This year-round destination in the Italian Alps has breathtaking scenery of mountains and lakes combined with adventure pursuits and interesting towns.
Hiking, skiing, mountaineering, art and history lure travellers to the Eastern Dolomites. Quaint villages are nestled near forested valleys, architecturally impressive towns and world-renowned ski resorts. Visit this spectacular mountain range in the northern Italian Alps for the natural beauty of rugged peaks, cliffs and valleys presenting one of the world’s most eye-catching mountain landscapes.
During the winter months, the Eastern Dolomites region is popular for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Excellent resorts with powdery snow trails suitable for all abilities sit close to the Italy-Austria border. Investigate Alta Badia, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Val Gardena and Val di Fassa, among others. The Dolomiti Superski pass gives access to about 745 miles (1,200 kilometres) of slopes and 450 lifts.
After the snow melts, the deep valleys transform into carpets of colourful wildflowers. Spring and summer are great seasons for nature walks, visits to Alpine gardens, cycling, golf and paragliding. Explore areas of the 93-mile-long (150-kilometre) Alte Vie delle Dolomiti trekking route. Hike around dramatic peaks such as Monte Pelmo and Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Take boat trips on mirror-like lakes, including Lago di Alleghe.
Discover an intriguing mix of Italian and Austrian customs in the villages of the Eastern Dolomites. Admire the architectural grandeur of Belluno and Feltre. Relax in the picturesque confines of Pieve di Cadore and San Pietro di Cadore. Visit pretty mountainside hamlets of Colle Santa Lucia, Selva di Cadore and Zoppé di Cadore.
Sample the region’s cuisine, rich in traditional Italian ingredients such as cheeses, dry-cured meats and polenta. Try casunziei (stuffed pasta), camoscio (salami) and soft semi-cooked schiz cheese. Tour prosecco-producing wineries in the hills of Conegliano.
Belluno, about 65 miles (105 kilometres) from Venice, is a good base for exploring the Eastern Dolomites. Get around the region via rented car or the Dolomiti Bus, which connects Belluno with many towns and ski resorts. Alpine lodges, mountain huts and rustic guesthouses provide ideal options for overnight stays in this stunning region.
