The Dolomites offer a variety of breathtaking landscapes and charming villages to explore. Here’s a suggested road trip route around the Dolomites.
Starting Point: Bolzano, Italy
Day 1: Bolzano
Begin your journey in Bolzano, a picturesque town in the South Tyrol region. Explore the historic centre, visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, and enjoy local cuisine at a traditional trattoria.
Day 2: Val Gardena
Head to Val Gardena, a beautiful valley surrounded by stunning peaks. Take a cable car to Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest alpine plateau, for hiking or enjoy the views. Explore the Ortisei, Selva, and Santa Cristina villages, known for their woodcarving traditions.
Day 3: Cortina d’Ampezzo
Drive to Cortina d’Ampezzo, a famous ski resort town. Enjoy the scenic drive through mountain passes like Passo Gardena and Passo Pordoi. Explore Cortina’s boutiques and restaurants, and take a leisurely walk around Lake Misurina.
Day 4: Tre Cime di Lavaredo
Visit Tre Cime di Lavaredo, one of the most iconic mountain formations in the Dolomites. Hike the loop trail around the Tre Cime for breathtaking views (allow 4-6 hours). Consider a side trip to the charming town of San Candido/Innichen.
Day 5: Alta Badia
Drive to Alta Badia, known for its beautiful landscapes and Ladin culture. Explore the charming villages of Corvara, Colfosco, and La Villa. Consider taking the cable car to Piz Boè for panoramic views.
Day 6: Val di Fassa
Head to Val di Fassa, a valley surrounded by dramatic peaks. Visit Canazei and take the cable car to Belvedere for incredible views. Explore the Ladin Museum in Vigo di Fassa to learn about the local culture.
Day 7: Bolzano (Return)
Drive back to Bolzano to conclude your road trip. If time allows, you can explore any sites or attractions you missed on the first day.
This route provides a fantastic overview of the Dolomites’ beauty and diversity. It’s important to note that the Dolomites offer many hiking and outdoor activities, so feel free to adjust the itinerary based on your interests and available time. Additionally, check weather conditions and trail accessibility before embarking on hikes, as they can vary depending on the season. Enjoy your Dolomites road trip!