The 10 Best Places to Visit in the Dolomites
The Dolomites have been a personal sanctuary for me, a place where nature's grandeur feels infinite. Every visit unveils new perspectives, and I’ve been fortunate to explore its most enchanting spots.
Why the Dolomites Are Special
The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a masterpiece of nature. Renowned for their dramatic limestone peaks, lush alpine meadows, and shimmering lakes, they offer an unparalleled diversity of landscapes. What makes them especially appealing to photographers is the unique play of light and shadow that changes throughout the day, creating ethereal scenes. The alpenglow—when the peaks are bathed in warm hues at sunrise or sunset—is a phenomenon that leaves one spellbound. The Dolomites’ accessibility, combined with the abundance of rifugios providing warm hospitality, makes them a haven for adventurers and storytellers alike.
Here are my top 10 places to visit in the Dolomites, seen through my lens and heart.
1. Seceda Ridge
Seceda Ridge, located in Val Gardena, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Dolomites. To get there, take the Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda cable car from Ortisei. The ride takes about 20 minutes and provides stunning vistas along the way.
Nearest Rifugio: Rifugio Fermeda, located at an altitude of 2,100 meters, offers hearty meals and half-board accommodations.
Season: Open from June to October and reopens during the winter ski season.
Best Time to Visit: Autumn, when the golden larches create a mesmerizing contrast against the rocky peaks.
2. Passo Giau
Passo Giau is a high-altitude mountain pass situated between Cortina d’Ampezzo and Selva di Cadore. Accessible by car, the winding roads leading to the pass are as scenic as the destination itself.
Nearest Rifugio: Rifugio Passo Giau, located at the summit, provides meals and overnight stays with half-board options.
Season: Open from May to October.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset, as the golden light highlights the surrounding peaks. In winter, it’s ideal for snowshoeing.
3. Cadini di Misurina
The jagged spires of Cadini di Misurina are a must-see for adventurers. Begin your journey at Lago di Misurina, where you can park your car and hike towards the viewpoint.
Trailhead: Starts near Rifugio Auronzo.
Nearest Rifugio: Rifugio Auronzo is open from June to October and serves as an excellent base.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photography.
4. Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks of Lavaredo)
Tre Cime di Lavaredo is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Dolomites. Access it via a toll road from Misurina that leads directly to Rifugio Auronzo.
Trail: A well-marked loop trail circles the peaks around 2 hours walk.
Nearest Rifugio: Rifugio Locatelli, open from June to September, offers meals and overnight stays with incredible views.
Best Time to Visit: Sunrise, when the soft golden light transforms the landscape.
5. St. Magdalena and Chiesetta di San Giovanni, Val di Funes
Val di Funes is home to two iconic landmarks: the St. Magdalena Church and the Chiesetta di San Giovanni. Located about an hour’s drive from Bolzano, these spots are easily accessible by car.
Nearest Rifugio: Rifugio Brogles, located at 2,045 meters, is open from late June to mid-October.
Best Time to Visit: Autumn mornings, when mist blankets the valley, adding a mystical touch.
6. Lago di Sorapis
This turquoise alpine lake is accessible via a 2-hour hike from Passo Tre Croci, located between Cortina d’Ampezzo and Misurina. The trail is moderately challenging and features some rocky sections.
Nearest Rifugio: Rifugio Vandelli, situated near the lake, is open from mid-June to late September.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for serenity, as it tends to get crowded later in the day.
7. Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)
Alpe di Siusi is Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow, offering unparalleled views and tranquility. Take the cable car from Ortisei or Siusi to reach the meadow.
Nearest Rifugio: Rifugio Tirler, located at 1,752 meters, is open year-round.
Best Time to Visit: Sunrise, when the peaks glow in golden light and the meadows are shrouded in ethereal mist.
Special Seasons: Spring and summer for blooming flowers.
8. Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee)
Known as the "Pearl of the Dolomites," Lago di Braies is easily accessible by car. The lake’s parking lot is a short walk from its shores.
Nearest Rifugio: Hotel Lago di Braies offers dining and accommodation.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds.
Trail: A leisurely walk around the lake’s perimeter takes about an hour.
9. Baita Segantini and Passo Rolle with Pale di San Martino
Baita Segantini, located near Passo Rolle, offers one of the most photogenic spots in the Dolomites, with the Pale di San Martino massif reflected in a small pond. To reach Baita Segantini, drive to Passo Rolle and follow the trail, which is about 30 minutes on foot from the parking area.
Nearest Rifugio: Rifugio Capanna Cervino, located at Passo Rolle, is open from late May to early October and provides meals and accommodation.
Season: Summer and early autumn are ideal for hiking, while winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset, when the peaks glow with the warm hues of the alpenglow.
10. Cinque Torri (Five Towers)
Cinque Torri’s unique rock formations are a favorite among climbers and photographers. To reach the site, take the cable car from Bai de Dones.
Nearest Rifugio: Rifugio Scoiattoli offers meals and lodging with panoramic views.
Season: Cable car operates from late June to mid-September.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset, as the towers are bathed in warm, golden light.
Final Thoughts
The Dolomites are more than just a destination; they are an experience. Their natural beauty, combined with rich history and accessibility, makes them a paradise for travelers and photographers alike. Each of these places has left an indelible mark on me, shaping not just my photography but also my perspective on life. While this list highlights some of my all-time favorite spots, there are countless other gems in the Dolomites waiting to be explored. This list is not chronological but rather a collection of personal favorites that I return to time and again.
Which of these places would you like to visit first? Or do you have a favorite spot in the Dolomites that I missed? Share your thoughts in the comments below – I’d love to hear your experiences!
