Why you should consider a visit to the Dolomites

The Dolomites are located to the north east of the Italian Alps. This breathtaking mountain range is jaw-droppingly beautiful both in summer and in winter. Expect to see craggy peaks dusted with snow, high altitude lakes shaded vivid turquoise by glacial flour and lush meadows strewn with wildflowers. Here’s why you should consider a visit to the Dolomites – our picks for some of its most glorious spots.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo

The peaks that form the Tre Cime di Lavaredo are perhaps the Dolomites’ most iconic landmark. In winter, skiers enjoy the powder on the slopes beneath Cima Piccola, Cima Grande and Cima Ovest. When the weather’s warmer, marmots scamper around the meadows to the delight of hikers. It’s no secret, so in peak season this is a busy part of the Dolomites. Come in late spring or early autumn when the crowds have thinned and you might just get it to yourself.

Lago Federa

Lago Federa is simply dazzling on a clear day. That’s got a lot to do with the power of reflection. When you catch sight of the outline of becco di Mezzodi mirrored in the blue water of this Alpine lake, it will take your breath away. Larch trees frame the view in this idyllic spot, adding a splash of gold and orange when the leaves turn in autumn. Aim for a bright, clear day and if you strike it lucky, some would say there’s no better place in the Dolomites.

Monte Piana

Monte Piana’s present day tranquility belies a traumatic past. Over a century ago in World War One, this became a natural fortress as opposing factions hunkered down in the trenches they’d dug on its slopes. Today, a poignant open-air museum tells the story of the conflict between the Austro-Hungarian and Italian armies. To hike the area, there are steep trails along its flanks, but it’s just as satisfying to admire this panorama from a distance.

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Lago di Braies

Instagrammers flock to the wooden jetty of this gorgeous mountain lake in the Fanes-Sennes-Braies nature park, and it’s not hard to see why. Gaze out across its emerald green surface and you’ll be greeted with a view you’ll want to share too. Ironically, such beauty was created from a natural disaster. Debris from a mudflow blocked the outflow of water and created a dam. Today, it’s a peaceful place. You can hire rowing boats in which you can explore its farthest shores

Marmolada

Marmolada is the Dolomites’ highest mountain.Its peak is at 3343 metres above sea level, so tall you can sometimes see it from distant Venice. There are several summits along its ridge; one of them, Punta Rocca can be reached by cable car. On its northern flank you’ll find the largest glacier in the area, the Ghiacciaio della Marmolada, while the steep rockface of its southern face adds even more drama to the panorama.

Lago di Carezza

Lago di Carezza is the jewel of the Val d’Ega. Some call it the Fairytale Lake and it’s easy to see why. In late spring and summer, snow melt tops up the natural spring and water levels are at their highest. In the depths of winter, plummeting temperatures mean it often freezes over and is covered with a thick blanket of snow. Under a blue sky, it’s simply splendid whatever time of year you visit.

Would you like to ski or hike in this delightful corner of Italy? If that’s a yes, here at Mundana we’re waiting for you to get in touch.