The Dolomites: 10 Best Things to See and Do

Tucked away in Italy's Northeastern corner are the Dolomites – an iconic mountain range that enchants every visitor with towering spires, mesmerising sunsets, scenic lakes, and lovely alpine pastures. They set the stage for outdoor fun activities across all seasons. Disocver our collection of Dolomites Holidays and why not combine your trip with our other Italy Tours to create your ultimate Italian adventure. From hiking and biking adventures to hopping lakes and huts, there is so much to do and see. Certainly, one expedition won’t suffice to explore and relish all that this spectacular region has to offer. However, a few things stand out to experience, and they include:

Photo credit: Paolo Santilli

1. A Scenic Road Trip Across Mountain Passes

A scenic road drive across the mountain passes offers the best views of picturesque scenery. If there is one mountain pass to drive across, then it has to be Gardena Pass because the views from its top are spellbinding. Don't just take a peep from the car. Step out, park at the summit, and drink in some of the best vistas of the Dolomites. Other mountain passes to see include Rolle Pass, Sella Pass, and Pordoi Pass. Also, don’t worry about coming with a car as you can conveniently rent one.

2. Hopping and Exploring Lakes

The Dolomites are peppered with a series of stunning alpine lakes at their foothills, and if you are hard-pressed for time, exploring these lakes would be an unforgettable way to experience the region; beauty and magic intertwine on these lakes. The best lakes to explore include the Great Five Lakes, Lago di Braies, Lago di Sorapis, Lago di Carezza, and Lago di Misurina. These magnificent crystal-clear lakes framed by mountain peaks provide the perfect backdrop for picnics, sit-outs, and blissful respite from the thick of things. Alternatively, rent a boat and row upstream.

3. Hike From Hut to Hut

If you are up for hikes and meet the physical requirements, hiking from hut to hut immerses you in the cultural perspective of the region, while charming mountain views are a given. Also known as Rifugios, these huts expose you to life in the mountains, with a few luxurious amenities such as saunas and of course, tasty foods and wines. Just because it's labelled a hut-to-hut hike doesn't mean the experience will be about huts alone. You'll be hiking through natural parks and mountain passes, diving into the local culture of the Alta Badia region, and staying in the best rifugios.

4. Tasting Italian Dolomity Cuisines

The experience is never truly complete without tasting out of the pots of the Dolomites. After a road trip or hiking from one hut to another, repose in one of the mountain huts and demand a tantalising Italian, Tyrolean, or Ladin cuisine to refill dispelled energy. Some recommended dishes to try include, Knodel (a large breadcrumb), Schlutzkrapfen (a unique kind of pasta), Polenta (boiled cornmeal), and Brettljause (a snack bread).

5. Biking Along Scenic Paths

Biking is a worthy and more thrilling alternative to hiking because you can cover more ground and savour more gorgeous mountain scenery. Bike along the Eisack River and Valley, the Puster Valley down to Bruneck and Ahrn Valley, and even to Austria and be thrilled by lovely sights. The beauty of these biking routes lies in the varied landscapes that you will traverse. Rolling hills, forests, scenic villages steeped in old-time traditions, wineries, valleys, and mountains, are all waiting to welcome you and your two-wheeled companion.

6. Hike Europe’s Highest Alpine Meadows

In summer and spring, Europe’s highest alpine meadows glow magically and leave many jaws dropped. Named Alpe Di Siusi, it’s a natural wonder featuring rolling verdant green hills, wildflowers, and elegant Rifugios dotting the landscape. You might need to walk a little to where it all gets dreamy. Visitors not lodging in any of the hotels within the area have to park at Compaccio and make the one-hour walk at most, to the meadows. Don't forget to come with a camera.

7. Tour A Mountain Museum

For history buffs, there's a mountain museum to explore in the Dolomites and have an insight into the region's history. The Messner Mountain Museum situated in Sigmundskron Castle, offers more than a glimpse into the relationship between humans and the mountains. Visitors can also explore the castle itself, which is as stately as they come, and witness mountain landscape exhibitions, among other interesting tours.

8. Climb a Via Ferrata Route

Outdoor junkies and adventurers, climbing a Via Ferrata Route is one of the best ways to explore the Dolomites. A Via Ferrata Route is a protected iron path route meant for climbing, with special cables, ladders, and rungs. These features help climbers ascend the mountains and descend safely. The adventure is more thrilling than a hike, and interestingly, it comes in various levels (easy, moderate, difficult, and extremely hard).

9. Stroll Through Quaint Villages

Several villages dot the alpine landscapes of the Dolomites region and await exploration. Cortina d'ampezzo is a notable mention and renowned as the Queen of the Dolomites. This picture-perfect town is framed by the Dolomites and lavish with local culture and history. Stroll along its idyllic streets, visit the elegant Corso Italia below the cliff, or explore an old railroad while here. For a more refined and immersive experience, take a 5-day tour that includes exploring Dolomite villages, among a range of other exhilarating experiences in the region.

10. Embark on a Snowshoeing Adventure

Exploring the Dolomites in winter feels entirely different and comes with the perks of uncommon views. The entire landscape is sprinkled with powdery white sand and snow, setting the stage for exciting snowshoeing adventures. To get the most out of the experience, pick an 8-day adventure package that starts from the village of Villabassa. The guided walks run through Fanes-Sennes Natural Park along the shores of Lago di Braies, with walks through Tre Cime di Lavaredo featuring three magnificent peaks and exotic dining in Rifugios at the backdrop of WW1 history tales.

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