CONTENTS OVERVIEW
Gardena Pass
Gardena Pass (also known as Grödnerjoch and Passo Gardena) is a high mountain pass bridging Val Gardena and Val Badia. The number of jaw-dropping views of the Dolomites along the pass is astounding as it is virtually in the heart of the range.
The best part? Everyone can enjoy the scenery. Gardena Pass can be traversed by foot, bike or car. Those up for a more challenging trek can embark on a hike around Sassolungo.
➤ A View from the Summit of Gran Cir
➤ Sella & Sassolungo Group in Early Fall
Tre Cime di Lavaredo
The rugged peaks of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo (also known as Drei Zinnen and Three Peaks of Lavaredo) need little introduction to mountain lovers. This mighty trio’s thundering presence makes them the symbolic face of the Dolomites.
➤ The Three Peaks in the Late Afternoon Sun
➤ A View from a Summit of Tre Cime di Lavaredo
Lago di Carezza
Lago di Carezza (also known as Karersee) is another striking body of water in the Dolomites of South Tyrol. Although smaller than Lago di Braies its emerald shimmer is even more magical as it appears to transform before the eyes.
In October 2018, a violent wind storm tore through the region destroying thousands of acres of forestland around the lake. The following 360-degree panoramas will give you a sense of the devastation.
➤ An Aerial View of Lago di Carezza Before the Storm
➤ An Aerial View of Lago di Carezza After the Storm
➤ Lago di Carezza from the Shoreline
According to forestry experts, it will take 120 to 150 years for the forest to return to its previous form.
Val di Funes
The majestic Val di Funes (also known as Villnöss) is an unspoiled valley home to the northern faces of the saw-toothed Odle (Geisler) peaks and one of the Dolomites’ most iconic mountain huts: Geisler Alm. The jarring contrast between its sleepy rolling meadows and the serrated mountain peaks is the very definition of dramatic.
➤ The Odle Peaks Under the Spell of Alpenglow
➤ Virtually Trek the Adolf Munkel Trail
➤ Visit the Church of St. Johann
Seceda
Seceda Mountain is at once a jaw-dropping and mystifying construct of nature. Its speary crags careen skyward like gnarled fingers grasping for life. Seeing them up close for the first time can be equally awe-inspiring and jarring — especially when a mist of clouds creeps over their tips.
➤ Seceda in Spring
➤ Seceda in Winter
Lago di Braies
One never tires of staring deep into the emerald waters of Lago di Braies (also known as Pragser Wildsee). The most popular lake in the Dolomites, Lago di Braies enthralls in all seasons. A circular trail wraps around its shores allowing hikers to find their mountain-lake backdrop. And if that doesn’t work they can row to the middle of the lake to take it all in at once.
➤ From the Shores of Lago di Braies
➤ An Aerial View of Lago di Braies
Alpe di Siusi / Seiser Alm
Alpe di Siusi (also known as a Seiser Alm) is a sprawling Alpine pastureland that tumbles into several iconic mountains of the Dolomites. Its gentle hills and abundance of traditional mountainside taverns make it one of the best places in South Tyrol to immerse yourself in mountain scenery and culture by foot or bike.
➤ A View from the Summit of Schlern Mountain
➤ A View of Schlern & the St. Valentin Chapel
Dream Now. Visit When You Can
In addition to virtually visiting the Dolomites through the above links, consider also flipping your laptop shut and reading a book about the region. Check out our recommended South Tyrol-related books for some ideas. And if you are itching to do some serious trip planning, start mapping out where you want to go by reading about the top hikes in the Dolomites.
