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12 Day Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites - Adventures in Val Gardena and Cortina d'Ampezzo

  • Writer: Alexandra Spacavento
    Alexandra Spacavento
  • Jul 30, 2024
  • 19 min read

Updated: Aug 14, 2024

This is Part II of the Northern Italy Itinerary Series... Peek Part I for Adventures in Venice, The Prosecco Hills and Lake Garda!

Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites

Welcome back, fellow adventurers!

Prepare to lace up your hiking boots and breathe in the crisp mountain air as we embark on the second leg of our Northern Italian journey. If you've been following along, you've already experienced the romantic canals of Venice, sipped sparkling wines in the rolling Prosecco Hills, and basked in the serene beauty of Lake Garda in Part I of our adventure. Now, we're trading waterways for mountain trails as we ascend into the majestic Dolomites. This post will guide you through our exhilarating experiences in this UNESCO World Heritage site, focusing on the breathtaking regions of Val Gardena and Cortina d'Ampezzo.


Day 5: From Lake Garda to Val Gardena

Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites
Chiesa di Santa Maddalena

Our journey into the Dolomites began with an early departure from the serene shores of Riva del Garda. As we wound our way through the changing landscape, anticipation built for the alpine wonders awaiting us.


Our first stop, just about 2 hours from Riva del Garda, was the enchanting Ladin village of Santa Maddalena. Here, we were immediately captivated by the Chiesa di Santa Maddalena, its exterior walls adorned with intricate frescoes that tell stories of faith and history. The church's picturesque setting against the backdrop of jagged Dolomite peaks provided a perfect introduction to the region's breathtaking beauty.


Continuing our scenic drive, we arrived at St. Johann in Ranui. The historic Johanniskirche, with its famously leaning tower, stood as a testament to time amidst the mountain panorama. We couldn't resist capturing photos from multiple viewpoints (viewpoint 1 & viewpoint 2), each offering a unique perspective of this architectural gem nestled in nature's grandeur.


Next, we ventured into the village of Val di Funes, a postcard-perfect locale that seemed plucked from a fairy

tale. Traditional wooden houses dotted the landscape, their rustic charm contrasting beautifully with the towering mountains behind them. Every turn offered a new, Instagram-worthy vista.


Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites
Gelato in Ortisei

1:30 pm: We paused our explorations for a much-anticipated lunch at Restaurant Fines. Here, we savored local specialties, such as an assortment of dumplings and lamb ragu pasta. Post-lunch, we took time to meander through the village shops, each offering a glimpse into local craftsmanship and traditions.


3:00 pm: After a day of scenic drives and village exploration, we finally arrived at our hotel. As we unpacked and settled into our cozy room, the stunning mountain views from our balcony immediately captivated us. Once settled, we decided to make the most of the remaining afternoon. A quick 10-minute drive brought us to the charming town of Ortisei. The town's vibrant atmosphere, with its mix of locals and fellow travelers, provided a perfect introduction to the culture of Val Gardena.


Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites
A view from our balcony at Hotel Dorfhotel Beludei

Where to stay/eat in Val Gardena:

We struck gold with our choice of accommodation - Hotel Dorfhotel Beludei. This place quickly became our cozy mountain haven, and I can't help but rave about it. Nestled in Santa Cristina, the hotel's location is perfect for exploring the Dolomites. Each morning, we'd step onto our balcony and be greeted by breathtaking mountain vistas - talk about a wake-up call! After our daily adventures, coming back to Dorfhotel Beludei felt like returning home. The wellness area became our go-to spot for post-hike relaxation.


We opted for the half-board option, which I highly recommend for anyone planning to spend their days hiking. Note to reader: If you choose the half-board option (meaning that you eat a prefix dinner at the hotel) you have to commit to eat at the hotel every night of your stay. Mornings began with a mind-blowing breakfast spread - an array of pastries, meats, cheeses, a fresh juicing bar, and made-to-order omelets. It was the perfect fuel for our adventures. Before heading out, we'd select our first, second, and third courses for that evening's dinner. This system was brilliant - after a long day of hiking, it was a relief to return "home" knowing a delicious meal awaited us.


A word to the reader before talking about hiking...

Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites

I must admit, planning this itinerary was an unprecedented challenge for me. The intricacies of connecting various hiking trails, ensuring we didn't miss any key attractions, and carefully timing our return to the lifts before they ceased operations proved to be quite an undertaking. Especially because we chose to do individual day hikes rather than a continuous backpacking journey from one mountain hut to another. Even though I had every day mapped out, all of our plans changed once we spoke to the hotel managers about their recommended hikes. I still was able to hit all the hotspots I had on my list, but be they helped us to map out hikes that were more challenging, exciting and off the beaten path. So, if you're new to the Dolomites and you choose to do hikes aside from the ones I recommend, show your plans to the receptionist of the hotel where you stay- they can help!


Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites

A few things to know:

  • What to pack! The weather in the Dolomites can be very unpredictable so I suggest having the following with you each day you hike:

    • Small hiking backpack (I carried the Athleta Excursion backpack and my husband the Osprey Daylite backpack).

    • Clothing layers that you can shed and layer as needed. On our hikes weather range from 50°F- 75°F with varying sun exposure.

    • Waterproof hiking shoes (I wore my On Cloud Cloud Wanders- I don't like the feeling of the ankle support).

    • Rain Gear

    • Lightweight refillable water bottle

    • Poles (optional- we didn't carry them but most others on the trails did)

    • Spare socks


Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites
  • Check the weather! Some hikes are not safe after a lot of rain, so it is always a good idea to check with the hotel reception about impending weather. Show them the hike you have planned and they will let you know if they think it is safe. Most employees are born and raised in the Dolomites and hike in their free-time, they can give you really valuable feedback.

  • Dolomite Super Summer Pass! There are a couple options when buying the super summer pass, which you can explore here. I chose the 5 out of 7 Days Super Summer Pass. The way the pass works is unlimited chairlift, gondola and suspended train for 5 days within a 7 day period at any location in the Dolomites. I knew which days that I would be hiking ahead of time so it worked out perfect! I also really like this option because there are many mountain restaurants and wineries in both Val Gardena and Cortina which you can access with your pass (as long as it is one of those 5 days you planned for hiking). If you don't plan to hike much or visit the mountain huts, you might want to just buy points which you can load onto your card for passage. You can purchase your ticket ahead of time at this website.

    • Retrieving the passes: At every lift sight there are ticket retrieval kiosks. On your first day of hiking get to the lift a little bit earlier, go to the kiosk, scan the QR code on your receipt from purchase and it will print your card.

Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites
  • Dont miss the Lift! The lifts in Val Gardena stop running at 6:00 pm (In Cortina they stop even earlier at 4:00 pm)- meaning that if you are caught in the mountains past lift operation you're walking all the way down.

  • Reading the Trails: Each trail in the Dolomites is assigned a unique number. On the physical trail maps, which you can get at hotel reception, the numbered trails are clearly marked. Before setting out, use your map to plan your hike. You can literally highlight the trail numbers you intend to follow, creating a visual guide of your route. Throughout the mountains, you'll find wooden signposts at trail intersections and key points. These signs display the trail numbers, often with destinations and estimated hiking times. As you hike, simply follow the numbers on your highlighted route. At each intersection, check the signposts for your next trail number. Note the reader: The little x's on the map indicate needing additional equipment to climb and a dotted like indicates a steep accent or descent.

  • Download All Trails: While physical maps are essential, I highly recommend downloading the AllTrails app, here is why:

    • Offline Access: Before your trip, download the trails you plan to hike. This allows you to access detailed trail information even without cell service, which can be spotty in the mountains.

    • Real-Time GPS Tracking: The app uses your phone's GPS to show your exact location on the trail map, even in offline mode. This feature was a game-changer for us, providing an extra layer of confidence in our navigation.

    • Recording Your Hikes: You can record your hikes, creating a digital log of your Dolomites adventures complete with stats like distance, elevation gain, and time.

  • Parking: You can park at the lift. The earlier you are, the easier parking is and if you can park in the outside lot its much cheaper, if not free. Lifts do not start running until 8:30am- I recommend planning to be at the lift by then.

  • Rifugio Stops: You not not have to plan rifugio stops (unless there is one in particular you want to see) because you stumble across many on whatever path you take. Its good to know where they are so you can plan bathroom and food/drink stops - but there is no need to make reservations or plan ahead.

  • Get a dolomite passport book! Every rifugio has its own stamp so you can mark your book with each of your stops. I got mine at a local book store, but some rifugios sell them as well.


Day 6: Seceda to the Adolf Munkel Trail + Geisler Alm

(10 miles | 3,000 ft Elevation | Approx. 5 hours)


All Trails Link - Please disregard the break in the middle of the hike, I forgot to restart the navigation...oops!

Physical Map- Trail highlighted in pink and reinforced with back arrows.


Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites

Hike Description:

For the adventurous hiker seeking a true Dolomites experience, this trail offers an exhilarating challenge. It's not suited for families or casual walkers, but for those in good physical condition, it's an unforgettable journey. The trail features intense climbs and steep descents, with a few sections where metal ropes provide welcome support. While these parts might seem daunting on the map, no special equipment is needed - just a steady foot and a head for heights.


Now, let me tell you why this was my favorite hike of the trip. Every twist of the trail unveils new, breathtaking vistas and varied terrain. You'll conquer rocky ascents, stroll through serene alpine meadows (where you might encounter some furry local residents), and be rewarded with stunning 360-degree panoramas at nearly every turn. Due to its demanding nature, this trail sees fewer tourists, offering a sense of solitude that's rare in such a popular region. The peace and quiet, combined with the physical challenge and the sheer beauty of the landscapes, make this hike incredibly rewarding.

Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites
Lunch at Geisler Alm

Directions:

  • Start: Park at the Furnes-Seceda lot and take the lift to Seceda's summit (bypass the Furnes stop).

  • Initial Trail:

    • Follow trail 6 briefly until you reach an intersection.

    • Switch to trail 2B and continue for about 2 miles.

  • The Climb:

    • At the base of a steep ascent, look for trail 29.

    • Follow 29 up and over the mountain (approx. 1.5 miles).

    • Note to reader: Let's be real - this climb is no joke! It's tough, but trust me, the view at the top is absolutely jaw-dropping. Don't freak out about those x's and dotted lines on the map. Yeah, it gets a bit tricky in spots, but you won't need any fancy climbing gear. When we reached the summit, we settled in for an impromptu picnic, spreading out a small blanket and enjoying our simple fare of cured meats, cheeses, and crackers. We savored each bite while taking in the breathtaking 360-degree views of the Dolomites.

  • Geisler Alm Rifugio:

    • After descending, at the next intersection, take trail 35, then 34. This 1-mile out-and-back section leads to the Instagram-famous rifugio.

    • Enjoy lunch and refreshments at the rifugio.

  • Return Journey along the Adolf Munkel Trail:

    • Retrace your steps to the previous intersection.

    • Follow trail 35 for about 5 miles to the Funicolare Resciesa (suspended train lift) which runs every 15 min.

    • Take the lift down to Ortisei.

    • Short walk through town back to your parking spot.


Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites

Post Hike:

After our ambitious 10-mile trek, we found ourselves pleasantly exhausted. Our unexpected reward awaited at the top of the Funicolare - a welcoming rifugio where we indulged in well-earned beers and a sweet treat. The descent into Ortisei offered a chance for a gentle stroll and a shared gelato, a perfect closure to our mountain adventure.


Back at our hotel, we embraced what had become our cherished post-hike ritual. The rooftop jacuzzi beckoned, and we answered its call, easing our tired muscles while sipping Prosecco and marveling at the alpine panorama.





Day 7: Lago di Carezza & Alpe di Susi Meadow Walk

Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites
Lago di Carezza

Visiting Lago di Carezza:

Renowned for its crystal-clear blue waters, vibrant hues, and stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains, this lake is a must-see attraction for visitors to the Dolomites. This lake is a tourist hot spot due to its accessibility by car and leisurely walk around its perimeter. It is definitely worth seeing but there a few things to keep in mind:

  • Leave as early as possible! The lot fills up quick and there is always unexpected traffic on the one lane road down the mountain.

  • Take the longer route through Ortisei. We chose the shorter route (by 10 min according to the GPS) and there were about 100 switchbacks to get down the mountain. I was sick to my stomach the rest of the day.

  • Take motion sickness medicine for the ride. The ride through Ortisei is better but there are still quite a few switchbacks. It is smart to take some medicine before getting in the car if you get at all motion sick.


Alpe di Susi Hike: Set on the largest high-altitude Alpine meadow in Europe, Alpe di Susi offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding Dolomites, lush pastures, and charming wooden huts. The hike typically starts from the village of Ortisei where you can take a gondola up to the Alpe di Susi plateau. From there, a network of well-marked trails crisscrosses the meadow, allowing for various route options depending on your desired length and difficulty. Depending on your chosen route and pace, the hike can take anywhere from 1.5 to 4 hours.

Physical Map- I highlighted this trail in pink.

Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites

Directions:

  • Take the Alpe di Susi - Seiser Alm chairlift up to the Mont Seuc rifugio.

  • Follow trail 9 for approximately 2 miles until you reach the Saltria rifugio. Feel free to stop here for a refreshing shot of grappa!

  • From Saltria you will take trail 30 until you meet a crossroad where you will switch over to trail 6.

  • Here you have a bunch of options :

    • Option 1: Follow Trail 6 all the way back to the chairlift.

    • Option 2: After walking a short distance on Trail 6, switch to Trail 6B to visit the renowned Sanon Rifugio. Here, you can capture a memorable photo on the swing with a stunning backdrop before returning to the chairlift.

    • Option 3: For a longer hike with additional rifugio stops, switch to Trail 3 for a brief stretch, then transition to Trail 6A to guide you back to the chairlift.

Day 8: Santa Christina to Col Raiser to Stevia Mountain Hut Loop

(12 Miles | 3,300 ft Elevation | Approx. 5.5 hours)

Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites

All Trails Link- Please note that we walked to the lift from the hotel and all the way down the mountain back to the hotel at the end of the hike.


Physical Map: Trail highlighted in pink and reinforced with back arrows.


Hike Description: This hike is considerably more challenging than the first. I'll be frank: the seemingly endless vertical incline nearly brought me to tears. But isn't that what adventurous travel is all about—pushing your limits? We deliberately saved this hike for our last day in Val Gardena. Our strategy was to familiarize ourselves with the area, enjoy a recovery day in Alpe di Siusi, and approach this formidable trek with confidence. Like the Seceda hike, this loop offers a diverse array of sights, landscapes, and charming rifugios. As we ascended, we encountered a family of horses grazing peacefully against the backdrop of majestic mountains. For animal lovers like Nick and me, such unexpected encounters with wildlife—be it an unassuming donkey or a stately horse—elevated our hiking experience tenfold. Despite its intensity, the breathtaking views and serene moments make every step worthwhile.


Directions:

Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites
  1. Start: From the hotel, head to the Col Raiser lift. Consider driving if possible. If using public transport, take the bus from town to the stop near the lift (about a 15-minute moderate walk from the stop to the lift).

  2. At the top of the lift, follow Trail 4 for approximately 0.5 miles until you reach the Firenze Regensburger rifugio.

  3. At the rifugio, switch to Trail 2 and continue for about 2 miles. You'll encounter two peaks with challenging ascents:

    1. First peak: Overlooks a scenic valley.

    2. Second peak: Offers a 360-degree view atop a mountain plateau.

  4. At the Furcela de Forces de Sieles crossroad, turn onto Trail 17. Follow this for approximately 4 miles until you pass under the Col Raiser Lift.

  5. After passing under the lift, transition to Trail 1. This will lead you to a paved road circling the town.

  6. Once on Trail 1, you can use GPS to navigate back to the hotel, as you'll be on drivable roads.


Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites

Post Hike: Our final evening in Val Gardena was bittersweet. While we felt a pang of sadness leaving this breathtaking place and the hotel that had become our home away from home, we also buzzed with anticipation for the adventures awaiting us in Cortina. We savored our last night with a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence: sipping Prosecco by the hot tub, rejuvenating in the sauna, and enjoying aperitivo drinks on the deck as the sun set. It was a fitting farewell to a memorable stay, setting the stage for the next chapter of our journey


Ciao Val Gardena!



Day 9: Lago di Braies on the Road to Cortina d'Ampezzo

Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites

7:30 AM: Breakfast and Hotel Checkout


8:30 AM: Lago di Braies. We drove about 2 hours from Val Gardena to the lake arriving around 10:30 AM. While it's undoubtedly a must-see destination, its popularity means early arrival is key to fully appreciate its beauty. I had considered staying at the lakeside hotel to capture the famed sunrise and sunset, but in retrospect, I'm glad I didn't. A day trip with a leisurely stroll around the lake suffices for most visitors. That said, my preference for less crowded spots might color this view - I tend to have limited patience for tourist hotspots. A few things to know before you go:

  • Buy Parking Ahead of Time! Lago di Braies is part of a protected national park, and access is strictly regulated. Visitors must purchase a parking pass in advance to enter the area by car. We learned this the hard way, as we were turned away at the entrance without proper documentation. After a frustrating detour to the information station, we were simply given a QR code to buy the pass online. Buy your pass here.

  • Park in Lot 4: There will be a few parking lot options, make sure to choose lot 4. This is the one closest to the lake if you just plan to visit for a couple hours and head out.

  • Enjoy the Lake! Grab a coffee or gelato and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the entrance to the lake. For an unforgettable experience, rent a canoe on a clear day and take in the stunning views from the water. Although rain kept us from paddling, this activity comes highly recommended when the weather is favorable. If you're up for a bit of adventure, tackle the 2.3-mile loop around the lake—a moderate hike that offers beautiful vantage points and a comprehensive view of the area.

Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites

12:00 PM: Hotel Check-In. We drove about 1 hour from Lago di Braies to Cortina. Before exploring the town, we stopped at the hotel, Camina Suite & Spa, to drop off our luggage and start the check in process. Our rooms weren't ready but they were kind enough to hold our bags until they were. A note about the hotel... it is a gorgeous facility but it is situated on a pretty busy road. We often had a hard time falling asleep because of the noise.


1:30 PM: Explore Cortina d'Ampezzo.

Nick and I explored the town for hours, indulging in both window shopping and actual purchases. It's an ideal spot for finding unique gifts to bring back home to family. We savored several beers and spritzes along the way, discovering a few local haunts that became our regular stops during our stay. Our favorite was Hacker Pschorr, which had an authentic local atmosphere. Along the way we treated ourselves to an unforgettable pasta-filled lunch at Ariston, the perfect end to our day of discovery.


7:30 PM: Dinner at the Hotel. We opted for the half-board option again, which, in hindsight, was a bit of a mistake. With so many incredible restaurants in Cortina, we felt we missed out by dining at the hotel each night, particularly since Camina's menu didn’t change much. Below, I’ll share some of my top restaurant recommendations so you can enjoy the best of what the area has to offer.


A quick word to the reader...

Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites
Somewhere Along the Campo Croce Loop (Day 10)

Val Gardena and Cortina d'Ampezzo each offer unique experiences despite their shared stunning landscapes. Val Gardena is known for its rugged, adventurous hikes and authentic alpine charm, with a notable German-Austrian influence reflected in its cuisine and culture. In contrast, Cortina d'Ampezzo exudes elegance and sophistication, with high-end boutiques and Italian flair, particularly evident in its refined dining and stylish atmosphere. While both destinations boast breathtaking scenery, Val Gardena caters to those seeking a more rugged adventure, while Cortina offers a chic and luxurious alpine retreat. Here are a couple things to note while in Cortina:


  • Download the Easy Park App! This app is so great. It covers all local parking lots and allows real-time adjustments to your stay. Whether you need to cut your visit short or extend it, you can easily modify your reservation right from your phone.

  • Where to eat:

    • Il Vizietto di Cortina: A cozy spot with a creative twist on Italian classics. Think fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and amazing desserts. Their wine selection is top-notch too!

    • El Camineto: Offers upscale dining with breathtaking Dolomite views. Their refined menu features high-quality local ingredients, making it perfect for a special night out.

    • La Tavernetta: All about rustic charm and hearty Italian dishes. From homemade pasta to grilled meats, it's the ideal place for a casual yet delicious meal.

    • Dolom'Eats: Dolom'Eats combines fresh, local ingredients with innovative cooking. The stylish interior and friendly vibe make it a must-visit for a taste of the Dolomites' best.

    • 5 Torri: Enjoy traditional comfort food like hearty soups, great pizza and rich pasta dishes.


Day 10: Ra Stua to Campo Croce Loop

(14.5 Miles | 4,000 ft Elevation | Approx. 5.5 hours)


Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites
Rifugio Biella

Hike Description: This loop is a challenging yet accessible hike in the heart of the Dolomites. It offers a full day of adventure without extreme ascents or descents. Starting from the picturesque Ra Stua refuge, the path winds through lush alpine meadows, alive with colorful wildflowers in the warmer months. As you progress, the landscape transforms dramatically, leading you into a realm of imposing limestone formations and rocky terrain typical of the Dolomites. The trail skirts the base of the towering Croda Rossa mountain, providing breathtaking views of its rugged face. Near Campo Croce, hikers are rewarded with panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks, including the distinctive silhouette of Tre Cime di Lavaredo in the distance. While challenging due to its length and varied terrain, the hike maintains a steady difficulty level throughout, making it suitable for fit and experienced hikers looking for a substantial but not overly technical route.


All Trails Link- Most will park at Parcheggio Sant' Uberto. We started a little lower down because we found street parking.

Physical Map- I highlighted this trail in pink. I circled the parking lot in blue.


Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites

Hike Directions:

  • Start at Parcheggio Sant'Uberto or arrive early to park for free just outside the entrance.

  • Begin your hike on Trail 6, covering approximately 5 km (3 miles) to the base of the loop. Midway, you'll pass Malga Ra Stua - consider stopping here on your return journey.

  • For a challenging start, take Trail 26 from Campo Croce. This steeper ascent covers about 5 km (3 miles) to Rifugio Biella. Enjoy lunch and refreshments here.

    • Optional: From Rifugio Biella, hike an additional 500 meters to Croda Del Becco overlook (marked in blue on the map). This is an out-and-back detour.

  • Post-lunch, follow Trail 6 for about 3.2 km (2 miles) to Rifugio Sennes, then another 3.2 km (2 miles) to Rifugio Fodara Vedla.

  • At Rifugio Fodara Vedla, turn onto Trail 9 and hike 3.2 km (2 miles) back to the Campo Croce base.

  • Complete your loop by retracing your steps on Trail 6 for 5 km (3 miles) to the parking lot. Consider your planned stop at Malga Ra Stua during this final stretch.


Day 11: Lago Di Sorapis & Masi Wine Bar

(7.31 Miles | 1,526 ft Elevation | Approx. 3 hours)


Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites

Physical Map-  I highlighted this trail in pink. I circled the parking lot in blue.


Hike Description: The Lago di Sorapis hike, though popular, is truly worth the hype. I highly recommend it as an early morning activity. Starting early is crucial - aim to begin no later than 7:30 AM. The trail is consistently steep, narrow, and can be dangerous when wet, especially with heavy foot traffic. An early start allows you to enjoy the ascent peacefully and navigate the descent more safely. In retrospect, I'd aim for a 6:30 AM trailhead arrival to avoid the crowds we met coming down. This hike offers a memorable Dolomites experience, but timing is key. Start early, and you'll be rewarded with stunning views and a safer, more enjoyable journey.


Hiking Directions: The directions for this hike are very simple as it is an out and back hike. You will park at Passo Tre Croci and follow Trail 215 all the way up to the lake and then back to the parking lot. We sat for coffee at Rifugio Vandelli before heading back down the mountain.


Post Hike Plans:

Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites
  • Take the Freccia nel Cielo Cable Car! This impressive lift system involves three gondola changes, each offering unique vistas. We ascended to the summit of Cima Tofana, a staggering 3,244 meters high. At the top, we were greeted by 360-degree panoramic views of the Dolomites and a conveniently located bar for refreshments. The terrace provided an ideal spot for soaking in the scenery, though the rapidly changing weather soon demonstrated our lofty altitude - as clouds rolled in, visibility dropped to zero. The descent was equally spectacular. At Ra Valles, we paused to watch the cable cars vanish into the clouds - a truly surreal sight.

  •  Masi Wine Bar for lunch! We indulged in local wine and a delicious meal against the backdrop of the majestic mountains. The menu offered an educational touch, introducing us to Masi's expertise in the ancient appassimento winemaking technique. This method, dating back to Roman times, involves partially dehydrating grapes to intensify flavors, aromas, and colors. Intrigued by this centuries-old process, we selected one of the appassimento wines to complement our lunch.

  • Explore the Col Druscie Observatory. just steps away from the wine bar, which sits along the Col Druscie Astro Ring a short natural trail before heading back down to Cortina.


Northern Italy Itinerary | Conquering the Dolomites

Other options for an afternoon excursion:

  • Visit the Three Peaks of Lavaredo & Lago di Misurina- These jagged mountain peaks offer stunning views and popular hiking loop. Nearby, Lago di Misurina is a picturesque alpine lake known for its serene beauty and reflective waters, often called the "Pearl of the Dolomites".

  • Visit the World War I Tunnels- The Dolomites were a significant battleground during World War I, and many remnants of this history remain. The tunnels, known as Gallerie del Lagazuoi, were dug by Italian and Austro-Hungarian troops.

  • E-bike tour


Day 12: Arrivederci Italia!

As the sun rises on our final day, it's with a mix of gratitude and wistfulness that we bid you goodbye, majestic Dolomites. Your towering peaks, verdant valleys, and crystal-clear lakes have captivated us, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and countless memories in our minds. The two-hour drive to Venice airport will be a journey of reflection, our minds replaying the highlights of our adventure - the exhilarating hikes, the charming mountain villages, and the warm hospitality we've encountered.




Until The Next Adventure... Keep Wandering!


If you have any questions or would just like to connect about travel, drop a message on my "Get In Touch" page. I love to hear from my audeince! While you're there make sure to subscribe to my website so you will receive newsletters announcing new posts and exclusive content!

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