Dolomites Hidden Gems: A Local's Guide
Source:
@marielinmontagna
31 places in Trentino-Alto Adige featured in a instagram post by Mariel Nardi, verified on Google Maps: Alta Badia, Pragser Wildsee, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and 28 more.
Alta Badia
Ski resort
4.9
Choose the road from Val Badia for a less challenging drive to Passo delle Erbe, especially if navigating mountain roads makes you uncomfortable. This valley offers a beautiful journey through alpine landscapes. It's a great option for scenic driving.
Pragser Wildsee
Lake
4.7
This popular lake serves as a reference point for other beautiful lakes in the region. Its stunning scenery is well-known, drawing many visitors. Consider visiting early or late to avoid crowds.
Tre Cime di Lavaredo
Natural feature
4.8
Catch a distant but impressive view of the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo from Monte Specie. These iconic peaks are a highlight of the Dolomites. While not directly accessible from Prato Piazza, the distant view is still spectacular.
Val di Funes
Natural feature
4.8
Consider driving through Val di Funes to reach Passo delle Erbe, but be aware of its narrow and winding roads. This picturesque valley is renowned for its iconic church views. Exercise caution if you are not comfortable with mountain driving.
Würzjoch
Natural feature
4.8
Drive to this stunning mountain pass for incredible views and access to the Sass de Putia circuit. If you prefer less challenging roads, opt for the route from Val Badia. Public bus transport is available in the summer season.
Prato Piazza
Place
Visit this expansive alpine plateau for stunning mountain vistas, located near Lago di Braies. Access is limited by a paid road outside of shuttle hours, so plan accordingly. Hike to Monte Specie for 360-degree views, including Tre Cime di Lavaredo.
Lago di Tovel
Lake
4.7
Discover this emerald lake with its stunning blue waters in the western Dolomites. Pack a picnic and a swimsuit for a relaxing day after an easy one-hour loop trail. Access is via a paid road or shuttle in summer.
Peitlerkofel
Mountain peak
4.9
Embark on the Sass de Putia circuit trail, a rewarding 4-hour hike around this distinctive mountain. The trail offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment. It's a fantastic option for a moderately challenging day hike.
Strada Val Monzoni
Place
Explore this lush green valley, offering a tranquil escape from crowds. Shuttles are available from Vidor to Malga Monzoni to shorten the hike. The intense uphill climb leads to stunning views at Rifugio Vallaccia.
Rifugio Vallaccia
Lodging
4.6
Reach this rifugio for a rewarding view after a challenging hike through Val Monzoni. Enjoy the panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. It’s an ideal spot for a break before heading back.
Val San Nicolò
Hiking area
4.7
Hike through this wildflower-filled valley, passing charming wooden huts and two waterfalls. Take the summer shuttle from Vidor to Baita Ta Cajaa to reduce hiking time. For a rewarding challenge, continue to Passo San Nicolò.
Baita Segantini
Bar
4.5
Experience unbeatable views of the Pale di San Martino from this mountain hut. Arrive for sunset to witness the magical alpenglow phenomenon. Remember to bring a headlamp for the hike back after dark.
Azienda agricola Ta Ciajaa
Bed & breakfast
4.5
Utilize this spot as a convenient shuttle stop to shorten your hike in Val San Nicolò. It provides an accessible entry point to the valley's scenic trails. Plan your journey around the shuttle schedule for ease of access.
Baita alle Cascate
Restaurant
4.5
Enjoy a well-deserved lunch break at this charming spot amidst the Val San Nicolò trails. It's perfectly situated near the waterfalls, offering a picturesque setting. Fuel up here before continuing your exploration.
Rifugio Passo San Nicolò
Lodging
4.4
Challenge yourself with a hike up to Passo San Nicolò for the most rewarding views of the valley. The panoramic vistas are truly spectacular, making the effort worthwhile. It's an excellent addition for experienced hikers.
Antholzer See
Lake
4.8
Relax by this emerald lake with an easy loop trail perfect for a leisurely stroll. Bring your swimsuit for a refreshing dip on a warm day. For active adventurers, the 'vista 2 laghi' trail offers views of lakes in Italy and Austria.
Passo di Stalle
Natural feature
4.8
Start the 'vista 2 laghi' trail from Passo Stalle, offering unique views straddling the Italian and Austrian borders. This pass is a gateway to diverse landscapes and hiking opportunities. Prepare for varying weather conditions at higher altitudes.
Enzianhütte
Restaurant
4.7
Indulge in the best kaiserschmarrn of your life at Rifugio Genziana after your hike. This cozy mountain hut provides a perfect culinary reward. It’s an ideal spot to refuel and enjoy traditional alpine cuisine.
Sentiero della Val di Fumo
Place
Hike through this wide-open valley, starting from Lago di Malga Bissina and following a crystalline river. Observe cows and wild horses grazing freely along the trail. Bring cash as mountain huts here do not accept credit cards and sunscreen is essential.
Lago di Malga Bissina
Lake
4.7
Begin your journey into Val di Fumo at this incredible lake, serving as a picturesque starting point. The serene waters and surrounding landscape set a beautiful tone for the hike. Ensure you have essentials before starting the trail from here.
Shelter Val di Fumo
Lodging
4.4
Conclude your hike at Rifugio Val di Fumo, a charming mountain hut where you can relax and observe grazing animals. Remember to bring cash as credit cards are not accepted for purchases. It's a perfect spot to enjoy the untouched alpine environment.
Val Venegia
Park
4.9
Enjoy an easy, relatively flat trail starting at Pian dei Casoni, following a scenic river past Malga Venegia. For a longer, more rewarding hike, continue another hour to Baita Segantini. This valley offers stunning natural beauty.
Parcheggio Val Venegia - Pian dei Casoni
Parking lot
4.3
Begin your easy hike through Val Venegia from Pian dei Casoni, a convenient starting point. This area offers gentle terrain, perfect for families or those seeking a relaxed stroll. Take in the picturesque surroundings before embarking on your journey.
MALGA VENEGIA
Farmstay
4.5
Pass by Malga Venegia on your hike through the valley, enjoying the charming alpine scenery. It's a lovely spot to pause and appreciate the surroundings. The river flows nearby, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.
Malga Venegiota di Tonadico
Restaurant
4.5
Reach Malga Venegiota along the Val Venegia trail, a natural turning point for a shorter hike. This area provides beautiful views before you decide to either loop back or extend your adventure. It's a perfect spot for a break.
Strudelkopf
Mountain peak
4.9
Hike to Monte Specie for an unparalleled 360-degree panorama of the Dolomites, including the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo. This 3-hour round trip hike is incredibly rewarding. It's a must-do for photographers and avid hikers.
Dürrensteinhütte
Restaurant
4.3
Enjoy a well-deserved lunch at Rifugio Vallandro on your way back from Monte Specie. This mountain hut offers a comfortable stop with scenic views. It’s a perfect place to refuel and relax after your hike.
Malga Prà di Saènt
Landmark
4.5
Discover this picturesque meadow, marking the end point of the 3-hour loop trail from Coler. It's a serene spot amidst the mountains, offering stunning views and a perfect place for a break. The area provides a tranquil reward after your hike through the waterfalls.
Cascate di Saent
Landmark
4.8
Experience the majestic waterfalls along this scenic uphill trail. Start at Coler for a 3-hour loop that leads to Prà di Saent. Consider extending your adventure to Rifugio Dorigoni for a challenging 7-hour round trip.
Rifugio Dorigoni
Lodging
4.8
For an extended and more challenging trek, continue your hike to Rifugio Dorigoni, a rewarding 7-hour round trip. This alpine hut offers stunning panoramic views and a chance to rest amidst rugged mountain scenery. It's a prime destination for serious hikers seeking an unforgettable Dolomites experience.
Coler
Place
Begin your journey to the Cascata di Saent waterfalls from this charming starting point. The trail offers a beautiful uphill wooded path, perfect for nature lovers. It’s an ideal spot to kick off a refreshing hike into the valley.