If you’re looking for must-see places for your trip to the Italian Dolomites, look no further! During my recent trip to the Dolomites, I was absolutely blown away by the incredible geography, expansive views, and breathtaking lakes and mountains. Seeing so many photos online, I had high hopes, and those expectations were truly exceeded beyond measure. Throughout the trip, there were five areas that really stood out to me: Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Cadini di Misurina, Seceda, Lago di Carezza, and Lago di Braies. While the beautiful spots are countless, these were my highlights and places everyone should see with their own two eyes when making the trip to the Dolomites. Whether you want a hike ahead of you, or an easy stroll, the Dolomites have so much to offer. Without further ado, let’s dive in!

Tre Cime di Lavaredo
If you’ve spent any time researching the Italian Dolomites, chances are you have already come across some sort of photo or information on the Tre Cime di Lavaredo – and for good reason. With a mixture of incredible scenery, jagged and unique peaks, and picturesque rifugios, this area of the Dolomites truly is a must see. Along with it, many people don’t realize that my second pick, Cadini di Misurina, is accessible from the same parking lot and because the road requires a toll, I highly recommend doing both on the same day. We’ll go over details for Cadini di Misurina in the next section. For now, let’s dive into Tre Cime. If you rent a car and decide to drive, you’ll be heading for the Rifugio Auronzo parking lot which will be your launchpad for both hiking options. If you need an alternative transportation option, there is a bus that runs between Cortina and Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Once you reach the parking lot, you can decide to hike a clockwise or counterclockwise loop around Tre Cime (the iconic three mountains). Most people opt for counterclockwise. Along the way there are two mountain huts, also known as rifugios, that you can stop at for lunch. Rifugio Lavaredo and Rifugio A. Locatelli. I highly recommend experiencing the atmosphere of these huts, chatting with travelers from all around the world, and taking in the scenery. There are also a few beautiful lakes along the route for you to enjoy. You truly cannot go wrong with any aspect of this breathtaking trek!



Cadini di Misurina
As mentioned above, the hike to this viewpoint starts from the Rifugio Auronzo parking lot. There is a trail that heads south off of the southeast end of the parking lot loop. It is a mild 2 mile out and back hike, however, be sure to check the weather and be prepared. It can also be included on a longer, multi-day backpacking trek depending on which refugios you book and what route you wish to take. I personally included this amazing viewpoint as a stop on my thru hike. If it happens to snow, use caution along this trek as it is along a narrow ridge. Another thing to note – go early! If you want to beat the crowds and avoid waiting in line or feeling crowded on trail, be sure to get there early. I recommend doing this hike before continuing onto Tre Cime. The views are absolutely incredible and well-worth the extra little jaunt.



Seceda
This iconic ridge is next on the list, and something I would absolutely recommend seeing in person. Not only is the ridgeline incredible, but the surrounding views are expansive and breathtaking in all directions. You can choose to hike up to the top, which is roughly 5 miles and about 4,000 feet in elevation gain – or you can take the Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda Gondola from Ortisei in Val Gardena (no reservation required). Once you get there, however you choose, there are many different options to explore the area and get different views. There are also rifugios, restaurants and even a playground. Be sure to bring your rain jacket as you will be up in the clouds at a very high altitude and the weather changes quikcly. This stunning area of the Dolomites is a bucket list destination for a reason!



Lago di Carezza
This lake is a great option if you are looking for something easily-accessible near the town of Mazzin. The clear teal blue waters against the dramatic mountain backdrop are, in my opinion, worth the extra little road trip. Visiting this lake during golden hour or first thing in the morning when the reflection is the most clear is highly recommended. The short loop around the lake is family-friendly and wheelchair accessible. There is a small parking fee. I didn’t expect this lake to be my favorite I saw in the Dolomites, but it was!



Lago di Braies
Lake Braies is arguably one of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites, and for that reason, it gets very crowded. Even with the others enjoying the scenery, this place is absolutely worth visiting. If you want to try to beat the crowds, go early of course. There is a trail that loops around the lake giving different views of the incredible water and the mountains surrounding it. If you want to take in the views from the water, you can also rent a wooden boat and explore the lake that way as well. There are also several other hiking options to and around the lake that are much more difficult and longer in duration if you’re looking for a challenge! Please note that if you plan to visit Lago di Braies between July 11-September 11, you will need a reservation unless you go before 9 AM or after 5 PM. The rest of the year no reservations are necessary, but parking is first come first serve. You can also enjoy multiple dining options right at the lake before or after your exploring!



Please note that this area is mountainous and huge! To visit all of these places, I recommend renting a car because you will need to do quite a bit of driving. Factoring in drive times in advance will help you gauge how much time you’ll need for travel between activities. I hope that your travels through these gorgeous landscapes exceed your expectations as much as they exceeded mine. If you have any specific questions, feel free to DM me on Instagram @ponytail_onatrail or drop a comment below. Be on the lookout for more blogs detailing different aspects of our trip through North and Central Italy! And as always, if you’re looking to get stronger + leaner for your hiking adventures to show up with CONFIDENCE, I’m your girl. Join the other hundreds of women who have gone through the Mountain Metabolic Program – apply here to learn more!
Happy + Healthy Trails,
Bradee
Be The First To Comment