Three perfect days in the Dolomites?

August 2, 2022 12:36 PM

We'll only have three full days -- it'll be early October, and we'd ideally end somewhere near a train station on the Italian side (Belluno?) as we need to get to Venice shortly thereafter. Best place to base ourselves?

We're not hardcore hikers but would love to do a moderate half-day hike or two. But we also just love charming towns, history, and good food. For reference, we loved exploring Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, Gimmelwald via funicular when we went to Switzerland. Given all this, where would you recommend for the best place(s) to base ourselves in the Dolomites for a short period of time?

posted by egeanin to Travel & Transportation around Italy (3 answers total)

Cortina d'Ampezzo is gorgeous. When I was there one late summer (a while ago, alas) we took a ski lift to the top of a peak and strolled down, which took a few hours and was lovely. There were other very pretty hikes and walks, seemingly all over the place.
posted by BlahLaLa at 12:59 PM on August 2, 2022

I'd recommend staying in Santa Cristina or Ortisei in val Gardena. A visit to the Odles Peaks, Alpe Di Siusi (both via lift) and a hike around the Sassolungo (bus to the Sella pass) would be ideal. There is a great local bus service in the area and most places you stay will give you a free bus pass.

If you;re feeling adventurous no matter where you stay I would highly recommend doing a via ferrata (you can rent equipment locally) and get a guide if you aren;t confident. Brigada Tridentina is one in Val Gardena that springs to mind as being very fun!
posted by Lucy_32 at 1:38 PM on August 2, 2022

Another vote for Val Gardena & Sasso Lungo. There are a couple aerial trams to bring you to the high country. Rent a bike, explore!
posted by TDIpod at 3:03 PM on August 2, 2022