A Dolomites Vacation with the Perfect Mix of Luxury & Adventure

The Dolomites span a vast and diverse region, making it challenging to decide exactly what to see—especially if you’re short on time. If you’re visiting during the peak summer season, it’s essential to start your days as early as possible. Not only will you beat the crowds, but you’ll also avoid the frustration of full parking lots and long lines at popular spots. Early mornings in the Dolomites often come with crisp air, golden light, and a peacefulness that disappears by midday.

Here are my top recommendations for unforgettable places to visit and explore:

• Lago di Braies: This picture-perfect lake is easily one of the most photographed spots in the Dolomites, and for good reason. The water shimmers in shades of turquoise and emerald, set against a dramatic backdrop of towering peaks and pine forests. It’s a magical place that feels almost unreal. Don’t miss the chance to walk the loop trail around the lake or rent a traditional wooden boat for a unique perspective.

• Cadini di Misurina: This hike is a true hidden gem that feels like walking through a fantasy world. The jagged, spire-like peaks are mesmerizing, and the trail offers several jaw-dropping viewpoints along the way. It’s not overly long or difficult, but the payoff is extraordinary. A must for photographers and nature lovers alike.

• Tre Cime di Lavaredo: One of the most iconic hikes in all of Italy, Tre Cime features three towering peaks that define the Dolomites skyline. The trailhead starts from the same parking lot as Cadini di Misurina, so you can easily do both in one adventurous day. The loop around the peaks offers sweeping alpine vistas, charming rifugi (mountain huts), and countless photo ops.

• Val di Funes: This serene and picturesque valley is a postcard come to life. With rolling green meadows, quaint alpine farms, and the dramatic Odle mountain group as a backdrop, it’s hard to take a bad photo here. Don’t miss the historic churches of San Giovanni and Santa Maddalena—they’re small but incredibly scenic, especially at sunrise or sunset.

• Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm): The largest alpine meadow in Europe, this high-altitude plateau is known for its wide-open landscapes, blooming wildflowers, and breathtaking views. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing walk, a scenic bike ride, or even a peaceful picnic. The sense of space and calm here is unmatched, and the panoramas go on for miles.

• Seceda: Located in the heart of the Dolomites, Seceda is famous for its dramatic, jagged peaks and panoramic alpine views that are truly unforgettable. Accessible by cable car, it offers scenic hiking trails, ski slopes in winter, and endless photo opportunities year-round. The unique landscape, with its striking ridges and green meadows, makes Seceda a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photographers alike.

After your days of hiking, you can relax back at your hotel spa or pool and take in the views.

The Dolomites are known for their jaw-dropping scenery, but the culinary experiences here are just as unforgettable. Blending Austrian, Tyrolean, and Italian influences, the food in this region is hearty, seasonal, and deeply connected to the land. Whether you’re dining at a sleek Michelin-starred restaurant or enjoying a rustic hut meal with views for days, each spot offers its own unique charm.

• Forestis (elevated forest-to-table fine dining): If you’re staying at Forestis, you’re in for a truly exceptional culinary experience. Dinner is exclusively available to overnight guests, but it’s absolutely worth opting for the half-board package, which includes a seven-course tasting menu each evening. The dishes change nightly and are inspired entirely by the surrounding forest—think wild herbs, locally foraged mushrooms, game meats, and alpine roots reimagined into artful, contemporary plates. Everything is seasonal, sustainable, and beautifully presented.

• Alpina Chalet (cozy, authentic alpine cuisine): Located in the heart of Alpe di Siusi, Alpina Chalet offers traditional South Tyrolean comfort food with a warm, rustic vibe. Think handmade dumplings, rich polenta dishes, tender venison, and homemade desserts like apple strudel and Kaiserschmarrn. It’s the kind of place where you can linger after a day of hiking, glass of wine in hand, watching the light change on the peaks outside. During ski season, it’s a popular après-ski spot right on the slopes with a DJ.

• Baita Sofie Hütte (lunch with a view): At over 2,400 meters above sea level, Baita Sofie Hütte isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a full-on mountaintop experience. Located above the Seceda ridgeline, it’s the perfect lunch spot after a morning of hiking or skiing. The food here is hearty and traditional, featuring mountain favorites like goulash, dumplings, and grilled sausages, paired with Tyrolean wines and panoramic views that will stop you in your tracks.

• Restaurant de Len (modern mountain dining): For a more modern take on Dolomites cuisine, Restaurant de Len in Cortina d’Ampezzo blends upscale alpine design with creative farm-to-table dishes. This Michelin Guide menu is seasonal and refined, featuring locally sourced meats, fresh pastas, and regional produce presented with artistic flair. It’s ideal for a special dinner out or a relaxed but elevated dining experience after a day of exploring Cortina’s charming town center.

• Restaurant Pizzeria Al Passetto (casual pizza joint in Cortina d’Ampezzo): If you’re gluten-free, Al Passetto is a hidden gem that caters beautifully to celiac and gluten-sensitive travelers. Located in Cortina, this casual and welcoming spot serves up celiac-safe pizza with crispy thin crusts and all the traditional toppings you’d expect—from wood-fired margherita to rich truffle and mushroom combos. They take cross-contamination seriously, so you can dine here with confidence while still enjoying that classic Italian pizza experience. They also serve normal pastas and pizzas, so there’s something for everyone!