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  16. This is such a wonderful and detailed travel guide for the Dolomites! I am impressed at how many activities you can do in this location in addition to the beautiful hiking spots. This would definitely be a very cool spot to paraglide and take in views from the sky!

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    1. Thanks so much 🙂 Yes, paragliding would be an amazing experience, too as the Dolomites have something fascinating, and magical – rugged rocks, deep gorges and great views that can only be found here when you glide along the vertical walls, especially at sunset. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Tanja, it really is. You will never tire of the surroundings or the mountains here. There are multiple famous passes in the area to explore, and also great terrain to enjoy some mountain biking. I love exploring cities too as this way I get to visit many art galleries and museums 🙂 Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much 🙂 I’m not exaggerating when I say, we were floored at the beauty of the Dolomites and were wondering why it has taken us so long to get here. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Regional languages like the Ladin language of the Dolomites are particularly interesting from a linguistic point of view, aren’t they? Back home at Latvian University, I studied philology for a year and I loved studying written records, the establishment of their authenticity and their original form, and the determination of their meaning. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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        1. I was supposed to study Latvian and Lithuanian historical linguistics for 4 years but took a gap year, went to Ireland for a temporary work position, fell in love and the rest, as they say, is history.

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  20. The Dolomites look like an amazing place to hike. I had no idea this place even existed in Italy! We’ll have to add this to our list for the next time we’re in the area as this looks like something we would enjoy. Your pictures are stunning.

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    1. Thanks so much, Linda 🙂 However you imagine your perfect walking adventure, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the ideal place to create a truly memorable holiday. The Italian Dolomites offer something for everyone: majestic peaks, enchanting alpine valleys, fields brimming with wildflowers, a rich history and robust local culture, and panoramic views. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. The breathtaking region around the Dolomites of Italy is honestly one of the most beautiful places on earth. This picturesque countryside is full of rugged mountains, scenic hikes, beautiful lakes with brilliant turquoise waters, and charming, tiny villages straight out of a fairytale. You would love it 🙂 Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much 🙂 the range of scenery in the Dolomites is unlike anything I’ve seen before. There’s one place we didn’t get to explore called Alpe Di Suisi, the largest alpine meadow in Europe, where the green rolling hills are sprinkled with wooden cabins. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  23. The scenery is simply stunning and a great detailed guide. I checked out the webcam site and it looks like a few places are stormy and snowy today which surprised me. I doubt one would want to come here in peak tourist season but man it looks so amazing! Thanks for sharing. Bernie

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    1. From huge, rugged mountains, jagged peaks, and alpine hills to impressive blue lakes, picturesque churches, and dark, starry skies, The Dolomites in northern Italy are one of those breathtaking destinations you must visit at least once, especially in late October when the golden autumn colours are in all their fall glory!

      I love checking out web cameras in different parts of the world (be it in the Dolomites or Grouse Mountain webcams)- this way I get to transport myself to wherever I please. Thanks for stopping by and I hope you are feeling much better today 🙂 Aiva xx

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  24. This is a great post Aiva. I had not had a chance to read it until now. Fascinating place, wonderful information, really, you have provided all one needs to travel and fully enjoy these incredible destinations. Cheers and all the best.

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    1. Hi Francisco and thanks so much 🙂 The Dolomites is a unique region in northern Italy that borders Austria. Taking the gondola up to see the edges of these peaks, with sheer drops to the left and meadows to the right is one of the most drastic sceneries I’ve ever seen. I’ve bookmarked images from the Dolomites for years now and I have to say, the photos do not do it justice. It’s hard to describe just how otherworldly this outdoor haven is in person. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Anita 🙂 To anyone who is looking for a hiking vacation that’s also packed with cultural experiences, not to mention plenty of delicious pasta, wine, and grappa then an Italian Dolomites hiking trip might be the perfect thing. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much 🙂 the turquoise and emerald lakes and pale peaks do not scream typical Italy if your impression of Italy is ancient ruins or coastal towns. However, even a few days in the Dolomites can take your breath away and show you Italy’s diverse beauty. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  28. I’ve never been to the Dolomites but it’s been on my list for so long, so this post definitely feeds my wanderlust! I hope I’lle get to go soon, and when I do I’d love to go on at least two or three hikes that you’ve mentioned here! I also didn’t know the word “enrosadira”, this is such a nice word to have. Thanks for sharing!

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    1. Hi, Juliette 🙂 The soaring spires of rock, alpine meadows and turquoise lakes of the Dolomites are simply stunning, but the true magnetism of this UNESCO world heritage site is the hiking and outdoor opportunities. I hope you get to explore the stunning mountains one day, it’s an experience unlike any other. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  29. We’ve never done the Dolomites which you describe so enticingly above. The closest trip to there for us it seems might center around a Venice and other Northern Italy vacation. I ‘ll look into some tours on Gate One that cover the area. Thank you.

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    1. The Italian Dolomites are one of the most spectacular mountain regions in Europe and you may even argue the world. And hiking is the best way to enjoy nature’s breathtaking views and wonders and the UNESCO World Heritage Site. We had a fantastic time exploring its many trails and can highly recommend Val Gardena Valley to anyone wishing to explore this mountain range. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. From gentle trails to demanding multi-day treks, it’s easy to see why the Dolomites in Italy are a popular choice for hikers. We went in mid-June and there was still quite a bit of snow, rain-filled potholes and frozen ponds left over from the winter season. Nevertheless, we had a memorable time. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Lyssy. I hope you get to explore the Dolomites on foot one day. From challenging ascents to gently undulating valley trails and everything in between, there’s a hike for everyone here. The landscape is an absolute wonder with soaring peaks and deep valleys stretching off in every direction. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Hi, Brian 🙂 When it comes to the Dolomites, there are plenty of short, easy half-day hikes you can enjoy without needing to gain elevation or carrying a heavy backpack. On our rest days, we took a ski-lift up to one of the mountain huts for a lunch and hang around without any hiking – just taking in the scenery and relaxing among nature’s beauty. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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