The Dolomites are a stunning mountain range located in northeastern Italy, part of the Southern Limestone Alps. Known for their dramatic, jagged peaks, steep cliffs, and unique rock formations, they have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for their natural beauty and geological significance.
The Dolomites span the regions of Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, Veneto, and Friuli Venezia Giulia. Major towns in the area include Cortina d’Ampezzo, Bolzano, and Trento.
The landscape features towering limestone peaks, lush valleys, and rolling alpine meadows. Famous peaks like the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Marmolada (the highest in the range), and Sella Group attract many outdoor enthusiasts.
The Dolomites are a paradise for hikers, climbers, and skiers. In the summer, there are numerous hiking trails, via ferrata (protected climbing routes), and mountain biking opportunities. Winter brings some of Europe’s best skiing, especially in areas like Cortina d’Ampezzo and Val Gardena.
The region is also rich in culture, blending Italian, Germanic, and Ladin influences. Ladin, an ancient Romance language, is still spoken in certain valleys, and the area has a distinct mix of traditions and cuisines from both Italy and Austria.
The Dolomites are named after the carbonate rock dolomite, which gives the mountains their unique pale color. The area has a rich geological history, with fossilized coral reefs and atolls dating back over 200 million years, when the region was part of a tropical sea.
Popular tourist towns include Cortina d’Ampezzo, known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” and Bolzano, a gateway city with rich history and culture. The Dolomites are also known for the scenic Great Dolomites Road (Grande Strada delle Dolomiti), which offers breathtaking views.
Traveler takes a deeper dive into the region being at the forefront of Roman and Germanic history as well as having a distinct role in World Wars I and II.
The Roman Empire
The Roman Empire, during its expansion and control over vast parts of Europe, had a significant military presence in the Alpine regions, including the area around the Dolomites. While the Dolomites themselves were not a major theater of Roman military campaigns, they were strategically important for controlling the northern borders of Italy, particularly during the Roman Republic and Empire. Here’s how the Romans used the region:
Alpine Defense: The Dolomites are part of the larger Alps mountain range, which formed a natural barrier between the Roman heartland and the northern territories. For the Roman army, controlling key Alpine passes was essential to defend Italy from incursions by northern tribes, such as the Germanic and Celtic peoples.
Via Claudia Augusta: One of the most significant Roman roads in the region was the Via Claudia Augusta, which connected the Po River valley in Italy to the provinces of Raetia (modern-day Bavaria and parts of Austria) and Noricum (modern Austria). This road likely passed near the western fringes of the Dolomites and was crucial for moving troops and supplies across the mountains.
Garrison Towns: The Romans built garrison towns and fortifications in the foothills of the Alps and along strategic passes to secure the region. These towns served as bases for Roman legions and auxiliary forces to patrol and maintain order along the northern frontiers.
Conquest of Alpine Tribes: In the early years of the Roman Republic and later the Roman Empire, the Romans campaigned against the indigenous Raetian, Venetic, and Celtic tribes who inhabited the Alpine and Dolomite regions. These tribes were considered a threat to Roman control of northern Italy, and their subjugation was essential for securing the Roman heartland.
Augustus’ Campaigns: One of the most significant military campaigns in the Alps occurred under the Emperor Augustus in 15 BCE, when he sent his stepsons, Drusus and Tiberius, to pacify the Alpine tribes and secure the passes. This campaign resulted in the incorporation of the region into the Roman Empire and the establishment of the provinces of Raetia and Noricum.
Infrastructure: The Romans were known for their extensive road networks, and the Alpine region, including the Dolomites, was no exception. Roads like the Via Claudia Augusta allowed for the efficient movement of troops, trade goods, and communication across the difficult mountainous terrain.
Romanization: With the construction of roads and the establishment of garrisons and colonies, Roman culture, law, and language began to spread throughout the region. The local tribes were gradually Romanized, adopting Latin and Roman customs. This transformation helped stabilize the region and integrate it into the broader Roman Empire.
Outposts and Patrols: While the Dolomites themselves were not home to major Roman cities or military bases, the Roman army likely had smaller outposts and patrols in the area. These outposts would have been tasked with monitoring movement through the mountains and responding to any threats from northern tribes.
Natural Barrier: The Dolomites, like much of the Alps, served as a natural defensive barrier. The rugged terrain made large-scale invasions difficult, and the Romans capitalized on this by securing the few accessible passes. In times of peace, the mountains helped protect Roman Italy from northern invasions.
Defense Against Barbarians: In the later stages of the Roman Empire (3rd to 5th centuries CE), the Alpine regions, including the Dolomites, became even more important as Rome faced increasing pressure from migrating Germanic tribes, such as the Goths and Vandals. The Roman army fortified its positions in the mountains to slow or prevent these invasions.
Hannibal Crosses the Dolomites
Hannibal’s crossing of the Alps in 218 BCE during the Second Punic War remains one of the most famous military feats in history. Hannibal Barca, the Carthaginian general, led his army, which included elephants, from Spain across the Alps into Italy to strike at the heart of the Roman Republic.
He sought to avoid a direct naval confrontation with Rome by taking an overland route through the Alps. His goal was to surprise the Romans by attacking Italy from the north, rather than via the more expected southern or coastal approaches. The army, assembled in Spain, included approximately 40,000 infantry, 12,000 cavalry, and around 37 war elephants. The elephants were meant to be a psychological weapon as well as a practical one, terrifying enemy soldiers unused to them in battle.
The exact route Hannibal took through the Alps remains debated by historians. Likely options include the Col de la Traversette, Col du Mont Cenis, or Col du Montgenèvre, but no definitive evidence confirms the path. Each route would have presented formidable challenges in terms of terrain, weather, and hostile local tribes.
The elephants were among the most challenging aspects of the crossing. These animals were not only difficult to maneuver in steep and icy conditions, but they also required large amounts of food and water. Some accounts suggest that Hannibal’s army built makeshift bridges and platforms to help the elephants cross difficult parts of the terrain. Of the 37 elephants that began the journey, only a few are believed to have survived the Alps crossing.
After approximately 15 days of crossing the Alps, Hannibal’s army descended into the Po Valley in northern Italy. Though he lost a significant portion of his forces—some estimates suggest as much as half—Hannibal’s surviving troops were still a formidable army, bolstered by local Gallic tribes who had grievances against Rome.
Hannibal’s arrival in Italy took the Romans by surprise. The audacity of leading an army, including war elephants, over the Dolomitic Alps was both a tactical and psychological masterstroke. It allowed Hannibal to bring the fight directly to Rome and established his reputation as one of the greatest military commanders in history.
World War I
The Italian Front: During World War I, the Dolomites formed part of the front line between Italy and Austria-Hungary after Italy entered the war on the side of the Allies in 1915. The area saw intense fighting, particularly around Passo Falzarego, Lagazuoi, and Marmolada, with soldiers engaged in combat on the rugged mountainsides.
There are still man-made caves in the Dolomites that are a unique part Mountain Warfare. These caves, known as “war tunnels” or “military caves,” were created by soldiers during the war when the Dolomites became a battleground between Italy and the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The war was fought at high altitudes, and both sides constructed extensive networks of tunnels and caves in the mountains to shelter troops, store supplies, and serve as defensive positions. These caves were typically dug into the rock by hand, often under harsh conditions and at great risk.
The war tunnels and caves are scattered throughout various parts of the Dolomites, with some of the most well-known located in areas such as the Lagazuoi mountain, the Cinque Torri, and the Marmolada.
Lagazuoi: To visit the Lagazuoi tunnels, you can take the Lagazuoi cable car from the Passo Falzarego, which will bring you close to the entrance of the tunnels. The tunnels themselves are accessible on foot, but be prepared for a steep and sometimes narrow climb. The Lagazuoi tunnels are well-maintained and can be explored with a guide or self-guided.
Cinque Torri: This area is another prominent site with preserved tunnels from World War I. It is accessible from the town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, and you can reach it by hiking or taking a chairlift.
Marmolada: The Marmolada Glacier also has preserved war tunnels, accessible from Malga Ciapela via a cable car ride that brings you up to the site.
World War II
Germany’s Role in the Region: During World War II, the Dolomites were part of the Italian Social Republic (a puppet state of Nazi Germany) after the fall of Mussolini in 1943. German forces occupied much of northern Italy, including the Dolomites, during this time.
Partisan Resistance: The Dolomites were a hotspot for anti-fascist partisan activity, with Italian resistance fighters taking refuge in the mountains and conducting guerrilla warfare against the German occupiers. The rugged terrain provided a natural advantage for resistance movements.
Post-War Influence: After World War II, the region’s cultural landscape was shaped by the shifting borders and the lingering effects of both world wars. The Dolomites are now part of Italy, though the region retains a unique mix of German, Italian, and Ladin influences.
Alpe di Siusi
Alpe di Siusi (also known as Seiser Alm) is a fantastic place to lodge and is one of the most beautiful high-altitude plateaus in the Dolomites, known for its stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and excellent accommodation options. It offers a range of lodges, hotels, and refuges for visitors looking to stay in the area, whether for skiing, hiking, or simply enjoying the alpine scenery.
Castelrotto (Kastelruth)
Castelrotto is one of the main villages near Alpe di Siusi, known for its traditional Tyrolean architecture, beautiful church with a tall bell tower, and charming atmosphere. It is a great base for exploring the Alpe di Siusi area and the Dolomites.
Activities: The village offers plenty of hiking, biking, and skiing opportunities, along with cultural events such as the famous Kastelruther Spatzen music festival. There are also museums and historical sites to visit.
Siusi allo Sciliar (Seis am Schlern)
This village is located at the foot of the Schlern/Sciliar mountain and serves as a gateway to Alpe di Siusi. It has a more relaxed and quiet atmosphere compared to Castelrotto but is still well-equipped with hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Activities: From Siusi, you can take a cable car directly up to the Alpe di Siusi plateau. In winter, it is popular with skiers, while in summer, hiking and mountain biking dominate the activities.
Tires (Tiers)
This small and peaceful village is located at the entrance to the Tires Valley, just below the Alpe di Siusi. It offers a more secluded and tranquil setting, ideal for those looking to escape the busier tourist areas.
Activities: Hiking and climbing in the Catinaccio/Rosengarten massif are popular here, along with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.
iè allo Sciliar (Völs am Schlern)
- Description: Fiè allo Sciliar is a picturesque village known for its wellness culture, particularly the Völser Weiher (a mountain lake known for its swimming in the summer and ice-skating in the winter) and the village’s many spa hotels.
- Activities: Besides wellness activities, Fiè offers easy access to hiking trails, mountain climbing, and skiing. The village is also home to the Schloss Prösels, a medieval castle that hosts cultural events and tours.
The villages around Alpe di Siusi are deeply rooted in Tyrolean culture, with a mix of Italian and Austrian influences. Local traditions, cuisine, and the Ladin language are part of daily life in these villages. The architecture typically features wooden chalets, flower-filled balconies, and centuries-old churches, contributing to the region’s cozy and charming alpine atmosphere.
Access to Alpe di Siusi
- Cable Cars: Villages like Siusi allo Sciliar and Castelrotto have cable cars that take visitors directly up to the Alpe di Siusi plateau, making it easy to access hiking and skiing trails.
- Public Transport: There are buses that connect the villages to larger towns like Bolzano, making it convenient to travel in and out of the area without a car.
Tre Cime
Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks of Lavaredo) is one of the most iconic and stunning locations in the Dolomites, Italy. These three distinctive limestone peaks—Cima Grande, Cima Ovest, and Cima Piccola—stand side by side, creating a dramatic and imposing landscape that draws hikers, climbers, and photographers from around the world.
Tre Cime is located in the Sexten Dolomites, within the province of South Tyrol. The peaks are accessible from several mountain huts (rifugi) and nearby valleys, such as Val di Landro and Val di Sesto.
Hiking: The most popular activity around Tre Cime is hiking. The Tre Cime Circuit is a well-known trail that offers incredible panoramic views of the peaks and surrounding Dolomites. The hike is relatively easy and suitable for most fitness levels, with routes starting from Rifugio Auronzo. The entire circuit typically takes around 3 to 4 hours.
Climbing: For more adventurous visitors, Tre Cime is a world-class destination for rock climbing. The steep vertical walls of the peaks are a challenge even for experienced climbers, with routes dating back to the golden age of alpinism.
Access and Lodging
Rifugio Auronzo: This mountain hut is a popular starting point for hikes around Tre Cime. It can be reached by car from Misurina via a toll road, making access relatively easy.
Rifugio Lavaredo and Rifugio Locatelli: Both huts provide food and lodging for hikers and are perfect rest stops during a trek around Tre Cime.
Lago Antorno
Lago Antorno is a small, picturesque alpine lake located near Tre Cime di Lavaredo in the Dolomites, Italy. It is situated at an altitude of about 1,866 meters and is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Lago di Misurina, but it offers its own unique charm and tranquility.
Lago Antorno is surrounded by lush pine forests and rolling meadows, with the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites, including the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, visible in the distance. The lake itself is relatively small, but its calm waters create beautiful reflections of the surrounding mountains, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers.
Hiking and Tours: Lago Antorno serves as a starting point for various hikes and walks in the surrounding area. From here, you can embark on trails that lead to Rifugio Auronzo and further up to the Tre Cime, or explore more leisurely paths around the lake.
Photography: With its peaceful setting and the stunning Dolomites in the background, Lago Antorno is a great place for landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light enhances the colors of the mountains and forests.
Winter Activities: In winter, the area around Lago Antorno is covered in snow, making it a peaceful destination for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. The lake freezes over, and the surrounding trees are blanketed in snow, creating a magical winter scene.
Lago Antorno is located along the road that leads from Misurina to Rifugio Auronzo (the starting point for many Tre Cime hikes). It is easily accessible by car, and there is a small parking area nearby.
Accommodations
Chalet Lago Antorno: Located right by the lake, this cozy chalet offers rustic accommodation, delicious local food, and easy access to the surrounding trails and natural attractions. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing stay amidst nature.
Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cortina d’Ampezzo, often referred to simply as Cortina, is a world-famous mountain town in the heart of the Dolomites in northern Italy. It is located in the Veneto region and is renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, luxury accommodations, and excellent outdoor activities. Cortina d’Ampezzo has earned a reputation as a premier destination for skiing, mountaineering, and other mountain sports, as well as for its chic atmosphere and upscale offerings.
Skiing and Winter Sports
Cortina is one of Italy’s top ski resorts and a key part of the Dolomiti Superski area, which boasts over 1,200 kilometers of ski slopes. The town has hosted numerous international skiing competitions, including the Winter Olympics in 1956, and is set to co-host the 2026 Winter Olympics with Milan.
Skiing and Snowboarding: With well-maintained slopes for all skill levels and modern ski lifts, Cortina is ideal for both beginners and expert skiers. The ski season generally runs from December to April.
Winter Olympics 2026: Cortina will be a major venue for the upcoming Winter Olympics, showcasing its world-class sports infrastructure.
Summer Activities
In the warmer months, Cortina transforms into a hub for hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. The dramatic landscapes of the Dolomites offer numerous trails and paths with varying difficulty levels.
Hiking: Trails around Cinque Torri, Tofane, and Cristallo offer breathtaking panoramic views and access to historical World War I sites.
Climbing: Cortina is a popular destination for rock climbing, with many routes across the famous Dolomite peaks.
Via Ferrata: Adventurous hikers can enjoy the via ferrata routes—fixed-cable climbing paths that make exploring the more challenging terrain accessible.
Cortina is known not only for its outdoor activities but also for its sophisticated dining and shopping scene.
Fine Dining: The town has several high-end restaurants offering both traditional Italian and Ladin cuisine, as well as more modern gastronomic experiences. Popular local dishes include hearty polenta, game meats, and local cheeses.
Shopping: Cortina has a reputation for upscale shopping, featuring designer boutiques, luxury fashion brands, and artisanal goods. Strolling along Corso Italia, the main street, is a popular activity for visitors.
Accommodation
Cortina d’Ampezzo offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious 5-star hotels to charming mountain chalets. Some notable options include:
Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa: A historic 5-star hotel with stunning views, a world-class spa, and fine dining.
Hotel de la Poste: An elegant and traditional hotel located in the town center, known for its old-world charm and excellent service.
Rosapetra Spa Resort: A boutique resort that combines modern luxury with a rustic alpine atmosphere, offering wellness treatments and high-end dining.
Cortina is easily accessible by car and bus from major northern Italian cities like Venice and Bolzano. The nearest train station is in Calalzo di Cadore, about 35 kilometers away, with regular bus connections to the town. The upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics have also led to infrastructure upgrades, making Cortina even more accessible.
Beyond skiing and hiking, Cortina d’Ampezzo is home to:
- Museo all’aperto della Grande Guerra: An open-air museum dedicated to the battles fought in the Dolomites during World War I.
- Faloria Cable Car: This cable car offers stunning views over the town and the surrounding Dolomites, with a restaurant at the top for visitors to enjoy.
Lago di Braies
Lago di Braies (also known as Pragser Wildsee in German) is one of the most picturesque and famous alpine lakes in the Dolomites, Italy. It is located in the Pragser Tal valley within the South Tyrol region, and its crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by towering Dolomite peaks create a breathtaking and serene landscape.
Lago di Braies is known for its stunning beauty, with the towering Croda del Becco (Seekofel) mountain rising dramatically above the lake. The clear, emerald waters reflect the surrounding peaks and forests, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers. The lake’s natural beauty changes with the seasons, offering a snow-covered winter wonderland or lush, green vistas during the summer.
Hiking: There is a popular trail that circles the lake, which is accessible to most fitness levels and takes around 1-2 hours to complete. This hike offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains from various vantage points. More challenging trails lead further into the Dolomites, including hikes to Seekofel or the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park.
Boating: A signature activity at Lago di Braies is renting a wooden rowboat to explore the lake from the water. These boats can be rented from a boathouse on the shore and offer a peaceful way to enjoy the surroundings.
Swimming: Although the water is quite cold due to the high altitude, some visitors enjoy a refreshing swim in the lake during the summer months.
Winter Activities: In winter, Lago di Braies freezes over, and visitors can enjoy activities like snowshoeing or simply admiring the peaceful, snowy landscape.
Lago di Braies is easily accessible by car, and there is a parking area close to the lake. In the summer, the lake can become very crowded, so it’s advisable to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. There are also shuttle services from nearby towns such as Dobbiaco and Brunico during peak tourist seasons.
There are several accommodation options near Lago di Braies, ranging from luxury hotels to more rustic lodges.
Hotel Lago di Braies: This historic hotel sits directly on the shores of the lake and offers charming rooms with stunning views, as well as a restaurant serving traditional South Tyrolean cuisine.
Gasthof Huber: Located in the nearby village of Braies, this cozy guesthouse offers comfortable accommodations with a more local, intimate feel.
Hotel Pragser Wildsee: Another option located right on the lake, offering breathtaking views, a traditional alpine atmosphere, and access to hiking trails.
Attractions
Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park: This park offers numerous hiking trails and opportunities to explore the diverse landscapes of the Dolomites, from alpine meadows to rocky peaks.
Pragser Tal Valley: The valley leading to Lago di Braies is also worth exploring, with its rolling pastures, farms, and traditional Tyrolean villages.
There are various types of accommodations, including hotels, alpine huts, and apartments. Here are a few notable options:
Hotel Rosa Alpina: This luxury hotel offers elegant rooms, a wellness center, and gourmet dining. It’s perfect for those looking for a high-end experience with incredible views of the surrounding mountains.
Hotel Steger-Dellai: Located directly on the Alpe di Siusi, this family-run hotel provides comfortable accommodations with a rustic alpine feel. It offers easy access to hiking trails in the summer and ski slopes in the winter.
Seiser Alm Urthaler: This eco-friendly, five-star hotel is made from natural materials and provides luxurious accommodation with spa services and fine dining. It’s ideal for those looking for a sustainable yet high-end stay.
Rifugio Molignon: If you’re looking for a more traditional alpine lodge experience, Rifugio Molignon is a cozy hut situated directly in the heart of Alpe di Siusi. It’s a great spot for hikers and nature lovers who prefer staying in more rustic accommodations.
Hotel Goldknopf: This hotel offers a peaceful retreat with wellness facilities and fine dining. It’s an excellent choice for guests who want to combine outdoor activities with relaxation and comfort.
Dolomites Map of Scenic Locations and Accommodations
Mountain Valleys
Mountain valleys in the Dolomites, Italy, are renowned for their breathtaking beauty, with dramatic cliffs, lush meadows, and dense forests framed by towering peaks. Some of the most famous valleys include:
Val Gardena: A picturesque valley known for its outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and climbing, surrounded by stunning mountain views and charming villages like Ortisei and Selva.
Val di Fassa: Nestled between towering Dolomite peaks, this valley offers a mix of traditional Ladin culture, outdoor adventure, and scenic beauty, perfect for both winter sports and summer hiking.
Val Badia: Known for its rugged terrain and rich cultural heritage, this valley offers access to high-altitude hikes and ski resorts, with a peaceful atmosphere and traditional alpine lodges.
Val di Funes: A quieter, more serene valley, known for its iconic views of the Odle peaks and idyllic villages like Santa Maddalena, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
The Dolomites are a stunning fusion of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and rich history, from their dramatic landscapes to their role in both ancient and modern warfare. Whether you’re drawn to their jagged peaks for adventure or intrigued by their strategic importance throughout history, the Dolomites offer a unique glimpse into the past and a breathtaking escape in the present. If you have stories, insights, or questions about the Dolomites, feel free to add to the conversation in the comments section below!
