The Dolomites
Jagged pale limestone peaks that glow pink at sunset - a UNESCO mountain wonderland of the northern Alps, for hiking, skiing and sheer drama.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
UNESCO World Heritage
The Dolomites are among the most spectacular mountains in the world, a UNESCO range of jagged, pale limestone towers, sheer walls and pinnacles rising from green alpine meadows in the north of Italy. Famous for the enrosadira, the alpenglow that sets the pale rock blazing pink and orange at sunrise and sunset, they are a paradise for hikers, climbers and skiers.
What you actually see
- The Tre Cime di Lavaredo - the three iconic rock towers, a classic hike.
- The alpenglow - the pale peaks blazing pink at sunrise and sunset.
- The alpine meadows and passes - the green valleys, passes and cable cars.
- Lago di Braies - the emerald lake beneath the peaks, a photographers' favourite.
When to go
Summer, from June to September, for hiking, the passes and the meadows; winter for world-class skiing. The high trails and cable cars run in the warm season; snow closes the passes.
Honest expectations
It is a large region, so it needs a car and several days to explore, with bases in different valleys. The famous spots like Lago di Braies and the Tre Cime are very busy in season. It is serious mountain terrain, so high hikes need care and weather awareness.
Nearby
Bolzano, Cortina d'Ampezzo and the South Tyrol valleys are the bases; the Austrian border is close.
What to pack for The Dolomites
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
