Spot the best hotels near Dolomites

The Dolomites mountain range in northern Italy offers some of the most striking limestone peaks and alpine meadows you could ever hope to wander through. These jagged summits, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, turn a soft shade of pink as the sun sets, creating a natural light show that beats any television screen. You can spend your days hiking along trails that stretch for over 1864 miles or simply finding a quiet spot to breathe in the crisp mountain air. It is a place where the scenery does all the hard work, leaving you with nothing to do but enjoy the massive scale of the great outdoors.

Exploring this mountainous region in northern Italy requires a bit of planning, especially if you want to see the jagged peaks during the quieter months. You should pack layers regardless of the season, as the weather can change within 30 minutes when you are high up in the clouds.

Planning your mountain adventure

While the mountains themselves are free to explore, some specific areas and roads require a toll. If you drive to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, a vehicle fee applies to use the private road. Many hikers use the local lift systems, which usually run from 9:00–17:00 during the summer season to reach higher elevations quickly.

Parking at popular trailheads can fill up by 8:00, so arriving early is a good idea. Please check the official site for up-to-date information regarding seasonal opening dates, lift schedules, and ticket availability.

Things to do in the fresh air

You can find trails for every skill level, ranging from flat 1 mile walks around alpine lakes to intense 10-hour treks across high-altitude passes. For those who enjoy a challenge, the via ferrata routes offer a way to climb using fixed cables and ladders, provided you have the right safety gear and no fear of heights.

In the winter, the focus shifts to skiing and snowshoeing across the vast interconnected slopes. Cycling is also popular, with many enthusiasts tackling the steep winding roads that cover distances of over 62 miles through various mountain passes.

Unique sights in the landscape

This range is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique pale rock, which glows with a pinkish hue at sunset. You will find jagged spires like the Cinque Torri and the vast high-altitude meadow of Alpe di Siusi, which spans over 19 square miles.

The area is also home to deep blue waters, such as Lago di Braies, where a circular walking path takes about 1 hour to complete. The landscape changes completely between the snowy winter months and the lush green summer, offering a different perspective of the cliffs and valleys throughout the year.

Many scenic routes connect you directly to the heart of the Italian Alps, ensuring that the Dolomites remain a highly accessible destination. Once you arrive, you will find a wealth of places to stay nestled right among the famous peaks.

Where to stay near the mountains

If you want to be right in the middle of the action, Cortina d'Ampezzo is a fantastic choice with its mix of high-end boutique hotels and traditional chalets. For those travelling with kids, Val Gardena offers many family-friendly resorts and is just 0 miles from several major ski lifts. If you prefer a quieter vibe, look for stays in Alta Badia, where you can find cosy guesthouses and high-quality apartments often featuring a sauna or heated pool. These areas are perfect because they put you within 1 mile of the main hiking trails and cable cars, making it simple to start your outdoor adventure every morning.

Getting to the peaks

You can catch a train from Venice Mestre Station or Verona Porta Nuova, with the journey taking roughly 2 to 3 hours depending on your final village. If you fly into Bolzano Airport, you are only 19 miles away from the nearest slopes, and frequent shuttle buses run throughout the day. Renting a car is another great option, allowing you to navigate the winding roads at your own pace while enjoying the scenery of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Your ideal stay near the Dolomites is just a few clicks away with eDreams. We make it simple to evaluate different hotels based on your specific needs so you can spot the best deals. Choose a hotel that fits your plans and start your mountain getaway with confidence.