Scenic Spots

The Dolomites are full of picturesque mountains, vales and lakes. Or how I like to call it - Instagrammable places.

Unfortunately, this mountain range is becoming increasingly popular and hence, even more overcrowded. That's why I want to help you to avoid unpleasant surprises and unnecessary expenditure in this guide. So you can enjoy your trip (almost) carefree.

Mountains

Seceda

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One of the most scenic viewpoints in the Dolomites! The breathtaking views attract photographers from all around the world. You can either: - Climb to the top (for sure more demanding option, one way: 8km, around 3-4h, 1200m of the elevation gain) - Take a cable car (40 EUR round trip) - Or combine both - so we did. --> Cable car to the middle station (Fumes, round trip, 26 EUR) and then hike up. They let us take the cable car from Seceda to Fumes, and then we went down to the lower station (Komoot).

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Tre Cime di Lavaredo

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The symbol of the Dolomite UNESCO World Heritage ... and consequently one of the most crowded spot in the Dolomites. At least in the high season. That's why, here some helpful information if you want to avoid overpaying. You have to pay for the entrance by car and most likely wait in a traffic jam if you come too late (after 8am). If you're in shape (and even if you don't), you can leave the car at one of the free parking spots and just hike up (1-2 hours depending on your shape) to then enjoy Tre Cime for free. PS For experienced hikers who seek new adventures, there's a beautiful and relatively easy via ferrata nearby. Nevertheless, I strongly advise you against going alone without prior experience. If you would like to know more about via ferratas, feel free to contact me!

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Cadini di Misurina

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Recently it has become one of the most famous viewpoints in the Dolomites seen on Instagram. This spot is still on my bucket list, even though I was so close to it (without even knowing that it exists). If you already reached Tre Cime and found it too crowded, I have one more options for you! This mysterious Instagram spot is actually much closer and easily accesible that you think! And the best part is that you can combine both hikes in one day (if you still don't have enough)

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Lakes

Lago di Braies / Pragser Wildsee

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The natural beauty and scenic location of Lake Braies have made it one of the most photographed and iconic spots in the Dolomites. However, due to its increasing popularity, it's important to respect environmental regulations and local rules to preserve the natural beauty of the area. You can hike around the lake, rent a boat or just chill in the area. Depending on the season, you have to pay for parking and the regulations and prices change year by year.

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Lago di Carezza / Karersee

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Small but enchanting lake, renowned for its turquoise waters. Located close to the main road, you will easily notice when you get there because of crowd of tourists in the high-season. If you want to avoid it, I'd recommend coming there either early in the morning or late in the evening. It's just 40 min drive from Bolzano, thus you can go for a quick ride even when you stay in this city or just stop there for a quick break before heading to the mountains.

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Lago di Sorapis

@olaexploradora

Lake Sorapis is renowned for its striking turquoise waters, which are surrounded by rugged cliffs and the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites. Relatively easy hike, round trip: 12km, 5h in total, 460m of the elevation gain 20 min car ride from Cortina d'Ampezzo

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Mountain Pastures / Almen 

Passo Giau

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You can either make a loop around Ra Gusela (the mountain in the picture) & Cinque Torri. Round trip: 8km in total, around 3-4h (not including breaks), 400m of the elevation gain. Or try something new! There are two easy via ferratas in the area as an alternative to the regular hike (Via Ferrata Nuvolau & Averau). If you're interested in via ferratas, let me know!

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Val di Funes

@olaexploradora

Picturesque alpine valley which you may recognize from the postcards of Dolomites. Perfect spot for photographers and everyone who wants to enjoy this stunning landscape! Put "Santa Magdalena Viewpoint" on Google Maps, that's probably what you are looking for...

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Geisler Alm

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One of the most Instagrammable places in the Dolomites. Leave a car at Parcheggio Malga Zannes, then hike around 1,5h to the mountain chalet. Entrance to the parking lot costs 6 euros (as of 2022). Round trip: 8km in total, 3h, 320m of the elevation gain

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Practical Information

Languages

Italian 🇮🇹, German 🇩🇪, Ladin (but you will get along with English 🇺🇸)

Currency: EUR 💶

You can usually pay by card but have some cash just in case to pay in refuges etc.

Transportation

It is possible to move around using public transport. But I would highly recommend you to rent a car 🚗 You will have complete freedom to discover the area as you want! Of course, if you don't mind driving on mountain roads

Accommodation

There are plenty of campsites to choose from. In the summer I usually decide on sleeping in a tent. Well, if I had to pick another alternative, it would be definitely this one!

Sol & Nef

@olaexploradora

Alpine guesthouse in the heart of Dolomites! The rooms are super cozy and clean, the crew is very friendly, and excellent value for money! (200 EUR per night for 5 people) Suitable for all seasons!

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Parking

There are plenty of free parking spots but be aware that sometimes you will have to pay quite a lot to leave your car (e.g. Tre Cime, Lago di Braises). 

Best time to travel

It's not an easy question... Depending on the type of activity that you're interested in. I personally love to travel in the low season which is spring/autumn in this case. However, be aware that it can be crowded during German/Austrian holidays as well. 

Keep in mind!

These are the most recognizable and in a way Instagrammable spots. However, Dolomites are full of incredible and quite often less crowded places. In my opinion, everyone can find something for themselves. Especially if you're more into outdoors and sports like me!

Hiking, skiing, and many more options...

Travel Consultation Calls ☎️

In case you want to know more, feel free to reach me out!

I'd gladly help you plan your personalized trip!

Have other questions?

Email me: ola.exploradora@gmail.com

[Disclaimer: This consultation call aims to provide travel recommendations and advice. Booking of flights, accommodation, and activities is the responsibility of the traveler.]