Dolomites for Indian Travellers: Lakes, Peaks and Easy Walks
Description
Jagged limestone peaks, emerald lakes such as Lago di Braies, cable cars and mountain huts: Italy's Alps, beautiful by car from Venice or Innsbruck.
The Dolomites are the mountain range in north-eastern Italy, and a favourite with Indian honeymooners and photographers who want dramatic peaks without the Swiss prices. Italy is in the Schengen area, so your Schengen visa covers it. Most visitors fly into Venice, Milan or Innsbruck and drive in, as the best viewpoints are spread across several valleys.
Plan four or five nights in one or two bases, such as Ortisei in Val Gardena or Cortina d'Ampezzo. The classics are Lago di Braies with its wooden boats, the three peaks of Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the Seceda ridge by cable car, the meadows of Alpe di Siusi and the church of Val di Funes against the mountains. Many viewpoints are reached by cable car with only short walks, which suits families and older travellers.
The food is a mix of Italian and Tyrolean: pizza and pasta are easy, and the mountain huts serve spinach and cheese dumplings (canederli; some versions contain speck, so ask), polenta with mushrooms and apple strudel. June to September is the season for walking and cable cars; many lifts close between seasons. Start early: popular spots such as Lago di Braies and Tre Cime have limited and paid parking that fills up fast.
Activities
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Tre Cime di LavaredoA set of three massive rock pillars that tower over the Italian landscape, perfect for sunrises.Book
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The Ridgeline CrossA high point along the mountain ridge providing sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.Book
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Lago d’AntornoA picturesque lake passed along the road leading up to the toll booth.Book
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Cappella degli AlpiniA quaint alpine church located along the wide gravel path at the start of the hike.Book
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Forcella LavaredoOne of the best viewpoints on the entire loop, offering sweeping views over the valley and towards Rifugio Locatelli.Book
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What others say
“The Dolomites are the place that keeps me coming back.”
“Seceda and Alpi di Suisi were both incredible and involved a cable car as the first stage.”
“It’s incredible in a way you can’t compare other places to.”
Where to stay
Budget Youth Hostel Toblach
A budget youth hostel located in Toblach/Dobbiaco offering dorms for travelers.
Mira Lago
A beautiful hotel where the traveler stayed before heading down to Cortina.
Rifugio Nuvolau
Cliffside rifugio offering great views, pasta, wine, and overnight stays.
Rifugio Re Alberto
Fantastic mountain hut at the base of dramatic towers, perfect for stargazing and starting hikes.
