The Best Summer Hikes in the Dolomites

Best Summer Hikes In The Dolomites

The Dolomites (Dolomiti) are a mountain range in northeast Italy. Part of the Italian Alps, the Dolomites are a volcanic range mostly consisting of limestone rock. It is one of the world’s most dramatic and beautiful mountain ranges. Often considered the gem of Europe, these mountains have loads of character.

Centered around Cortina D’Ampezzo, this region is a hiking and mountain biking haven in the summer, and a popular ski destination in the winter. Our favorite time to visit is during the summer to enjoy the best hikes in the Dolomites. Read all about our favorite hikes below!

Best Hikes in the Dolomites

Content and photographs provided by Yana Kogan and Timon.

Don’t forget to check out our web story: Best Summer Hikes In The Dolomites

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).


History of the Italian Dolomites

The Dolomites have a significant history, as this region was the location of many front-line battles during the First World War between the Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces. Rough terrain and challenging passes were explored and/or dugout during this time which created the Via Ferrata hiking routes.

For more on the history of the Dolomites, check out www.dolomites.org.

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Hiking in the Dolomites

Hiking Dolomites: Ferrata Section
Via Ferrata Section of a Hike

There is no backcountry/tent camping allowed in the Dolomites, but there are many Rifugio’s (huts). Rifugios often sell beer and food, and with a prior booking, they have dormitory-style rooms. They usually need you to bring a sleeping bag.

There are many hikes in the Dolomites. From famous hikes (Tre Cime) to famous lakes (Lago di Sorapis) or hikes with solitude, the Dolomites have some of the best hiking in Europe.


Where to Stay in the Dolomites

Dolomites Hiking Trails: Rifugio Locatelli
Rifugio Locatelli

Cortina d’Ampezzo is a great central place to stay. While there are other towns and regions to explore, this area has some of the best hikes and has a range of accommodations. Check out the map of available properties below:

Booking.com

Hiking the Via Ferrata Routes

Walking in the Dolomites

Located all throughout the alps are the famous Via Ferrata routes. They often were dug out and created by the Italian or Austrian military front lines during WWI. These routes are protected climbing routes, often with steel cables fixed to the rock.

It is recommended for advanced/expert hikers only on certain routes as they require proper gear, so be sure to know the difficulty of each route before you go.


Best Hikes in the Dolomites

Lago di Sorapis

Best Hikes in the Dolomites: Lake Sorapis
Lake Sorapis

Lake Sorapis is an incredible day hike that is challenging but rewards you with the stunning view of Lake Sorapis’ emerald green colors. This beauty sits high in the mountains and requires some easy Via Ferrata route (no harnesses required) to complete.

This is not just our favorite hike in the Dolomites, but our favorite in Europe. This charming lake is unlike anything else we have seen and one of the most memorable hikes we have ever done. Don’t miss it when visiting the Dolomites!

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Tre Cime de Lavaredo

Dolomites Hiking Trails

The best-known landmark in the Dolomites is Tre Cime de Lavaredo and for good reason. These three distinct rocks protruding from the ground are best viewed by Rifugio Locatelli. There is an easy (and crowded) loop trail (trail 101) to reach the rifugio. But we recommend a longer more challenging hike.

The hike to Pian di Cengia on trail 104 is a longer loop hike over several mountain passes and through scenic valleys. There are several stunning alpine lakes, and the end of the hike loops to Rifugio Locatelli, so you don’t miss out on Tre Cime!

That’s it – we hope you enjoy the best hikes in the Dolomites!


Planning a trip to Italy? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!


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About the Author:

  • Yana and Timon

    Yana & Timon met at college in Boston, Massachusetts. After graduating, they started their professional careers. They moved to San Francisco in 2010, a city they loved living in for nearly six years.

    After working and saving up money for several years, they quit their jobs and set off on an adventure of a lifetime. They started living a nomadic lifestyle in December 2015 and have not looked back since.

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