Dolomites: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
The majestic Dolomites are an Italian mountain range in the Southern Alps. The magnificent mountain world with gigantic glaciers, idyllic valleys, and enchanting mountain lakes attracts numerous hikers, nature lovers, and outdoor sports enthusiasts. In winter, the many excellent ski resorts draw numerous enthusiastic winter sports fans. Additionally, there are some great sights and culinary highlights.
Table of contents
Dolomites - The most beautiful cities
Cortina D’Ampezzo
As a venue for Alpine Ski World Championships and Olympic Winter Games, Cortina D’Ampezzo is one of the most popular regions for winter sports enthusiasts. Between November and Easter, you can look forward to perfect conditions for skiing and snowboarding, as well as sledding and cross-country skiing in the Dolomites. Here, hundreds of kilometers of slopes await you in every level of difficulty. The town center delights with various cultural and architectural highlights, such as the parish church and the Chiesa di San Nicolo, which was built as early as 1226. Around the community, you will find a variety of hiking trails. Some of the gondola lifts are also in operation during the warm season.
Meran
Surrounded by the Ötztal and Sarntal Alps, Merano is one of the most charming travel destinations in Northern Italy. The second-largest city in South Tyrol captivates with exciting exhibition venues like the city history Palais Mamming Museum, a colorful event calendar, and the award-winning gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle, which once even hosted Austrian Empress Sisi. For a shopping spree in a historic setting, the medieval arcades in Merano's old town are ideal. Strollers are also drawn to the Passer Promenade, which leads along the river to the impressive Art Nouveau spa house of the city. Diverse via ferratas, hiking routes, irrigation channels, and winter sports opportunities around attract nature lovers. For ultimate relaxation, the modern Merano Thermal Baths provide.
Bozen
Located in a basin at the confluence of the Eisack, Etsch, and Talfer rivers, Bolzano is not only the largest city in South Tyrol. With its picturesque old town, the famous Walther Square, magnificent buildings like Maretsch Castle, and exciting museums, it is also a place for explorers. A must-see is the glacier mummy Ötzi in the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology. The landmark of the northern Italian metropolis is the Laubengasse with its medieval arcades. Small craft shops, chic fashion boutiques, and delicatessens invite you to stroll here. Directly connected, the fruit market tempts with freshly harvested delicacies from South Tyrol. In the wine shops of the traditional wine city, you can discover true Bolzano specialties with the ruby-red Lagrein and St. Magdalener.
Sëlva
In summer, you can look forward to a pleasantly warm climate with temperatures over 21°C in Sëlva. This invites you to go hiking and cycling. Mountain bike tours are among the most popular activities during a holiday with a vacation home in Wolkenstein. In winter, you will find the best conditions for skiing. Around Wolkenstein, the impressive rock formations of the Dolomites are worth seeing. Right outside your door, you can see the Puez group and elevations almost 3,000 meters high, such as Piz Duleda and Stevia. Another popular excursion destination is the Grödner Joch, which can be excellently traversed by mountain bike.
St. Magdalena
The impressive mountain world is rich in scenic highlights, including the Seceda peak, which you can reach by cable car. The entire region is considered a hiking paradise. Mountaineers and climbers will also find numerous routes here. Cultural highlights include the Church of St. Johann in Ranui and the Chiese di Santa Maddelena. From mid-November until Easter, the numerous ski resorts open their operations. From the center of St. Magdalena, you can quickly reach the nearest lifts with the ski buses. The large winter sports areas offer a sufficient variety of slopes in all difficulty levels, so beginners and advanced skiers get their money's worth.
Val di Funes
The mostly natural valley is located at an altitude of over 500 m. The surrounding peaks of the Alps rise up to 3,000 m into the sky. On hikes and excursions, tours to the Flitzer waterfall are recommended. With some cable cars, you can also comfortably reach the highest mountains. The Val di Funes not only impresses with its scenic highlights but also with the typical South Tyrolean architecture of the many old farmhouses. The churches of St. Magdalena and St. Peter are considered landmarks. The latter impresses with its 65 m high bell tower from the year 1801 and its rich Baroque furnishings.
Ortisei
Set off from Ortisei for active hikes. Among the most outstanding spots in the surrounding mountain peaks is the Mastlè Santa Cristina, a UNESCO World Heritage terrace with a particularly spectacular panoramic view over the Dolomites. Meanwhile, the whole family can enjoy action-packed zip lines and treetop paths in the Emozion Col de Flam forest adventure park. In winter, sporty guests are drawn to the approximately 41-kilometer-long ski slopes in the Dolomites Val Gardena / Gröden - St. Ulrich ski area. In addition to easy slopes, the area is characterized by predominantly intermediate slopes. Ortisei's winter world also enchants you on long winter hikes and family tobogganing fun.
Castelrotto
Sun-drenched, Castelrotto with its neat houses and charming shops is nestled in the Dolomites. The limestone walls of the mountain range offer you extremely interesting rock formations. Explore streams, gorges, and forests on well-secured alpine trails. On the Kofel, there is the ruin of a castle that you can visit with the family. The larch meadows and the Königswarte are also mystical places that invite you to go hiking. Additionally, traditional customs are maintained in this part of Italy. Visit the farmers' museum or enjoy the sounds of a music band at an evening concert. Sample regional specialties like Strauben, risottos, or pasta at the Friday farmers' market.
Dolomites - 4 most beautiful natural sights
Three Peaks
Experience the majestic beauty of the Three Peaks, also known as Tre Cime di Lavaredo, in the heart of the Dolomites in Italy. These impressive peaks rise majestically above the landscape and offer an unforgettable panorama that captivates every nature lover. The Three Peaks are a paradise for hikers and climbers, with numerous trails leading through the breathtaking alpine landscape. The rugged rock formations that stand out against the sky are an impressive natural spectacle that must be seen. Whether you seek the challenge of the ascent or simply want to enjoy the spectacular view, the Three Peaks are an essential part of any trip to the Dolomites.
Misurina Lake
Lake Misurina, nestled in the majestic Dolomites of Italy, is a true natural paradise. Its crystal-clear waters reflect the rugged peaks and green forests that surround it, creating a breathtaking panorama that invigorates the senses. The fresh mountain air, the gentle lapping of the water, and the peaceful silence make Lake Misurina a perfect place for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you want to hike, cycle, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, Lake Misurina offers something for everyone. Let yourself be enchanted by the untouched beauty of this place and experience the Dolomites in all their glory.
Monte Cristallo
Monte Cristallo in the Dolomites of Italy is a breathtaking natural spectacle. With its majestic height of 3,221 meters, it dominates the surrounding landscape and offers an unparalleled sight. Its rugged peaks, glistening in the sunlight, resemble sparkling crystals - hence the name. The snow-covered slopes attract skiers and snowboarders from all over the world, while the green valleys and wild flower meadows in summer delight hikers and nature lovers. Monte Cristallo is not only a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts but also a place of tranquility and beauty that captivates every visitor. Discover this jewel of the Dolomites and let yourself be enchanted by its natural splendor.
Marmolada
The Marmolada, also known as the "Queen of the Dolomites," is a breathtaking natural wonder in Italy. With its majestic height of 3,343 meters, it is the highest peak of the Dolomites. Its snow-covered slopes and the sparkling glacier field immediately draw attention. The Marmolada offers a fascinating blend of wild beauty and serene grandeur that captivates every visitor. Whether you are an avid mountaineer or a nature lover, the Marmolada has something for everyone. Be enchanted by the unparalleled view and experience the pure magic of nature. Come and discover the Marmolada - a true jewel of the Dolomites.
Dolomites - Climate
In the Dolomites, there is a mix of alpine and maritime climate. Compared to the more northern Alps, spring and summer are somewhat longer and warmer. In the sunny summer, temperatures climb up to 25 degrees. The best time for hiking and similar activities is from May to October, although April and November can also be suitable to some extent. For winter sports, the primary months are from December to March. Depending on the altitude, temperatures can drop to as low as −20 degrees. The different altitudes can lead to locally varying temperatures.
The following graph shows the average weather conditions for the country. Historical weather conditions may vary by region.