Attracting millions of visitors annually with their breathtaking views, the Dolomites are a large mountain range located in Northeastern Italy with a majestic appeal. The mountain range is interchangeably known as the Dolomite Mountains or Dolomite Alps and is a popular natural attraction in Europe with many different resort options.
For travelers who want to see some of the world’s most beautiful mountainous scenery, the Dolomites are the perfect destination, with 18 peaks that span 350,000 acres and reach a height of over 10,000 feet. The mountain range also has dramatic rocky heights that lead to green valleys and meadows, which travelers love to explore on foot.
Travelers who visit the Dolomites are guaranteed an unforgettable cultural experience. The unique shapes of the mountains are unlike any other in the world and even have geological significance. The mountain range has two different types of rocks, volcanic and dolomitic, that have been carved into jagged shapes by erosion. With a combination of peaks, towers, steep pinnacles and rock walls, the mountain range is a clear choice for hikers and nature lovers. This Italian destination is a true paradise for those who visit.
UNESCO Site
The Dolomites were included as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009 because of the mountain range’s geological and geomorphic importance. The site has exceptional beauty and diverse landscapes that make it internationally significant.
Where To Stay
Val Gardena
This area is a popular choice for tourists who want to experience the Dolomites in style. Val Gardena has three main towns: Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva di Val Gardena. Selva di Val Gardena is one of the nicest towns in the area and offers travelers lavish five-star hotels that are centrally located. The hotel Granbaita Dolomites is one of the highest-rated accommodations in Selva di Val Gardena. It has a gourmet restaurant, day spa and exquisite suites with fireplaces. And of course, every other amenity a relaxing mountain vacation needs.
Val Gardena is an excellent stay in both the winter and summer. Travelers will be able to obtain picture-perfect images of the Dolomites from Val Gardena. Many visitors prefer to stay in this area (and Selva di Val Gardena, specifically) for the convenient location, since it is close to the highway and leads directly to the valley.
How To Get to the Dolomites
The closest airport to Val Gardena is Bolzano Airport, which is around one hour away from the three main towns of Val Gardena. Compared to the airports in Milan or Munich, Bolzano is the best option for foreigners who want to lessen any extra transportation costs. For convenience and affordable travel, Bolzano offers public transport to Val Gardena. Otherwise, travelers can also rent a car to get around.
Things To Do in the Dolomites
The Dolomites have plenty to do in every season. From snow-capped mountain adventures to sunny hikes, travelers will definitely find something exciting to do. Learn about the most popular spots and activities that travelers can enjoy at different times of the year.
Hiking
Avid hikers will find the journey to Marmolada the ultimate challenge, since it is the highest summit in the Dolomites mountains. The multi-peak mountain has been coined the “Queen of the Dolomites” and is 10,968 feet tall (with a 5.84-mile hike). There are many other day hikes, like the Tofana di Mezzo. This is one of the easiest and shortest hikes, with a 0.2-mile distance that actually happens to be steep. Another challenging hike is the 4.2-mile Alpe di Siusi, which has the highest alpine meadow in Europe.
Snow Sports
The Dolomiti Superski is a popular ski area in Italy that comprises 12 ski resorts. It is the largest ski area in the world and attracts a huge skiing (and snowboarding) crowd. The interconnected resorts span multiple valleys and have the largest and second largest lift and trail system in the world. The Cristallo Hotel Spa and Golf is one of Cortina d’Ampezzo’s most luxurious ski resorts in Italy that offers a spa, golf course and indoor pool. Cortina, along with some other Italian territories, is the host of the 2026 Winter Olympics. So, it is an unparalleled destination for snow sports and will gain even more popularity after the Winter Olympics.
Plan Your Next Visit
If you’re in search of an unforgettable vacation destination, Northeastern Italy’s mountainous gem the Dolomites have certainly earned a spot on your travel list. No matter what time of year, this premiere destination will deliver jaw-dropping views and a lifetime worth of memories.