
The dramatic views of the Dolomites are some of the most picturesque sites in Italy. Filled with beauty and history, also parts of the mountain range are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The mighty Dolomite Mountains are located in the regions of Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol and Friuli Venezia Giulia in North Eastern Italy.
Although located in Italy, most parts of the Dolomites, like South Tyrol; were once part of Austro-Hungarian Empire until the end of WWI. Most of these areas are actually predominantly German speaking. You will find most towns and places will have a German and an Italian name, Such as Bozen (German) and Bolzano (Italian).
ICONIC MOUNTAIN GROUPS AND PEAKS

•Tre Cime de Lavaredo (Three peaks of Lavaredo)
•Sassolungo
•Tofana massif with Cortina d’Ampezzo in the foreground
•Geisler/Odle mountains
•Sella Group Val Gardena
•Seceda
ACTIVITIES
There are infinite activities in the Dolomites no matter what season.
Winter Month Activities: skiing, snow shoeing, cross country skiing, or ice rock climbing.
Spring- Early Autumn Activities: hiking, cycling, hand gliding, paragliding, mountain climbing and Base Jumping.
*if you’re not big into sports or outdoor activities don’t worry because it really is entertaining enough just to stroll around and admire the beauty of the towns. Again, let’s not forget it is still Italy! Of course there are luxuries shops, cafes, restaurants, and spas in these picturesque towns!
TOWNS TO STAY IN
Sëlva, Val Gardena, or Ortisei are small ski towns situated among iconic mountain ranges. These are great spots for a base. These towns are pretty central to other towns such as Bolzano (Bozen) and Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Another very popular and luxurious famous ski town is Cortina d’Ampezzo. It is also situated in the heart of the Southern Dolomitic Alps. Cortina is one of Italys most luxurious, fashionable, and expensive ski towns. This is probably not the ideal place if you are looking for accommodations more budget friendly. However, The town itself is very much worthy of a day trip!


If you are staying in South Tyrol (Südtirol) you should be given a free week’s bus and train pass. Here are some helpful links below for more information about transportation: https://www.valgardena.it/en/summer-holidays-dolomites/mobility/
If you are arriving into Marco Polo Airport, the Venice Airport, (VCE) there is an Express Bus from the airport to Cortina D’Ampezzo. If you are planning to rent a car for your stay there are car rental companies located in the airport.
**If you want to drive in winter months, especially on the Gardena Passo make sure you ABSOLUTELY HAVE SNOW CHAINS OR WINTER TIRES ON YOUR VEHICLE RENTAL! The roads are winding and are high up. If you are not a confident driver I wouldn’t recommend driving or maybe go during warmer months. The roads and driving get pretty crazy!
I hope this has helped you with your next adventure in Italy. Please feel free to comment or ask questions.
“Travel Safe and Auguri Alla Tua Dolce Vita!”
–-Kristina xox
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