2
On the lookout for an epic journey via some of the gorgeous mountain ranges on the earth? This Dolomites street journey itinerary is your excellent information!
I’ve pushed via the Dolomites 5 instances over time. And let me let you know, these mountains in Northeastern Italy are completely completely different from different elements of the Alps. The alpine meadows, jagged peaks, and charming cities are distinctive from the opposite European mountains I’ve been to. On this information, I’ve included all my favourite must-see stops and hidden gems you received’t discover in different guides.
I’ve crafted this 12-day itinerary to make sure you hit all of the highlights with out spending an excessive amount of time behind the wheel. From the bustling city of Bolzano to the serene meadows of Alpe di Siusi, prepare for an unforgettable street journey via one among Italy’s most lovely areas!
Planning the Finest Dolomites Highway Journey
A 12-day street journey via the Dolomites is good to soak in all of the gorgeous sights and experiences this area presents. This period means that you can discover at a relaxed tempo, hitting all the most important highlights with out feeling rushed. You’ll have loads of time for scenic hikes, leisurely drives, and savoring the native delicacies–which tastes extra Austrian than Italian (extra on that later).
The Dolomites are within the Northeastern Italian Alps, extending from the Austrian border to the Venetian plains. It’s over 250 kilometers lengthy and covers elements of Veneto, Trentino Alto-Adige (additionally known as South Tyrol), and Friuli-Venezia Giulia.
The perfect start line for any Dolomites street journey is Bolzano (“Bozen” in German, the spoken language in South Tyrol). Nonetheless, on condition that there aren’t many direct flights to Bolzano from main cities round Europe, some vacationers select to fly into Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE), Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN), or Innsbruck Airport (INN). To make this itinerary so simple as potential, I’ll start the street journey in Bolzano, assuming that almost all vacationers will both fly or take a prepare there.
Right here’s all the pieces you must know to your Dolomites street journey in 2024. I’ve acquired an in depth itinerary, 12-day street journey map, high spots to go to, and important tricks to make your journey easy and memorable.
Highway Journey Itinerary Map for the Dolomites
This map highlights all the important thing stops for my Dolomites street journey. I’ll dive into these wonderful locations in additional element under, providing you with suggestions and tips to make your journey as pleasant as potential.
Days 1-2: Bolzano
Welcome to Bolzano (“Bozen”), your excellent gateway to the Dolomites! This charming city is a melting pot of Italian and Austrian cultures, nestled in a valley surrounded by vineyards and the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites.
Bolzano is understood for its sunny climate, incomes it the nickname “Gateway to the South”. It’s the right spot to kick off your street journey, with easy accessibility to most of the high cultural websites and nature spots. Bolzano is located within the westernmost a part of the area, however many of the Dolomites is inside a 1.5-hour automotive experience away. As such, it is sensible to have Bolzano as your house base for a very good portion of the journey.
Right here’s what to look out for in Bolzano:
- Piazza Walther: This bustling sq. is the center of Bolzano, excellent for people-watching and soaking within the native environment. Seize a espresso at one of many out of doors cafes and benefit from the view of the gorgeous Cathedral of Bolzano.
- South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology: Residence to Ötzi the Iceman, this museum presents a captivating glimpse into the area’s prehistoric previous. It’s a must-visit, particularly on a wet day.
- Castel Roncolo: Often known as Runkelstein Citadel, this medieval citadel boasts spectacular frescoes depicting scenes of courtly life. It’s only a quick drive from the town middle and presents nice views of the encircling space.
- Cable Automotive to Soprabolzano: Take a scenic experience as much as Soprabolzano for breathtaking views of Bolzano and the Dolomites. As soon as there, you may discover charming villages and take a stroll alongside the well-known Rittnerbahn narrow-gauge railway.
- Wine Tasting in Caldaro: Only a quick drive from Bolzano, the village of Caldaro (Kaltern) is legendary for its wine manufacturing. Go to one of many native wineries to pattern some wonderful South Tyrolean wines, notably the area’s signature white wine, Gewürztraminer.
Extra Issues to Do in Bolzano
- Rastenbach Gorge Hike: Situated within the Castelvecchio Forest in Caldaro, the Rastenback Gorge Hike (“Rastenbachklamm” in German) is a 3-mile hike with a excessive ROI. It’s acquired wonderful panoramic views of the valley and vineyards.
- Messner Mountain Museum: This museum, a part of a sequence created by legendary mountaineer Reinhold Messner, is situated in Sigmundskron Citadel. It presents a deep dive into the world of mountaineering and the cultures of mountain folks.
- By way of dei Portici: Wander via this historic road lined with medieval arcades, retailers, and cafes. It’s an ideal place to select up some native souvenirs or take pleasure in a gelato.
- Bolzano Christmas Market: If you happen to’re visiting in the course of the winter months, don’t miss the enchanting Christmas market in Piazza Walther. It’s some of the well-known in Italy, providing handmade crafts, festive meals, and a magical vacation environment.
- Talvera Park: An ideal spot for a soothing stroll or picnic, particularly within the hotter months. The park stretches alongside the river and presents lovely views of the encircling mountains.
- South Tyrolean Wine Route: Often known as the Alto Adige Wine Highway, this is among the oldest and most scenic wine routes in Italy. It spans 150 kilometers, beginning in Bolzano and overlaying 70 wineries in 16 villages. The By way of Claudia Augusta is a superb bike path alongside the Adige River!
Autumn is harvest season in South Tyrol, excellent for wine lovers. Take part in a neighborhood wine competition or go to throughout Törggelen, a conventional celebration with chestnuts, new wine, and hearty meals!
Days 3-4: Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)
Subsequent up on my Dolomites journey is Alpe di Siusi (“Seiser Alm” in German), Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow. This gorgeous space is ideal for street trippers who love scenic hikes. It’s additionally a well-liked snowboarding spot within the winter.
Do you know that Alpe di Siusi can be a UNESCO World Heritage web site? It’s the perfect spot to unwind, soak up the fantastic thing about the Dolomites, and revel in some out of doors actions. That is actually one among my favourite viewpoints in all of Europe!
Know earlier than you go: Solely people who find themselves staying in a single day on the Alpine pasture are allowed to journey there by automotive. Everybody else must both drive as much as Compaccio earlier than 9am (after they shut the street) or take the cable automotive from Siusi allo Sciliar (“Seis am Schlern”). If you happen to determine to drive to Compaccio early within the morning, observe that you just’ll should take public transport or hike from there. To avoid wasting you the effort, I like to recommend staying in Seiser Alm. It’s definitely worth the hefty worth, belief me!
Listed below are my favourite spots and actions in Seiser Alm:
- Compaccio (Compatsch): That is your start line in Alpe di Siusi. It’s a small village the place you may park your automotive and start your exploration. From right here, you may take a cable automotive or begin climbing.
- Mountaineering Trails: Alpe di Siusi presents quite a lot of trails for all talent ranges. The Hans and Paula Steger Path is my private favourite, providing average problem with gorgeous views of the Dolomites. In spring and summer season, the meadows are bursting with wildflowers, making it excellent for nature lovers and photographers.
- Mountains Schlern and Sassolungo: These iconic peaks present a dramatic backdrop to the meadows. You may hike or take a cable automotive to get nearer views. In winter, these peaks are lined in snow, providing a totally completely different but equally gorgeous panorama.
- Panorama Restaurant: After a day of climbing, take pleasure in a meal with a view at this restaurant. They serve scrumptious native dishes, and the out of doors seating presents panoramic views of the encircling mountains, making it one of many distinctive eating places in Italy.
Extra Actions in Alpe de Susi
- Biking Routes: If you happen to’re into biking, Alpe di Siusi has some unbelievable routes. Lease a motorbike in Compaccio and discover the meadows at your personal tempo.
- Winter Sports activities: In winter, Alpe di Siusi transforms right into a winter wonderland. You may go snowboarding, snowboarding, and even attempt cross-country snowboarding. The Alpe di Siusi Ski Resort is family-friendly and has slopes for all talent ranges.
- St. Valentin Church: This picturesque little church with a backdrop of the Dolomites is a superb spot for a photograph op. It’s particularly lovely within the early morning gentle or at sundown.
- Spa Day: After exploring, deal with your self to a soothing spa day. A number of inns and resorts within the space supply wonderful spa services with views of the mountains. The Adler Lodge Alpe is my go-to spot for a day spa.
Don’t miss out on attempting native dishes like speck (smoked ham) and knödel (dumplings). There are many mountain huts the place you may take pleasure in a hearty meal.
Days 5-6: Val Gardena
Val Gardena is a valley within the coronary heart of the Dolomites. It’s part of the well-known Dolomiti Superski space, providing among the finest snowboarding on the earth. In summer season, it’s a hiker’s paradise with trails that result in jaw-dropping viewpoints. This valley is wealthy in tradition, with a robust custom of wooden carving and native craftsmanship.
For me, Val Gardena is one of the best space to remain within the western a part of the Dolomites. It’s solely 45 minutes to Bolzano and half-hour to Seiser Alm. If you happen to take a look at my Dolomites street journey map above, you’ll discover that Val Gardena is inside a brief drive to many of the iconic sights within the western Dolomites.
Relying on the time of 12 months, you would possibly catch one among the native festivals. In winter, the Christmas markets are a must-see, whereas summer season brings music festivals and cultural occasions!
Listed below are one of the best spots to go to:
- Ortisei: That is the biggest village in Val Gardena, recognized for its colourful buildings and vigorous environment. Stroll via the pedestrian-friendly middle, go to the native retailers, and revel in a espresso in one of many many cafes.
- Seceda Ridge: Take the cable automotive from Ortisei or Santa Cristina as much as Seceda for among the most gorgeous panoramic views within the Dolomites. From right here, you may embark on a number of climbing trails, together with my favourite one to Rifugio Firenze.
- Selva di Val Gardena: This village is a hub for out of doors actions. It’s an ideal start line for hikes in the summertime and snowboarding within the winter. My favourite hike is Alta By way of di Crespëina to Rifugio Puez, which begins from the Dantercëpies cable automotive. The village itself has a comfortable, welcoming vibe with loads of eating choices.
- Sella Cross: Drive or take a bus to the Sella Cross for spectacular views and entry to some nice climbing trails. The drive could be fairly winding, so take it gradual and benefit from the surroundings.
- Santa Cristina: A small village within the valley surrounded by scenic meadows and mountain peaks. From the Col Raiser cable automotive, you may attain the summits of Fermeda and Sass Rigais. I extremely advocate this expertise, it’s definitely worth the 20€!
Extra Actions to Take into account
- By way of Ferrata Gran Cir: If you happen to’re seeking to see one of many nicest sunrises within the Dolomites, think about climbing to the highest of Gran Cir, a mountain cross between Val Gardena and Val Badia. The summit is at 2,592m, and the hike takes round 2-3 hours (4.5km). If in case you have good footwear, ferrata tools isn’t wanted.
- Alpe di Siusi Tour: If you happen to haven’t had sufficient of the gorgeous Alpe di Siusi, it’s simply accessible from Val Gardena. A brief drive or bus experience will get you there for extra climbing or simply soaking within the views.
- Monte Pana: It is a great place for family-friendly actions. In summer season, you may take pleasure in climbing and picnics, and in winter, there are wonderful newbie slopes for snowboarding and a enjoyable snow park for youths.
- Conventional Meals: Don’t go away Val Gardena with out attempting some native specialties. Head to a conventional restaurant for dishes like Gröstel (fried potatoes with meat and onions) and apple strudel. My favourite spot is Rifugio Emilio Comici, which presents wonderful views together with scrumptious meals.
- Sassolungo Group Loop: This 10-mile hike close to Selva di Val Gardena is certainly a problem, however it’s properly price it. From the Piza da Uridl, you’ll have gorgeous views of Seiser Alm.
Val Gardena is legendary for its wooden carving. Go to a neighborhood workshop to see artisans at work and possibly choose up a singular memento. The Museum Gherdëina in Ortisei showcases this wealthy custom and different native historical past!
Days 7-8: Alta Badia
Situated on the opposite aspect of the Dolomiti Superski space, you’ll discover Alta Badia, which is dwelling to the oldest language and tradition within the Italian Alps. Ladin is spoken by some 30,000 native audio system all through South Tyrol, Italy.
This area is legendary for its dramatic landscapes, charming alpine villages, and top-notch mountain meals. Energetic festivals, traditions, and customs are nonetheless on full show right here!
For me, the spotlight of visiting right here is the climbing. The Alta Badia Excessive Route is 76 kilometers lengthy and takes roughly 4-6 days. There are a number of mountain huts alongside the route which can be excellent for an in a single day keep. Although in the event you’re on a good schedule, spending 1-2 days in Alta Badia gives you greater than sufficient time to expertise the area’s highlights.
Right here’s What to Look Out for in Alta Badia:
- Corvara: This picturesque village is the center of Alta Badia and an ideal base for exploring the realm. As the primary vacationer middle, it presents quite a lot of lodging, eating places, and retailers.
- Lagazuoi Cable Automotive: Take the cable automotive as much as Lagazuoi for breathtaking views of the Dolomites. On the high, you may discover WWI tunnels and trenches. In winter, this space is fashionable for snowboarding, and in summer season, it’s excellent for climbing.
- Santa Croce Sanctuary: A ravishing pilgrimage web site with gorgeous views of the encircling mountains. The hike as much as the sanctuary is peaceable and rewarding.
- Sella Ronda: A must-do for skiers and cyclists, this well-known loop presents among the finest surroundings within the Dolomites. In winter, ski the whole circuit, and in summer season, deal with it on a motorbike. If you happen to’re driving, take your time and benefit from the quite a few scenic stops alongside the best way.
- Armentarola: Recognized for its cross-country snowboarding trails in winter and exquisite climbing paths in summer season. The pure ice rink here’s a enjoyable winter exercise.
- Museum Ladin: This museum is a superb place to be taught concerning the area’s heritage, language, and customs.
This area is a meals lover’s paradise, dwelling to a number of Michelin-starred eating places. Deal with your self to a meal at La Stüa de Michil or Ristorante La Siriola.
For the extra adventurous, attempt paragliding from Piz La Ila or Col Alt. The views from above are completely gorgeous and it’s an expertise you received’t neglect. If you happen to’re into bike driving, I like to recommend coinciding your go to with SellaRonda Bike Day, which shall be held on September 7, 2024.
Days 9-10: Cortina d’Ampezzo
Also known as the “Queen of the Dolomites”, this stylish alpine city is legendary for its gorgeous surroundings, world-class snowboarding, and vibrant après-ski scene. It’s my favourite dwelling base for exploring the japanese a part of the Dolomites, so plan to spend no less than 2-3 nights right here.
Enjoyable truth: Cortina was the host of the 1956 Winter Olympics and also will co-host the 2026 Winter Olympics. Past its glamorous status, the city can be surrounded by among the most dramatic peaks within the Dolomites. Cortina presents a mixture of out of doors adventures and splendid rest, making it a unbelievable cease in your Dolomites street journey.
Listed below are my high spots in Cortina d’Ampezzo:
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo: These iconic three peaks are a must-see. Mountaineering round Tre Cime is among the high issues to do within the Dolomites and presents among the most spectacular views. In summer season, the paths are excellent for climbing, and in winter, you may discover the realm on snowshoes.
- Lago di Sorapis: This gorgeous turquoise lake is accessible through a reasonably difficult hike. The reward is an unimaginable view of the pristine lake surrounded by rugged mountains. Highway Journey Tip: Begin early to keep away from the crowds and convey loads of water.
- Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee): Generally known as the “Pearl of the Dolomites” and one of many most lovely locations within the Dolomites, this lake is ideal for a leisurely stroll or a ship experience. The reflections of the mountains within the clear waters are completely mesmerizing. In all probability my favourite lake in all of Europe!
- Faloria Cable Automotive: Take the cable automotive as much as Mount Faloria for panoramic views of the city and surrounding peaks. It’s an ideal spot for snowboarding within the winter and climbing in the summertime.
Extra Actions in Cortina
- Cortina Ski Resort: With over 120 kilometers of slopes, this resort is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. It presents a mixture of runs for all talent ranges. In winter, don’t miss the well-known “Skitour Olympia” which follows the routes of the 1956 Winter Olympics.
- Historic Middle: Stroll via Cortina’s charming city middle with its upscale retailers, cafes, and eating places. The Corso Italia is the primary road, excellent for a night passeggiata (stroll).
- Tofana di Rozes: For knowledgeable hikers, this peak presents difficult trails and climbing routes with gorgeous views. In winter, the Tofana space is a part of the ski resort, providing among the finest slopes within the area.
- Museo all’Aperto delle 5 Torri: This open-air museum options World Struggle I trenches and fortifications. It’s an attention-grabbing historic web site mixed with lovely mountain surroundings.
- Toblacher See (Lago di Dobbiaco): That is one other lovely lake and hike north of Cortina. It’s located in Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park.
The place to Keep in Cortina
- Cristallo, a Luxurious Assortment Resort & Spa: This luxury lodge presents elegant rooms, a full-service spa, and effective eating, all with gorgeous views of the Dolomites.
- Resort Ambra Cortina: A boutique lodge within the coronary heart of Cortina, offering cozy lodging with a mix of conventional and fashionable decor, excellent for a cushty keep.
Cortina is understood for its high-end boutiques and sports activities retailers. It’s an ideal place to select up some cool alpine gear earlier than hitting the slopes!
Days 11-12: Val di Fassa
Welcome to the grand finale of your Dolomites street journey! Val di Fassa, a picturesque valley within the Trentino province, is the right place to wrap up your journey. It’s on the best way again to Bolzano, making it a handy cease and providing you with a distinct style of the Dolomiti!
This space is famend for its gorgeous mountain views, wealthy Ladin tradition, and plethora of outside actions. It’s dwelling to the Avisio River and several other epic peaks, together with Catinaccio, Gruppo della Sella, Marmolada, and Sasso Piatto. You’ll additionally discover 7 ski resorts inside the valley with some 200 kilometers of trails!
Professional Tip: Try the Val di Fassa Card, which may give you reductions on lifts, native transport, and entry to sights. It’s an effective way to economize whereas exploring. Native inns which can be partnered with the vacationer board will present it without spending a dime!
Add these spots to your Dolomites itinerary:
- Sass Pordoi: Take the cable automotive from Passo Pordoi as much as Sass Pordoi, usually known as the “Terrace of the Dolomites.” The views from the highest are completely breathtaking, providing panoramic vistas of the encircling peaks. In winter, it’s an ideal start line for snowboarding, and in summer season, it’s excellent for climbing and mountaineering.
- Canazei: This vigorous village is a superb base for exploring Val di Fassa. It presents a variety of lodging, eating places, and retailers. Canazei has a number of parking choices, however they’ll refill rapidly throughout peak seasons, so arrive early.
- Sella Cross: A scenic drive via Sella Cross is a should. The street winds via spectacular mountain surroundings and presents loads of alternatives to cease and take photographs. Seasonal Tip: In summer season, the cross is fashionable with cyclists, and in winter, it’s a key space for snowboarding.
- Vajolet Towers: For the extra adventurous, hike as much as the Vajolet Towers, a bunch of putting rock spires. The hike is difficult however presents unimaginable views. Begin early within the morning to keep away from the afternoon crowds and guarantee you could have sufficient daylight for the hike.
- Karersee: Often known as Lago di Carezza, this is among the most gorgeous spots within the Dolomites. It’s well-known for its crystal-clear emerald waters and breathtaking mountain backdrop. Nestled amongst dense forests, this picturesque lake is a must-visit for its serene magnificence and vibrant colours that change with the sunshine.
Extra Spots to See in Val di Vassa
- Ladin Museum: Situated within the city of Vigo di Fassa, this museum presents fascinating insights into the native Ladin tradition and historical past. It’s an ideal place to be taught concerning the distinctive traditions and lifestyle within the Dolomites.
- Marmolada Glacier: Generally known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” Marmolada is the best peak within the vary. Take the cable automotive as much as the glacier for gorgeous views and a go to to the Museum of the Nice Struggle. Seasonal Tip: In winter, Marmolada presents among the finest snowboarding within the area.
- Terme Dolomia: After a day of exploring, loosen up on the thermal baths in Pozza di Fassa. The spa presents varied therapies and thermal swimming pools, excellent for unwinding.
- Alba di Canazei: Go to this small village for its charming environment and entry to the Ciampac-Buffaure ski space. It’s additionally an ideal spot for climbing in the summertime.
Make the most of the mountain huts (rifugi) scattered all through the realm. They provide meals, snacks, and generally in a single day lodging. Rifugio Contrin and Rifugio Fuciade are fashionable selections with gorgeous views.
Trip Again to Bolzano
After soaking in the fantastic thing about Val di Fassa, it’s time to move again to Bolzano. The journey again is simply as scenic, and there are a few routes you may take to take pleasure in probably the most of this picturesque panorama. Right here’s how one can make your experience again to Bolzano easy and pleasant.
Urged Routes:
Route 1: By way of Sella Cross and Gardena Cross
This route takes you thru the gorgeous Sella Cross and Gardena Cross, providing among the finest mountain views within the Dolomites. The roads could be winding and steep, so take it gradual and benefit from the views. There are many pull-off spots for photographs.
Should-See Stops:
- Sella Cross: Cease on the high for panoramic views and a brief hike in case you have time.
- Gardena Cross: One other scenic cease with breathtaking vistas. Good for a picnic or a espresso break at a mountain hut.
Route 2: By way of Carezza Lake
This route takes you previous the gorgeous Carezza Lake, often known as Lago di Carezza, with its emerald-green waters. The route is comparatively easy however can get busy throughout peak seasons. Begin early to keep away from visitors and get one of the best gentle for photographs.
Should-See Stops:
- Carezza Lake (Karersee): Spend a while strolling across the lake. The reflections of the Latemar mountain vary within the water are gorgeous.
- Nova Levante: An enthralling village the place you may cease for lunch or a espresso.
- Tramin: I like to recommend spending a few hours exploring this village earlier than heading again to Bolzano. That is the place Gewürztraminer wine is initially from!
Issues to Take into account When Planning Your Highway Journey
Earlier than you pack your luggage and hit the street, listed below are a couple of key issues to contemplate earlier than setting off on a 12 day journey via the Dolomites.
The place to Begin Your Highway Journey
Beginning your Dolomites street journey in Bolzano is a unbelievable concept. Often known as Bozen, this vibrant Italian metropolis serves as the right gateway to the Dolomites. Bolzano is well-connected by prepare, automotive, and even flights, with a small airport making it simply accessible from main cities like Milan or Venice, making it one of many high locations to reside and go to in Italy.
You’ll discover loads of automotive rental choices in Bolzano, making it handy to select up your car and hit the street. Spend a day or two right here to acclimate, particularly in the event you’re not used to greater altitudes.
From Bolzano, you could have entry to among the most scenic drives into the center of the Dolomites, together with routes via Val Gardena and Alpe di Siusi. These routes supply breathtaking views and are the right begin to your journey.
Finest Time of Yr for a Dolomites Highway Journey
Choosing the proper time of 12 months to your Dolomites street journey could make a giant distinction. Right here’s a fast information that can assist you determine:
- Summer time (June to August): That is the most well-liked time for a street journey. The climate is heat, the times are lengthy, and all climbing trails and mountain passes are open. It’s excellent for out of doors actions like climbing, biking, and climbing. Nonetheless, it may be crowded, so e-book lodging upfront.
- Autumn (September to October): Autumn is a unbelievable time to go to. The crowds skinny out, the climate continues to be nice, and the autumn foliage is breathtaking. It’s a good time for images and having fun with the pure magnificence with out the summer season rush.
- Winter (December to February): If you happen to’re into winter sports activities, that is your season. The Dolomites supply world-class snowboarding, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Simply be ready for colder climate and doubtlessly snowy driving situations.
- Spring (March to Could): Spring is quieter and the surroundings is gorgeous with blooming flowers and melting snow. Nonetheless, some greater elevation trails and passe
Variety of Days for a Dolomites Highway Journey
What number of days you’ll want for a Dolomites street journey is determined by your locations, actions, and journey tempo. To actually benefit from the Dolomites, a street journey of no less than 10 to 12 days is really useful.
- 7 Days: If you happen to’re quick on time, you may nonetheless expertise the Dolomites’ magnificence in a condensed 7-day journey. Give attention to key spots like Bolzano, Val Gardena, and Cortina d’Ampezzo. This gives you a style of the area’s gorgeous landscapes and wealthy tradition, however count on a extra fast-paced itinerary.
- 10-12 Days: This period means that you can cowl main highlights like Bolzano, Alpe di Siusi, Val Gardena, Alta Badia, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and Val di Fassa. It offers a balanced itinerary with sufficient time to discover every space completely, take pleasure in scenic drives, and partake in out of doors actions like climbing, snowboarding, and biking.
- 3-4 Weeks: With extra time, you may delve deeper into the area. Add stops like Val di Funes, Marmolada Glacier, and discover lesser-known Italian gems like San Martino di Castrozza. This prolonged itinerary allows you to take pleasure in scenic detours, interact in multi-day hikes, and actually soak within the Dolomites’ various magnificence at a leisurely tempo.
Different Locations to Take into account on Your Highway Journey
If in case you have extra time and need to see much more of what the Dolomites have to supply, think about visiting these different unimaginable spots:
- Val di Funes: Recognized for its picturesque villages and the gorgeous backdrop of the Odle peaks. Nice for images and peaceable hikes. Don’t miss the enduring view from Santa Maddalena Church.
- Marmolada Glacier: The very best peak within the Dolomites, providing wonderful views and snowboarding. Take the cable automotive as much as the glacier and go to the Museum of the Nice Struggle.
- San Martino di Castrozza: An enthralling village surrounded by spectacular peaks. Good for climbing in summer season and snowboarding in winter. The Pale di San Martino mountains are a must-see.
- Brenta Dolomites: A less-visited space with dramatic landscapes and fewer crowds. Splendid for these searching for a quieter expertise. Nice for climbing and climbing. Technically, that is
- Val di Non: Well-known for its apple orchards and exquisite landscapes. Go to in the course of the apple harvest for a singular expertise and don’t miss the gorgeous Lake Tovel.
FAQs About Dolomites Highway Journeys
Listed below are some fashionable questions (and solutions) about how one can plan a Dolomites street journey.
What does a 7-day journey itinerary for the Dolomites seem like?
If you happen to solely have every week to discover the Dolomites, listed below are the must-see stops you’ll need to embody on a street journey:
- Day 1: Begin your street journey in Bolzano. Discover the charming city, go to the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology to see Ötzi the Iceman, and stroll via Piazza Walther.
- Day 2: Head to Alpe di Siusi. Benefit from the scenic cable automotive experience, hike via Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow, and take within the gorgeous views of the encircling peaks.
- Day 3-4: Journey to Val Gardena. Go to the villages of Ortisei and Selva, hike as much as the Seceda ridge for panoramic views, and discover the native wooden carving traditions.
- Day 5: Drive to Alta Badia. Take the Lagazuoi cable automotive for breathtaking views, discover Corvara, and savor gourmand meals at one of many Michelin-starred eating places.
- Day 6: Proceed to Cortina d’Ampezzo. Go to Tre Cime di Lavaredo, hike to Lago di Sorapis, and discover the city’s vibrant middle.
- Day 7: End your journey in Val di Fassa. Take the cable automotive as much as Sass Pordoi, hike across the Vajolet Towers, and loosen up on the thermal baths in Pozza di Fassa.
The place precisely are the Dolomites?
The Dolomites are located primarily within the provinces of Belluno, South Tyrol, and Trentino. They stretch throughout the areas of Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, and Friuli Venezia Giulia. The Dolomites prolong from the Adige River within the west to the Piave Valley within the east. They’re bordered by the Puster Valley within the north and the Sugana Valley within the south.
Opposite to fashionable perception, Trento and Merano are usually not a part of the Dolomites. Whereas they’re situated within the Trentino-Alto Adige area and are near the Dolomites, these cities themselves are usually not inside the Dolomite vary. That’s the reason I didn’t embody these locations in my Dolomites journey itinerary.
How are you going to see the Dolomites in 5 days?
On the lookout for a 5-day street journey itinerary for the Dolomites? Right here’s an environment friendly but pleasant plan to profit from your time:
- Day 1: Begin in Bolzano. Discover the town’s highlights, together with Piazza Walther and the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology.
- Day 2: Drive to Alpe di Siusi. Take the cable automotive, take pleasure in climbing within the meadows, and take within the views.
- Day 3: Head to Val Gardena. Go to Ortisei, hike as much as Seceda, and discover the native villages.
- Day 4: Journey to Cortina d’Ampezzo. Go to Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and stroll via the city middle.
- Day 5: Discover Val di Fassa. Take the cable automotive as much as Sass Pordoi and benefit from the scenic views.
What are some scenic routes to soak up the Dolomites?
- Nice Dolomites Highway (Grande Strada delle Dolomiti): This well-known route runs from Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo, providing spectacular mountain views and loads of alternatives for scenic stops.
- Sella Cross: Drive via this breathtaking cross for gorgeous views of the Sella Group and surrounding peaks.
- Gardena Cross: One other lovely cross connecting Val Gardena and Val Badia, providing panoramic views and wonderful photograph alternatives.
Are there any toll roads within the Dolomites?
Whereas there aren’t many toll roads particularly within the Dolomites, you would possibly encounter tolls on main highways main into the area. Be ready with money or a bank card for comfort. As an example, in the event you’re driving from Venice or Milan, you’ll use toll roads.
What sort of automotive do you have to use to your street journey?
For a Dolomites street journey, it’s finest to make use of a automotive that handles properly on mountainous and winding roads. A compact SUV or a mid-size automotive with good gas effectivity and dependable efficiency on steep inclines and sharp turns is good. In the course of the winter months, make sure that your car is provided with winter tires or snow chains, as roads could be icy and snowy.