Dolomites, Italy

Here’s a detailed 3 to 4-day itinerary for visiting the Dolomites, Italy, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic peaks, picturesque valleys, and incredible hiking trails. This itinerary covers some of the best hikes, scenic drives, and charming alpine towns, giving you an immersive experience in this stunning mountain region.

Day 1: Cortina d’Ampezzo and Lago di Sorapis

• Morning:

  • Arrive in Cortina d’Ampezzo, one of the most famous alpine towns in the Dolomites. Known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” Cortina is a perfect base for exploring the surrounding mountains. Start by strolling around the town’s picturesque streets, lined with cozy cafes, chic shops, and beautiful alpine chalets.

  • Set off on one of the region’s most popular hikes: the Lago di Sorapis trail. Starting at Passo Tre Croci (a 15-minute drive from Cortina), the moderate hike takes around 4-5 hours round trip. The trail offers panoramic mountain views, leading you through dense forests and steep paths to the breathtaking turquoise Lago di Sorapis, nestled beneath towering peaks.

• Afternoon:

  • Have a packed picnic by the lake or grab a quick lunch at a cafe in Cortina before your hike. Spend time at Lago di Sorapis relaxing and taking photos of the vibrant blue water and surrounding rugged mountains.

  • Return to Cortina and enjoy the rest of the afternoon exploring the town’s elegant streets or sipping coffee at an alpine cafe.

• Evening:

  • Treat yourself to dinner at Ristorante Tivoli, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering creative Italian cuisine made with local ingredients. Afterward, take a leisurely evening walk through Cortina as the sun sets behind the mountains.

    
    

Day 2: Tre Cime di Lavaredo

• Morning:

  • Begin your day with a drive to Tre Cime di Lavaredo, one of the Dolomites’ most iconic spots. The trailhead at Rifugio Auronzo can be reached via a toll road from Misurina (about 30 minutes from Cortina). The entrance fee for the road is around €30, but it’s well worth it for the scenic views.

  • Start the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop, a 3-4 hour hike offering dramatic views of the jagged peaks and surrounding valleys. Along the way, you’ll pass wildflower-filled meadows and rocky landscapes. Stop at Rifugio Locatelli for coffee or a snack while admiring the stunning Dolomite scenery.

• Afternoon:

  • After completing the hike, enjoy a packed lunch or dine at one of the mountain huts along the trail, sampling hearty alpine meals like polenta or speck.

  • Visit Lago di Misurina, a tranquil lake nearby, for a relaxing walk or rowboat rental. Take in the peaceful surroundings and the reflection of the surrounding peaks on the lake's surface.

• Evening:

  • Return to Cortina for dinner at Ristorante Al Camin, a cozy restaurant serving Italian and Tyrolean dishes in a warm mountain setting. After dinner, unwind at your hotel or enjoy an evening walk through the town’s illuminated streets.

    
    

Day 3: Seceda and Val Gardena

• Morning:

  • Drive to Ortisei in Val Gardena (about 1.5 hours from Cortina). Val Gardena is one of the most picturesque valleys in the Dolomites, known for its scenic beauty and traditional Ladin culture. Take the Seceda cable car from Ortisei to the summit of Seceda Mountain, one of the most photographed peaks in the region.

  • Spend your morning hiking around Seceda, where panoramic views of the sharp peaks, rolling meadows, and distant mountain ranges await. Trails range from easy to moderate, allowing you to choose a route that suits your preference. Stop at one of the rifugi (mountain huts) for a coffee or snack with unbeatable views.

• Afternoon:

  • Have lunch at Rifugio Seceda, enjoying traditional South Tyrolean cuisine like speckknödel (dumplings with speck) and kaiserschmarrn (sweet shredded pancakes).

  • After lunch, take the cable car back down to Ortisei. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming village, known for its vibrant buildings, woodcarving tradition, and local artisan shops. Visit the Church of Saint Ulrich or stop at a cafe for a coffee.

• Evening:

  • For dinner, visit Tubladel, a cozy Ortisei restaurant blending Italian and Tyrolean cuisine. After dinner, return to your accommodation in Val Gardena or Cortina for a peaceful evening.

    
    

Day 4 (Optional): Alpe di Siusi and Sella Pass

• Morning:

  • On your final day, drive to Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm), Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow (about an hour from Ortisei). Park in Compatsch and explore the region on foot or by renting bikes. Alpe di Siusi is famous for its rolling green pastures surrounded by towering peaks.

  • Hike the Panorama Trail, a scenic route through meadows filled with wildflowers and stunning views of Sassolungo and Sassopiatto. The easy trails here are perfect for leisurely walks.

• Afternoon:

  • Have lunch at Rifugio Zallinger, where you can enjoy local favorites like canederli (bread dumplings) and goulash while soaking in the beautiful scenery.

  • After lunch, take a scenic drive to Sella Pass, which offers dramatic views of the Sella Group and Sassolungo Massif. Consider a short hike to one of the viewpoints, or simply enjoy the breathtaking landscapes from the pass.

• Evening:

  • For your final dinner, return to Ortisei or Cortina and enjoy one last meal of Tyrolean and Italian delicacies. Reflect on your adventures in the Dolomites as you enjoy a peaceful evening in the mountains.

    
    

Tips for Visiting the Dolomites:

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Dolomites is during the summer (June to September) when the weather is warm and the hiking trails are open. May and October are also excellent times to visit, though some trails may have snow.

• Getting Around: Renting a car is the easiest way to explore the Dolomites at your own pace. Roads are well-maintained but expect steep, winding roads in some areas.

• What to Pack: Bring comfortable hiking shoes, layers for varying weather, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A camera is essential for capturing the stunning landscapes.