The Dolomites, Italy, are certainly the most impressive mountains in Europe. Young, jagged and imposing, their pale rocks are famous around the world for the pink tone they reflect from the sunset. The Dolomites, considered the friendly face of the Alps, are in a word, impressive. This place is truly an unforgettable place for summer excursions.
The Dolomite mountains are a mountain range part of the Eastern Alps, cataloged as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, and the best place above all to stay in Italy. This range is located in the northeastern part of Italy. Specifically between the regions of Veneto, Trentino Alto Adige, and Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Activity/Place Highlights
Punta Penia
Its attractions include 18 peaks that rise above 3,000 meters, many of them located in the mountainous Marmolada. One of these peaks is Punta Penia, with its 3,342 meters high making it the highest mountain in the Eastern Alps.
Trekking The Dolomites
There is a wide variety of snowshoe routes. You can find few-hour night trips that involve a passage to a mountain refuge. However, for beginners, there are shorter advisable trails.
The Ronda Runch Hut
A great feature of ski resorts is their small systems, and an ideal option is the Ronda Runch Hut, standing directly above the Pedraces. In the walk they offer, you can avoid the uphill climb by going up on the Santa Croce chairlift. You will reach 2045 meters high without sweating.
From the lift station, the path passes through the charming church of Santa Croce. Nearby, you can visit the Rifugio Mountain Refuge and the cafeteria, before heading gently towards the base of high cliffs. In deep snow, the descent falls again, passing through isolated mountain shelters. It’s like a fun combination of hiking and skiing, with panoramic views of the valley. The Ciampani peak stands in the background with its 2668 meters, and the mountains of the Puez Massif can be seen.
Through the Fanes
Italians certainly do most things in style, and their mountain huts are no exception. Any idea of ramshackle, old wooden cabins and freezing in sleeping bags banishes in the epic night journey through the massif of Fanes. An experience that should not be missed. You will also find charming villages, numerous ski slopes, hiking or mountaineering routes, and natural landscapes of incomparable beauty.
Cinque Torri
Among the most famous rock formations of the Dolomites, there are five isolated limestone towers. The Cinque Torri, break the horizon and stand within a short distance from the chairlift. It’s, in fact, an easy place to make snowshoes. With just a quick walk, a hot cup of coffee and lunch, Cinque Torri is the perfect place to enjoy an extraordinary adventure in the winter of Dolomiten.
How to get there
The nearest airports are Venice Treviso, especially for budget European airlines such as Ryanair, and Venice Marco Polo. Verona and Trieste are good options if you are going to Cortina, Pieve or Auronzo. Also, Innsbruck is a good option for San Candido or Innichen.
When to go
To enjoy the most majestic landscapes, visiting the Dolomites in the winter months, from December to February, is the best option. Even though there is high snowfall, the sun still shines most days. Then, skiing and snowboarding during this season are just amazing. Summer (from July to September) are the busiest months; however, the temperatures are warmer and perfect for hiking and climbing. If you go at this time, don’t miss the wildflowers that bring color to the Pale Mountains during September.
Inside Information
You can choose to get around on a rental car or public transport; you will surely get around just fine no matter which you prefer. Also, make sure to check the Cicerone Press guide for routes in the Dolomites.
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