What's interesting in the Italian Alps in August? Dolomites. Best routes Museums

In the summer, to the sea - how banal. We suggest you change your orientation and go to the mountains, where the air is clean and fresh, and around you there is healing peace and tranquility, which is sometimes vital during a vacation. The Dolomites and its respectable resort of Cortina d'Ampezzo will be a suitable place for a summer mountain holiday, the impressions of which you will share with friends for a long time.

“This is the most beautiful natural architecture in the world” - a brilliant architect wrote about the Dolomites Le Corbusier. Now these white cliffs, hypnotizing with their beauty, are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Coming here in the summer is a special experience, without crowds of skiers and snowboarders, queues for ski lifts and other tourist bustle.

In the summer, everything here somehow goes on as usual: vacationers drink wine and a syringe on the cafe terraces, walk with small dogs along the pedestrian streets, sunbathe in the meadows near the lake and ride bicycles. And, of course, they contemplate the mountains, better than which, as they say, there are only mountains.

The heart of the Dolomites and one of the most picturesque resort towns - Cortina d'Ampezzo, popular even in the last century among wealthy Italians. The most convenient way to get to it is from Venice by car; along the way, for 2.5 hours you can see from the window incredible landscapes of the opening hills and then mountains. The journey from Innsbruck will take approximately the same time and a little longer from Verona.

The Cortina Express bus connects the resort with Venice Airport and Venice-Mestre train station.

In 1956, the resort hosted the Winter Olympic Games for the first time since the war, thus becoming the first Italian Olympic capital. They are certainly very proud of this. The town itself is very cozy, cute and picturesque. On balconies, terraces and in windows - indeed, everywhere - you can see bright flowers, pedestrian streets are lined with paving stones, in the center - according to tradition - there is a small church with a towering bell tower. Everything is in the best alpine traditions.

There are few Russian tourists here in the summer - they are mainly on the coast, and this is another reason to come here on vacation.

The town is surrounded on all sides by the Dolomites. During sunrises and sunsets, the white rocks turn pink, revealing a truly extraordinary landscape that can be photographed day after day - the palette of pink shades is so changeable.

Where to stay

If you ask the locals what best hotel in Cortina, everyone will no doubt call Cristallo Hotel Spa&Golf. The White Palace, located on the edge of the forest just above the city itself, is famous throughout the area. The hotel is more than a hundred years old and during this time it has experienced many significant events and moments.

In the 70s, the local fashionable nightclub Monkey was the place where the golden youth rocked. Champagne flowed like a river, love stories began. At night parties one could meet artists, writers, actors and industrialists. This was an absolute must visit in Cortina d'Ampezzo.

Now the restored Monkey is no longer a place for noisy parties, but rather a lounge area - a cigar room is open here. But guests can always organize their own private party.

Indeed, the hotel feels the romance of yesteryear. Heavy keys to the rooms, frescoes and paintings on the walls, playing the piano in the bar in the evening remind us of it... The moody atmosphere shines through in every piece of furniture, as if referring to the greatness of those years.

The rooms offer views of the beautiful and majestic Mount Tofana, which you can admire while enjoying a cup of coffee on the balcony.

In the panoramic restaurant Gazebo you can try both Italian hits and purely regional dishes of the Dolomites, for example, ravioli with beets, potatoes and turnips - casunziei.

Before dinner, you can go for an aperitif to the bar, where live music plays in the evenings. In addition to the classic cocktails - Aperol Spritz or Bellini - the bar menu includes the signature Cristallo cocktail. It contains pink champagne, lychee liqueur and precious pearl powder, which makes the drink foam a little. The color of the cocktail is reminiscent of the white rocks of the Dolomites at sunset.

After playing golf or trekking in the mountains, you can relax in the spa center, which uses Swiss Transvital cosmetics. The hotel also features a large fitness centre, swimming pool, hammam and Aldo Coppola beauty salon.

Things to do

The Dolomites are no less interesting in summer than in winter. Skis and snowboards are being replaced by mountain bikes and Nordic walking poles. Around Cortina there are kilometers of routes of varying difficulty for cycling and trekking. In the city center you can rent a bicycle, including an e-bike, and take a scenic route through lakes, flower-filled valleys and forests. When choosing a route to Tofana di Rozes, be prepared to meet marmots and chamois.

The Dolomites are also known for excellent conditions for rock climbing; by the way, the film “Cliffhanger” with Sylvester Stallone was filmed here.

Experienced instructors will teach you the basics on training rocks, and if you are no longer a beginner, you can conquer the Cinque Torri or the Via Ferrata routes. You can also combine mountain biking and rock climbing for a real adventure.

Among less extreme entertainment- mountain fishing, golf, yoga and Pilates classes combined with trekking. A must-do is a climb to one of the nearby mountains - Tofana, Cristallo or Faloria, from where you can admire the valley and mountain ranges. If your choice falls on Tofana and its three stages of ascent, plan lunch on Col Druscie in a local panoramic restaurant - the cuisine here is excellent.

History buffs will certainly be interested in the open-air museum dedicated to the First World War. Cortina d'Ampezzo was located directly on the border of Austria-Hungary, and military operations were unfolding nearby. Here you can see real trenches and shelters for troops, military warehouses and fortifications. The museum stretches over 5 km between Lagazuoi, Cinque Torri and Sasso di Stria. You can explore the First World War trail on foot or by bike.

Cortina also houses an astronomical observatory with two domes, equipped with the latest telescopes, where on a clear night you can get closer to the starry sky.

Where to go from Cortina

It is very convenient to explore the beauty of the Dolomites by car - the bus network here is not very well developed. Freedom of movement will allow you to see stunning mountain landscapes, green meadows with grazing cows, lakes and forests.

From Cortina we recommend going to Lake Braies, which amazes with its emerald color. In hot weather you can even swim in it if you are not afraid of cold water. Or at least take a romantic boat ride on the lake.

Among the lakes, it is also worth highlighting Misurina with its views of the extraordinary beauty of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo mountain range.

You can also take a ride to the cute town of Dobbiaco, which is more Austrian than Italian, as well as to the Passo Giau pass, from where you can see the majestic Marmolada - the highest mountain of the Dolomites.

Olga Bebekina, Cortina d'Ampezzo

It will not be a lie if I say that Italy is lucky because it is also blessed with the Alps. Thanks to them, the mild climate of the Apennine Peninsula was formed in Italy; since ancient times they protected from enemy raids, from unsuitable weather conditions. On Christmas Day, the weather is spring throughout Italy, but in the Alps it is quite cold and snowing - a real winter fairy tale is guaranteed. In August, and generally in the summer, when the cities are absolutely breathless, the Alps provide coolness and sunny days.

In summer, I advise you to visit the provinces of Trentino and South Tyrol; more than four million tourists visit them during the season, which is four times the population of the region. Here are several reasons why you should visit the Alps not only in winter, but also in summer.

Summer is the season when the Alpine mountain routes are open. Moreover, the routes are always in order, there are numbering and signs indicating the directions and time of passage of the sections. The work is carried out by Alpine Communities. Trekking enthusiasts go to the Italian Dolomites, popular and famous for their natural beauty. The area here is different from other areas of the Alps. These are the most ancient peaks in the mountains. The Dolomite mountain peaks amaze with their unusual shapes and beautiful colors during sunset. They also do via ferrata here. For beginners, visit the Dolomites in Pala di San Martino. Another one of famous regions for bicycle tracking it is Zillertal.

You can go hiking for a week from the San Pellegrino pass around Val di Fassa through all the dolomite massifs of the area. When traveling with specialists, you will be completely safe. Alpine hospitality is very pleasant, people here are kind and friendly, no one is surprised when a stranger greets him.

Holidays on the lakes. There are enough lakes in the Alps where you can go with the whole family; among the recommended ones, we can highlight Molveno in Trentino, this is a quiet lake with all the conditions created for a quiet family vacation. It's also a good idea to visit the recommended Lake Garda.

Bicycle lovers will also find many routes of all difficulty levels, and it is also possible to organize more simple trips through the valleys for which there is no need to have a mountain bike. For this purpose, there are specially designated paths for safe movement along them with the whole family. The Dolomites are also a popular place for bicycle trekking.

Lovers of thermal springs are attracted by the same Alps, since there have been springs here since the times of the Romans, but they only developed in the second half of the 19th century. Then the entire European elite rested on the waters. The springs are located in the city of Merano, the city is attracted by its climate, rich cultural program and charming landscapes. The quality of the services provided is high, since these resorts are considered the hallmark of the Alps.

Throughout the summer, various holidays and festivals take place in the Alps.

The most striking is the music festival “Sounds of the Dolomites”; concerts take place in the mountains surrounded by the Dolomites. It is also worth visiting the Settembre Rotaliano wine festival in the city of Mezzocorona, where Teroldego is produced, it is considered one of the best wines of the Alpine region.

Reasonable prices for tourists are also considered an undoubted advantage.

An overview photo report of the most beautiful places in the Italian Dolomites. The camera lens captured cozy towns, picturesque rivers, fantastically beautiful lakes, fabulous mountain valleys, winding serpentines and mountain passes.

I was lucky enough to visit the Dolomites twice - in autumn and summer. I will begin my report on this stunning mountainous UNESCO World Heritage Site with a trip in November. Through the window, through the darkness and clouds, the snow-capped peaks of the foothills of the Italian Alps are visible. The plane is landing in Bergamo, it is eleven o'clock in the evening. Having received our 500 Fiat at the airport, we go to the hotel in the Old Town.

Waking up before dawn, I hurried to the walls of Sitta Alta to admire the beautiful morning view from them.

2. Bergamo- a very beautiful and cozy town with beautiful, varied architecture and a unique atmosphere. The old part of the city is located on top of a hill. After having a snack, I climb the highest mountain to look at the Cathedral, the Church of St. Mary Maggiori and the Palace of the Mind. The foggy view turned out to be just what we needed.

3. In November, nature here is replete with rich and bright autumn colors, and the trees beckon to pick their ripe, beautiful and juicy fruits. It’s a pity that only my long-focus lens could reach this persimmon.

4. Before leaving for the Dolomites, we decided to take a walk around the center of the main city. On Sundays there is a festive atmosphere here: fairs, folk festivals and entertainment are everywhere.

5. We take the Venice highway, then go north. The road gradually gains altitude, we turn into Riva del Garda.

The exploration of this picturesque place begins from the observation deck. From here you have a magnificent view of the northern part of Lake Garda. This is where the foothills end and the real Alps begin.

6. The ancient town is very cozy and well-kept. No wonder it is considered one of the best holiday destinations in Italy. But now is not the season. On the almost deserted streets you can only meet lonely pensioners and fishermen. All cafes and restaurants are closed. The picturesque embankment is unusually deserted.

7. As soon as I took the bread out of my backpack, all the birds immediately flew from the area. The sparrows, seagulls and pigeons were so hungry that they snatched pieces right out of our hands and fought for every crumb.

8. But we need to move further towards Austria. The beauty of the mountains in autumn is amazing. Clouds hang over the well-groomed green slopes, yellow vineyards add contrast to the already picturesque pictures. The Alps at this time of year resemble puzzles, the pattern of which on each individual mountain is original.

9. On almost every rock, under the very clouds, they build the most beautiful medieval castles and at home.

10. Before Bolzano, we left the highway and climbed the serpentine road into the mountains to enjoy the beautiful scenery, take a walk and breathe in the purest mountain air. Beauty surrounds us on all sides, and we are among the clouds.

11. The next morning we were to find ourselves in Dandelion Valley...

It's dark outside. Thick clouds surrounded the mountain valley of the city of Bolzano. There is a light drizzle outside. The soft and warm bed does not let me out of its embrace into the cool and damp autumn mountains. No matter how much I would like it, I have to get up and follow the planned program. After breakfast, we leave for one of the most beautiful places in the Dolomites, this is. Having left the main road, we rushed up the seemingly endless mountain serpentine. The dark sky, which had recently hung overhead, now appeared before my eyes. It gets light very slowly. The higher we rise, the denser the clouds become.

12. To be honest, I imagined the morning in Dandelion Valley in a different light (orange sun, curly clouds and other beauty). But now it’s the end of November outside the window - a time of heavy snowfalls. The weather makes its own adjustments and we have to be content with such a cloudy and foggy morning.

13. In the Dandelion Valley there is a wonderful village -. After some wandering we find ourselves there. Friendly locals in Tyrolean attire are already wishing us good morning. Some of them are already chopping wood at such an early hour, and some are starting the tractor, the workers have begun repairing the road, a team of woodcutters is ready to go to the plot. A police car also showed up. Why is she in these parts? This is probably the most peaceful place on the entire planet; it would be better if they were sent somewhere to Sicily :)

14. Santa Magdalena is a very pleasant and quiet place at the foot of magnificent mountain ranges, with beautiful alpine houses, many beautiful flowers on the streets in the summer, households, churches, rivers. We climb to the observation deck to admire the fantastic view of the mountain peaks. Below in the frame you can see the wonderful three-thousanders: Sass Rigais and Furchetta, which did not dare to peek out from behind the clouds :) Sad, but still beautiful.

15. I had to turn on the “time machine” and move forward seven months. I found myself in someone's garden without permission and was impressed by the sunset light. And you, dear readers, which view do you like best?

16. Sharp dolomite teeth strive to grab some lush cloud, shining with a stunningly beautiful rainbow in the warm evening light. Such beauty is everywhere here.

18. Let’s finish our inspection of this most picturesque valley, in which I never saw dandelions. We go back down and then climb the most beautiful Alpine passes.

19. We had to go around twice. Having climbed a little uphill, the road forked, and the sign read: “If you go left, you will get to the Passo Gardena pass, if you go right, you will get to the Passo Sella pass.”

In November the lot fell on Sella. From 1500 meters the road rose through the clouds to the 2200 mark. The snow increased with each turn of the road. From somewhere out of the clouds, illuminated by the sun, creamy sheer cliffs could be seen.

20. One thing was good - the road was cleared, and there was only ice in places. The magnificent view of the winter snow-capped Alps was worth such an extreme trip. Having risen above the clouds, we saw the sun for the first time in 2 days.

21. Having left this pass and overcome a couple more similar ones, we finally found ourselves in the capital of the 1956 Winter Olympic Games - the city of Cortina d'Ampezzo. This is a panoramic view of the city and mountain valley.

22. Returning to my “time machine”... It’s July again. At the fork in Val Gardena I turn left. It's already dark. I climb to the 2100 mark, to the Passo Gardena pass. Despite the middle of summer, it’s only +4 outside. I spend the night in a hotel at the pass.

23. The morning begins, as always, early. Climbing onto one of the slopes, a magnificent view of the serpentine rising from the Gardena Valley opened up in front of me.

24. This beautiful chapel on the pass was built already in this century. It fits well into the beautiful mountain landscape.

25. Next to it are these barracks (or maybe huts or barns). If it weren’t for the mountains in the background, I would have thought that this was the Russian outback, and not the center of Europe.

26. Having left the Passo Gardena pass, I headed along a winding and narrow gorge to the village of La Valle.

27. The smell of manure, which is dumped here right along the road, immediately made me feel the village flavor. But it in no way affected the positive impression of this wonderful place.

28. Having climbed to the very top, the road ended, I got out of the car to admire the magnificent view of the mountain valley. A black domestic cat kept me company.

29. La Valle reminded me a lot of Dandelion Valley. Very beautiful place, where you can be away from the urban jungle, breathe clean mountain air and admire fantastic mountain landscapes.

30. I won’t linger here, there is still a very busy program ahead. After making a couple more stops, I headed further. After driving another 15 kilometers the road took me to banks of the Rienza River.

31. The next place I visited was the pearl of the Dolomites -. It is located at an altitude of almost 1500 meters above sea level. Anyone planning a route through the Alpine corners of Italy should definitely visit here.

32. Having difficulty finding a space in three equipped parking lots, I went for a walk along the shore of the emerald lake. People are brought here by bus, so you don’t feel lost far in the mountains. The path along the lake resembles the sidewalk of a decent city.

33. However, this in no way detracts from the beauty of Lago di Braes and does not cause discomfort. You can walk around the lake in about an hour, covering a distance of about 5 kilometers. It’s a pity that the weather was cloudy without a single hint of daylight.

34. After taking a walk, I headed to the car, but a nearby cafe beckoned me with fresh and fragrant pastries, so I had to stay here for half an hour to have lunch and then visit another lake located nearby. Meet - .

35. In November, we were caught in a terrible snowfall here, but we looked at the beautiful swans, which were supposed to fly away towards the warm Adriatic any day now.

37. My route was built in a different way, but a camera tripod forgotten in La Valle made adjustments and the next place I ended up in was. There is still snow on the pass even in July.

38. After admiring Lake Valparola from above, I decided to come closer to its shore. As soon as I got closer, I noticed some kind of creature scurrying around near the shore. From a distance it was difficult to identify him. The “long” lens, reserved for such cases, helped me.

39. I read on the Internet that if you are very lucky, you can meet Alpine marmots in the Dolomites. It turns out I was lucky. However, as soon as I tried to get closer to him, he immediately hid behind numerous stones. This photo is from the series find the groundhog :)

40. Now I’ll tell you about another Dolomite lake. From the city of Bolzano there is a direct road to it, which begins with a three-kilometer tunnel. The lake itself is about 25 kilometers away. On the way I make a stop in Welschnofen to take a closer look at the interesting chapel.

41. and it greeted me very cloudy and rainy in places. Hopes for good weather there was almost none, so we had to be content with such corpulent species

42. Decided to go back and drink coffee in the parking lot. The miracle happened in about 15 minutes. The clouds suddenly retreated and the sun finally illuminated the water surface of the lake.

43. This shot of the Lattemar Mountains in the reflection of Lake Carreza took second place in one of the National Georgaphic photo competitions.

44. Having traveled around the Dolomites enough, I headed towards probably the most picturesque mountain range, Tre Cime Di Lavaredo, to meet the Alpine sunset there. Having safely crossed the Tre Croci pass, I found myself near. Standing on the shore of Misurina with a cup of tea and hot apple strudel, bought in a store on a nearby street, I admire the stunning view of the mountain lake.

45. Having traveled only a few kilometers up, I found myself on another lake called Antorno.

46. ​​Carpets of colorful and fragrant alpine flowers and herbs surround almost all the shores of this fabulous lake. The weather was magnificent, and towards evening it finally cleared up.

47. At the risk of missing the last rays of the long-awaited sun, I rise up from Antorno. A barrier blocks my way. Having paid 20 euro rubles, I pass through. Having wound 15 turns of the serpentine I was already familiar with, I found myself somewhere in a rain cloud, and the thermometer was again +4. Auronzo's hostel-shelter, located 100 meters from me, was barely visible. Hello, we've arrived! Where is the sun that was shining in my face 10 minutes ago? Where is the sunset and the most important question: where, in fact, is the trident of Tre Cime di Lavaredo itself? Of course, I’m not one of those people who gets discouraged, but I clearly wanted to see something else here. Having left some things at the shelter, I went straight to the cloud for luck in the hope of seeing at least something...

48. After walking half a kilometer, the cloud suddenly ended, and the majestic mountain peaks of Lavaredo loomed above me. On the way, I came across this beautiful chapel, which was built right on the edge of the abyss. The area of ​​light around her seemed very symbolic to me.

49. Stunning mountain landscapes are everywhere here, just have time to turn your head and press the camera buttons. Having jumped over a small pass, I finally saw the other side. I saw it exactly as I had imagined it. This is what a sunset in the Alps looks like.

50. However, the miracle did not last long; in this light I was able to take only a few shots, as the sun first disappeared behind the clouds, and then behind the neighboring mountain peaks. But thanks for that too. At the foot there are three small lakes “no name” with crystal clear glacial water.

51. Before dark I had to get to Auronzo’s shelter. The route “around Tre Cime” turned out to be about nine kilometers.

52. The next place I will visit is a magnificent one, hidden in the mountains.

53. After Cortina, D’Ampezzo had to slow down and look for the right path. Fortunately, there was an information stand and signs near it. Leaving the car right on the side of the road, I began the six-kilometer climb.

54. At first the track was relatively flat and passed near a beautiful mountain gorge. Having crossed the bridge, I came across a very steep mountain, which I had to climb. A challenge worthy of a good workout.

55. I have already seen a lot of things in the Dolomites, but Feder will be remembered for its unique and unlike anything else landscapes and atmosphere of alpine tranquility.

56. I went down to the car much faster and headed towards the already mentioned Valparola Pass. Having not reached it a little, I left the car in the parking lot next to the deployed division of NATO troops and began the two-kilometer climb to Lake Limides.

57. Along the way, I repeatedly came across fortifications from the First World War. Due to its accessibility, this route is very popular, especially among tourists with children.

58. not very large - only 100 meters in length. It is surrounded on all sides by magnificent mountain ranges. The springs gushing at the bottom of the lake create the illusion of heterogeneity and multi-colored water.

59. The Cinque Torri mountain is just a stone's throw from here.

60. You can climb to its foot either by ski lift or by car. Since the ski lift ends quite early, I drove up the mountain by car. The one-kilometer walk to the foot of the Cinque Torri, naturally, was not difficult.

61. There is an open-air museum of the First World War here. There are trenches and dugouts everywhere.
The dugouts have been reconstructed, mannequins of soldiers and replicas of weapons from those times are on display.

62. The highest peak has a height of 2361 meters. About five years ago, this massif was partially destroyed - a huge boulder broke off from the second peak and fell. Climbers constantly train on the steep cliffs of the Cinque.

This is the last place from my report. I planned to stay here until late in the evening, but the fickle wind again brought in numerous clouds from somewhere, and it began to rain. Realizing that this was the Dolomites’ way of saying “Goodbye!” to me, I got into the car and set off on a multi-hour drive to the Adriatic coast...

Last year, one extremely significant event happened in my life - I fell in love! And finally, irrevocably and at first sight - in general, in the best traditions. The object of my feelings was the northeastern part Italian mountains, which bears the beautiful name Dolomiti, in Russian - Dolomite Alps. I remember them not only for their incredible beauty, but also for some authenticity - this place is not yet completely teeming with tourists.

By car

Many tourists travel to the Dolomites region directly by car from Russia - I saw many cars with Moscow and St. Petersburg license plates.

From Moscow

If we take the city of Bolzano as the end point - although not the very heart of the mountain range, but a fairly large settlement, you can see that the route from the capital of our vast homeland is almost 2600 km, and it will take more than a day.

From St. Petersburg

The distance to Bolzano is shorter in terms of mileage - a little more than 2500 km, but in terms of time, on the contrary, it is longer - 28 hours.

If you follow this route, you will pass through the territory of all three Baltic countries - Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, as well as Poland, Germany, Austria and Italy.

Clue:

Dolomites - the time is now

Hour difference:

Moscow 1

Kazan 1

Samara 2

Ekaterinburg 3

Novosibirsk 5

Vladivostok 8

When is the season? When is the best time to go

Dolomites in summer

In the summer in the Dolomites, the mark on the thermometer stays around +20-25°C. As for me, this is ideal weather - when you don’t need to look for shade to hide from the stuffiness. This temperature is perfect for various active activities (hiking, cycling) and even for a regular walk around the cities.

It is also worth mentioning that sometimes it rains in the region and the sky is overcast - in such weather there is no point in going to the mountains, it is better to try to wait a little - the weather can change in just one and a half to two hours.

Dolomites in autumn

In autumn, it becomes much cooler in the mountains; the thermometer usually drops to +15°C in September-October, and to +10°C in November. It can be especially chilly in the mornings - on the 10th of October, it was only +5 degrees outside the window. In addition, the first snow may fall as early as the middle of this month, although this usually occurs closer to November.

I think that the first weeks of autumn are almost... best time to visit the region, since most of the tourists go home, but the nature is still beautiful and the temperature is comfortable. By the way, golden autumn here the truth shimmers with all shades of this color.

Dolomites in spring

In spring, it is still cool in the region, and especially in the mountains, and the temperature warms up only in May - to about +15°C. In March it sometimes still snows, and in 2016 at night the thermometer showed about 10°C below zero.

However, gradually there are more and more sunny days, flowers bloom, various plants begin to bloom, and soon skiers in the mountains are replaced by hikers - this, one might say, symbolizes the approach of the summer season in the Dolomites.

Dolomites in winter

Winter in the region is usually not too cold - the temperature usually stays around -5-10°C, but sometimes drops to -20°C. However, according to statistics, there are more sunny days here than cloudy ones – 8°C versus 2 out of 10.

At the tops of the mountains, the sun shines so brightly that most skiers and snowboarders are forced to use sunscreen, but still return home after relaxing with a slightly tanned face.

Clue:

Dolomites - weather by month

Conditional areas. Descriptions and features

In fact, there are no regions in the Dolomites - except that the region can be roughly divided into “mountains” and “cities”.

Mountains

In fact, this is where the main attractions of the region are located - lakes, hiking trails, cycling routes, amazing views. From December to mid-spring, ski resorts operate here, attracting thousands of winter sports enthusiasts to the region. I will tell you more about them at the very end of the article, but one thing you need to know for sure is that the local resorts are not inferior in quality of pistes and infrastructure to those located on the border with France, and they are somewhat more pleasant in price.

The only peculiarity I can note is that in the warm season the weather here, as I already said, can change in an hour and a half. Therefore, when going to the mountains, be sure to check the forecast for the day, even if the sun is shining brightly in the morning. In addition, it is worth knowing that there are excellent hotels here with high-quality service, magical views from the windows and, as in any other place, an appropriate price - from 120-130 EUR per night and ad infinitum (you can compare room prices and book the one you like convenient on ). But I advise you to look at something else - try staying at least one night in a gasthaus. They can usually be found in Germany or Austria, but given their proximity to the latter and their shared historical past, it is not surprising that they appeared here too. A gashouse is a house whose owners live in it or somewhere nearby, and the rooms are rented out to guests. This housing option will help you truly feel the atmosphere of South Tyrol, and fresh pastries in the morning from the hostess will leave the most “delicious” impressions! In addition, for those traveling by car, a pleasant moment will be the fact that, unlike city hotels, there is free parking near guesthouses in 99% of cases. You can search for offers, for example, .

Cities

As for recreation in cities, it should include large settlements, which, although not located directly in the Dolomites, are still surrounded by them - these are, first of all, Bolzano, Brixen, Trento, Udine, and dozens of smaller ones . There is more choice of places to live here, but, as a result, there are more “urban” problems - we immediately felt this when we had to pay 20 EUR for parking next to our hotel in Bolzano. There are, of course, positive factors - more options for cultural pastime - museums, exhibitions, in the end, a regular walk around the city and sightseeing, a large selection of cafes and restaurants.

In a word, unlike the mountainous areas, here you can always find something to do if you are unlucky with the weather. It seems to me that those who travel around the region by public transport should definitely stay in a hotel near the train or bus station.

What are the prices for holidays?

As in any other place, prices in the Dolomites region directly depend on your pastime and your preferences - there are always many different options to suit every taste and budget. I’ll tell you briefly about the most important ones in this section.

Hotels

Prices per night in double room two- or three-star hotels range on average from 50 to 80 EUR, but you can always find more cheap option or vice versa - expensive and luxurious. As I already said, consider staying in a gasthof - very authentic and quite budget-friendly.

Active pastime

As for, for example, hiking - my favorite form of recreation in the mountains in the warm season, here you can also save a lot if you start your journey not from the last stop of the ski lift, but from the very bottom - but you need to understand that this method will take much more time , and it requires a certain amount of physical training.

Getting around the region

You can greatly ease your travel budget when it comes to moving around the region. The sooner you buy train or bus tickets, the cheaper they will be. Also, if you are planning to rent a car, try to make a reservation as early as possible - the closer to the desired date, the more expensive the rental will be. I strongly advise you to find free or at least inexpensive parking lots in advance near the places where you are going to leave your car - as practice shows, this expense item is often omitted by travelers, and then, parking after parking lot, more than a dozen EUR are spent on it.

Cafes, restaurants and their alternatives

If you eat in cafes and restaurants 2-3 times every day, even small and inexpensive ones, there is a high probability of spending a fabulous amount of money on food during the entire trip. To avoid this, consider staying in an apartment. In this case, you will have to spend time preparing food, but you can save a lot on restaurants, which is usually the largest component of the travel budget after spending on tickets and accommodation.

Main attractions. What to see

You could probably spend your whole life in the Dolomites and still not have time to see everything that the region is so rich in. In this section, I will try to talk about what must be included in the must-see list when planning a trip to northern Italy in order to get the most complete picture of this area in a relatively short period of time.

Top 3

The main attraction of the Dolomites is nature and everything that has been created by it. That is why all three points in my “top” are connected specifically with it, and not with the results of human activity.

By the way, a little hint. If you suddenly worry that you won’t be able to take a souvenir photo from this place from the right angle, write down: (I think that you will find the church itself without problems, so I’ll start from there) stand facing its entrance, turn left and further, keeping a little to the left, walk literally 500-600 meters uphill. When the road turns left, you will see a bench - it was the view from this place that I found most photogenic.

Beaches. Which ones are better

Since the Dolomites do not have access to large water, there are no sea beaches here - for them you need to go to neighboring regions (you will read about them in just a few paragraphs). And you won’t surprise anyone with a holiday at sea - it’s hot, stuffy, crowded. It’s either the lake’s fault – the pleasant coolness, the absence of flashy sweet sellers and massage therapists. That's what I thought until I faced reality :)

The fact is that I have been to Austrian lakes more than once and I absolutely love this type of vacation - peace and quiet are guaranteed, for me this is the best way to relax. Inspired by this experience, I dedicated one day of our trip to relaxing on the lake. My “victim” was Lago di Braies - I read somewhere that in the summer there is very little there. Alas, my expectations were not destined to come true.

Firstly, the water there is not only cool, but very cold. Secondly, yes, I dreamed of privacy, but I never expected that it would be only on the water - that is, there were numerous tourists walking around the lake itself, which did not contribute much to the authentic atmosphere. And thirdly, there was no infrastructure for swimming - no sun loungers, no sand, no changing cabins... perhaps I expected too much, or maybe I chose the wrong lake. But at none of the others where I was later, I did not see people swimming - and after that I concluded that the lakes of the Dolomites are not very suitable for relaxation on them - it is much better to sail on them by boat or admire them from the shore.

Churches and temples. Which ones are worth visiting?

Since Italians are one of the most religious peoples in Europe, there is at least a small church in almost every city. Personally, I was most impressed by two religious sites.

Museums. Which ones are worth visiting?

Frankly speaking, I am not a “museum” person, and the Dolomites are not with the Louvre or the Prado, where museums are part of the compulsory program. The Dolomites are primarily about nature. But since nature sometimes throws up unpleasant surprises in the form of bad weather, instead of the planned hiking we had to quickly come up with an alternative pastime on the spot.

• Somehow it turns out that despite the fact that I am not a lover of contemporary art, I visit the relevant museums quite often - and Bolzano was no exception. Museumon, or Museum of Contemporary Art Bolzano was opened in 1985. The first exhibitions were dedicated to the history of Tyrol, then works by Italian artists were presented there, and today's exhibitions tell visitors about modern cinema, architecture, and even theaters. The museum building itself receives special praise - made in a futuristic style, it is a work of art in itself. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm, and on Thursday until 10 pm. For adults, admission costs 7 EUR, for students and pensioners - 3.50 EUR.

• In addition, we managed to visit Archaeological Museum Bolzano. It will certainly appeal to history buffs, since it presents various things that seem to themselves retell the stages of development of the region since ancient times. Particular attention of visitors is paid to the mummy of Otzi - the ice man, Iceman. This exhibit, for a second, is more than 5 thousand years old - it was discovered in the early 90s in the Dolomites. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm in all months except July, August and December - during which time it is open daily. Entrance ticket costs 9 EUR, for students and pensioners - 7 EUR.

Parks

On the territory of the Dolomites there are several national and natural parks - both large and very small. The most famous and at the same time the most beautiful (in my humble opinion) are the Dolomiti Bellunesi Park and the Tre Cime Park.

Neighboring regions

At the very beginning of the article, I said that according to the administrative-territorial division of Italy, the Dolomites are not a separate region. They are located in the territory of Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia, which, in turn, border Lombardy and Emilia Romagna.

Nearby Islands

Since the Dolomites, as I already mentioned, are landlocked, talking about the nearest islands is completely pointless :)

Food. What to try

The proximity to Austria and shared history greatly influenced the traditional cuisine of the region. While in a restaurant, at some point it may seem to you that you are far from being in Italy - traditional pizza and pasta are not on the first pages of the menu, and for some reason the waiters do not say “prego”. Instead of lasagna, you will be offered national Tyrolean dishes - dumplings, dumplings, various soups (they even eat goulash here!), and you will be advised to replace tiramisu with - what would you think? Of course, apple strudel - it will certainly be served with ice cream. But do not think that the local cuisine is exclusively borrowed from its German-speaking neighbor - there is also a lot of Italian here. For example, antipasti - traditional Italian snacks - have been preserved here. Most often these are olives, black olives, bruschetta with a variety of flavors, cheeses, and baked vegetables. The region's favorite Italian dishes are risotto, ravioli, meat and fresh fish dishes.

The owner of the guesthouse where we stayed for a couple of nights gave us one very important hint in choosing the right place for lunch or dinner. He said that if you want to try the real traditional cuisine of the region, and not end up in the usual tourist place, of which there are plenty all over the world and which cannot be distinguished from each other, firstly, pay attention to the menu language. Only German? Great, you've come to the right place! German and Italian? Also very good. But if the menu is provided in English, or worse, in Russian, then you should look for another place. Secondly, according to him, everyone’s favorite pizzas and pastas at the very beginning of the menu can be an alarm bell. He argued that after the multilingual menu, this is the main signal that the establishment is aimed at tourists who are not too interested in the culture of the region. However, this indicator personally did not seem too important to me - if I love pizza and enjoy eating it in Russia, why shouldn’t I eat it in its homeland? Even if they don’t speak Italian there.

Features of mentality

The proximity of Austria also influenced the mentality of the local residents - they are much more hardworking, law-abiding and less hot-tempered than, say, southerners. In general, the population of the Dolomites is very similar to the people who live in neighboring regions -,. Residents of provinces such as Campania claim that the northerners are so immersed in their work that they do not know how to enjoy life at all, that they are boring, unfriendly and inhospitable people. Perhaps the author of such a statement met with some wrong northerners, but always when we, getting lost or simply in need of help, asked local residents for advice, they happily gave answers to all our questions. Therefore, we did not notice any snobbery, but perhaps this manifests itself in other situations - I cannot say. But I’ll tell you for sure – they definitely won’t leave you alone here in trouble.

Holidays

To be honest, I have never heard of any unique holidays that are celebrated exclusively in the Dolomites and nowhere else in Italy. However, people are talking about how the New Year celebrations take place here! Since a huge number of skiers come to the region precisely on the eve of the main winter holiday, local resorts try to put on an incredible show for their guests. Fireworks, restaurants, concerts, festive celebrations until late at night, colorful, magically decorated streets will be remembered by tourists for a long time. At the same time, it must be said that the local population itself does not particularly celebrate the New Year - Christmas is much preferable for them. It, like almost everywhere else in Europe, takes place with family, no one goes out to restaurants, but at the same time the streets are magically decorated, but you yourself have probably heard a hundred times about the cozy pre-Christmas Europe.

New Year's holidays in the Dolomites have two disadvantages, and quite significant ones - prices and the number of tourists. Not only does the cost of a room in a more or less decent hotel start from 100-120 EUR per night, but it is almost impossible to get it shortly before the required dates. Therefore, start looking for a place to stay almost a year in advance - this is the only way to book a room in a good hotel at a good price. But, alas, nothing can be done about the queues on the slopes.

Safety. What to watch out for

Since Bolzano has been leading the list of the most comfortable cities in Italy for several years, I think there is no point in talking about safety in the city itself - this is not something you need to worry about. Another thing is safety on the slope.

• Be sure to purchase special medical insurance, which covers injuries from extreme species sports
• Moreover, no matter whether you are a professional or a beginner, always ride with a helmet.
• When arriving at a ski resort for the first time, do not skimp and invest in a few lessons with an instructor. After this, do not overestimate your capabilities and do not try to conquer black slopes right away - start with simple flat ones, and then slowly move on to steeper ones.
• Even if you like to leave the main roads and, so to speak, conquer the unconquered, I ask you, be sure to follow the signs, because they are there solely for your safety.

Things to do

Despite the fact that people mainly come to the Dolomites to enjoy all the gifts of nature and solitude with it, this region has a lot to offer alternative options rest - active and not very active.

Shopping and shops

Well, I'll be honest. For me, the Dolomites are about spending time actively, about conquering mountain peaks in trekking boots, and somehow shopping didn’t really fit into such a program. But if suddenly you want to combine almost incompatible things and have a couple of days left, then, of course, you are welcome to. Fortunately, it is not so far away - only 3 hours drive from Dolomites. You can read more about shopping in the world fashion capital.

If you think that leaving Italy without shopping is not comme il faut, and for one reason or another you are not going to go to, then go to. There are two streets here - Lauben and Dr Streiter Lane, where you will find boutiques of world-famous clothing and shoe brands, as well as shops of unknown local designers with very cute and high-quality items. In addition, take a look at the Greif Center shopping center - during the discount period you can find branded clothing at ridiculous prices, but the rest of the time it amazes with the variety of brands.

Bars

In more or less large cities, you can go to a bar in the evening and spend a couple of hours trying local cocktails. Spirits drinkers should check out the Flieger, a mix of Red Bull and vodka, while those who don't want to get too crazy tend to drink cocktails like the Estivo (white wine + sparkling water) or Bellini (prosecco + peach puree). In most establishments the prices are not high - from 3 to 6 EUR per cocktail. As such, there are no special rules for visiting the region - but it is better to replace hiking boots and a tracksuit with jeans, a shirt or a T-shirt.

Clubs and nightlife

They say that there are so many clubs in Bolzano that people even come here to “hang out” on weekends. Frankly speaking, I am not at all strong in this area of ​​recreation, so I suggest you familiarize yourself with the list of recommended establishments in the article.

Active pastime

In this area, guests of the region definitely have somewhere to roam! In winter, this is, of course, alpine skiing and snowboarding, but I will talk about them in detail at the very end of the article.

If you are traveling in the warm season, first of all, you have at your disposal the already mentioned hiking and trekking a thousand times. By the way, if suddenly you don’t know the difference between them - it lies in the fact that the first is a short-lived walking through mountainous areas, most often this is a one-day route, but sometimes it involves spending the night in a tent or house (rifugio). Trekking is a much more serious activity, you go to the mountains for several days with a large backpack filled with provisions, and spend the night in houses or special base camps. Hiking is much more popular in the Dolomites, but trekking lovers will also be able to find routes to suit their taste.

In addition, hiking can sometimes be combined with relaxation on the lakes. So, on Lake Braies, which I already mentioned, you can not only freeze in the water, but also ride a boat and walk around the lake. Usually people come to the lake for some 15-20 minutes, take a couple of photos as a souvenir and move on, but I strongly recommend that you spend two hours on Braies - during this time you will have time to move away from the crowd of tourists and examine the lake from all sides - It is from there that the most beautiful, seemingly unearthly views open up. In addition to Braies, I highly recommend seeing Lake Misurina, which is not far from Tre Cime - a very peaceful and calm place.

Cycling enthusiasts will appreciate the cycling routes in the Dolomites. In almost all large settlements you can rent such a vehicle and ride it both around the city and in the mountains. The rental cost always varies, but on average does not exceed 7-12 EUR per day. I rented a bicycle from an official travel company in , and this pleasure cost, if I’m not mistaken, about 5 EUR per day.

Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift

Not a single tourist trip can do without this, of course. Frankly speaking, the Dolomites did not surprise me personally with anything special in this regard - but in addition to the standard magnets and postcards that you will find in any souvenir shop, take a closer look at wines like Vino Santo and Trentodoc and local cheeses in delicatessen shops.

But in fact, the best thing you can bring back from a trip to the Dolomites is hundreds, if not thousands of photographs, gigabytes of videos, many interesting stories and vivid memories.

How to get around the region

The easiest way to get around the region is by car, but the public transport system is very, very well developed, so don't be upset if you can't rent a car.

Taxi. What features exist

In the mountains, the taxi system is not developed at all (which is logical), and in local cities it is best to travel on foot. But, for example, if you need to get from the airport to the city, then this is a good option. However, this pleasure is expensive - for example, a taxi from Bolzano airport to the city center costs about 30 EUR.

Public transport

The Dolomites have an excellent public transport system, and this site will help you figure it out. In addition, I advise you to use the RomeToRio website. Using them you can create a route from almost any point in the region to the place you need, since they cover not only the railway line, but also the bus line.

Travel tickets are not too expensive - for example, the route from Brixen to Lake Braies costs about 11 EUR, and the bus from Ortisei costs only 6 EUR.

Transport rental

A car is, of course, the best opportunity to see everything there is in the Dolomites and to get to places that cannot be reached by public transport. There is no need to adjust to train schedules that do not always run at the right time for you. The car also allows you to select attractions on the trip route based on interest, and not on transport accessibility.

You can rent a car at any airport immediately after arrival, as well as in any major city in the region. The following documents are needed for this:

• Driver's license.
• Foreign passport.
• Credit card.
• Moreover, it is necessary that your driving experience be at least one year.

You can search for offers in advance on the Internet (for example,).

During vacation, of course, you don’t want to think about possible problems and difficulties and relax as much as possible. But if you travel by car, and especially in the mountains, then you automatically take on some responsibility, so I think it would not be amiss to remind you of the important points for drivers.

Driving in the mountains requires some preparation, so don’t expect that you can just relax and drive along an empty highway to your favorite music - you must always be extremely attentive and careful.

Traffic rules in the Dolomites and Italy are generally quite similar to Russian ones. In populated areas you can drive at a speed of no more than 50 km/h, on country roads - 110 km/h, on toll highways - 130 km/h. Fines in Italy are quite high - for speeding you have to pay from 40 to 3300 EUR, for illegal parking - from 35 to 90 EUR.

As for toll roads, there is only one - A22. There is no set price, so to understand how much you will have to pay, multiply the tariff unit, which depends on the class of your vehicle (for example, for a passenger car it is 0.08432 EUR/km) by the number of kilometers traveled, and then add 22% VAT.

And finally - as of July 2017, one liter of 95 gasoline costs 1.62 EUR, diesel - 1.51 EUR.

Dolomites - holidays with children

In the Dolomites I saw many families with children, and they all looked quite happy with life, did not cry or scream. Based on this, I can conclude that you can and should go here with little travelers! If your children love active pastime, then they will like walks in the mountains, but choose not too difficult paths - the kids can get tired and ruin the mood for both themselves and you. If you are traveling to the region in winter, be sure to enroll your children in a ski school or with a separate instructor. In a word, there is freedom here for little fidgets - they often return to the hotel in the evening already half asleep, which is rather a good sign. As one of my friends says: “Sleeping children make happy parents!”

As for the cultural program, in the aforementioned Museum of Contemporary Art in Bolzano, various educational programs are organized for the youngest connoisseurs of beauty, where children are told about the history of art and the importance of cultural development and are given the opportunity to create something wonderful themselves in various master classes.

Ski holiday

Ski resorts are the main reason why travelers from all over the world travel to the Dolomites in winter. This region is called Dolomiti Superski, and it unites 12 ski areas - Val Gardena, Val di Fassa, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Kronplatz, Alta Badia, Arraba Marmolada, Val di Fiemme, San Martino, Civetta, Alta Pusteria, Vale Isarco and Tre Valley. In such a large space you will find tracks for both professionals and not yet fully experienced athletes.

It doesn’t matter if you are completely new to this area - here you have the opportunity to learn skiing or snowboarding completely from scratch - there are several ski schools at the resort, where you can enroll in a group or hire a personal instructor. This is not a cheap pleasure - an hour of private lessons costs from 30 to 40 EUR. But it is very important not to skimp on this in order to avoid injuries and other unpleasant situations.

Ski passes

The Dolomiti Superski system combines 12 ski areas, 1,200 km of pistes of various levels and 450 lifts, and all this requires a single ski pass. Sounds like a dream vacation, doesn't it? With just one card you get so much variety and amazing options.

It is not very profitable to buy a ski pass for one day - it costs 47 EUR. It’s a bit expensive, and you won’t have time to appreciate all the diversity of the resort. It would be more correct to immediately purchase a card for the entire duration of your stay in the region - for example, a ski pass for a week costs 250 EUR, and in this case one day of skiing will cost you only 35 EUR, and for 10 days - 335 EUR, and then a day pass will cost you to you at 33.5 EUR.

Trails

The slopes in the Dolomites are very well maintained, equipped with modern lifts and, importantly, quite varied! Beginner skiers and snowboarders will feel comfortable here, and professional and experienced athletes will enjoy the large selection of black and red sections of the slopes, where they can hone their skills and pretty tickle their nerves - I hope, only in the good sense of the word. To avoid unpleasant situations, firstly, be sure to purchase special insurance in advance, even if you “ride a hundred times and everything was fine.” And secondly, adequately and soberly assess your strengths and capabilities. Even if you are confident on skis/snowboards, ski down the mountain on a new section for the first time carefully and slowly, so to speak, get to know the route. And after a successful “acquaintance” you can ride like a breeze :)

5 must-do things in this region

1. Fulfill the must-dos of every tourist and climb to the three peaks in the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Natural Park.
2. Stroll through the cozy streets of small towns, as if lost among the mighty Alps.
3. Take a photo with a classic view of the village of Santa Maddalena.
4. Take a boat ride on the magical Lake Braies.
5. Fall in love with the Dolomites and promise yourself to come back here again!

Italians know how to live, relax and receive guests. The northern Italian region of Trentino is a great place to experience Italian hospitality. This mountainous region famous for its clean air and stunning scenery, as well as good transport infrastructure and cozy hotels.

Trentino ski resorts are considered one of the best in the world: there are thousands of kilometers of equipped slopes for skiing and snowboarding, as well as dozens of snow parks and many places for off-piste skiing. Many resorts are united into extensive ski areas. The largest of them are Dolomiti Superski - 1200 km of slopes, and Skirama Dolomiti Adamello Brenta - 380 km.

Each ski area has kindergartens for children, gentle slopes for little skiers, and specially trained instructors and educators. The best places For a family holiday in Trentino, Paganella, Alpe Cimbra, Val Rendena, and the cozy villages of the Val di Fiemme and Val di Fassa valleys are considered.

What to do besides skiing?

Most tourists come to Trentino in winter to ski and snowboard. But you can diversify your holiday in Trentino with other winter sports and cultural activities.

Go cross-country skiing

A network of prepared ski slopes literally entangles the entire region. Beginner skiers can take lessons from professional instructors.

The general SuperNordicSkipass is valid at 12 ski centers in Trentino, as well as 6 centers in the neighboring regions of Veneto and Emilia Romagna. In total, its owners can ski on 470 km of equipped and illuminated trails. Children under 10 years old have free admission.

Go snowshoeing

The third most popular winter activity after alpine skiing and cross-country skiing is snowshoeing. At each Trentino resort you can rent the necessary equipment and arrange a walk in the mountains with a guide.

No special equipment or training is required for snowshoeing, and the equipment is basic and easy to use. The trails vary in difficulty and are fairly well marked in popular areas. IN tourist centers you can get cards and background information. Snowshoeing is not difficult and can be done independently. But if this is your first time here and it’s difficult for you to plan a route, it’s better to take a guide.

Admire the morning scenery

The Trentino Ski Sunrise program is designed for those who appreciate the beauty of the early morning in the mountains. Those who dare to wake up early during their vacation will admire the dawn landscapes, have a tasty and hearty breakfast in a mountain hut, and then, in the company of professional guides, will be the first to find themselves on untouched virgin soil, on mountain forest trails or on ski slopes prepared the night before.

The Trentino Ski Sunrise calendar of morning activities runs from January to April. A total of three dozen morning excursions are planned. The full calendar is available at. You can follow the project news on social networks using the hashtag #trentinoskisunrise.

Drink at a bar or buy “all sorts of Italian”

After five in the evening, when all the ski lifts stop, the resorts are still bustling with life. Those who still have strength and desire can return to the illuminated slopes for “night” skiing. But most holidaymakers experience the Italian tradition of Apres-Ski - fun in bars, cafes, clubs and restaurants. Themed entertainment, parties and festivals are regularly held on the streets.

When it comes to alcohol, the region is famous for its white wines: the most famous Trentino variety is Nosiola. And some red wines are great: for example, Marcemino is drinkable and light, and Teroldego is fresh, floral, with a slightly bitter taste. Sparkling wine Trento DOC is an almost complete analogue of real French champagne. Among strong drinks, the famous Italian grappa stands out. Fans of dessert wines should pay attention to Vino Santo.

And for shopping lovers, there are shops in the area with Italian goods and products from local producers.

Ride a fat bike

A fat bike is a bicycle with wide treads that can be ridden in the snow. This walk will delight those who miss cycling. In the resort of Folgaria - Lavarone, you can rent a fat bike on the Alpe Cimbra elephant, and there is a special program for evening riding. In Peio (Val di Sole region), fat biking is organized by Terra di Bike. The staff of the Dolomiti Paganella Bike company in Paganella will help guide tourists along a variety of routes. In Valsugana, for fat bike rides, you can contact In Bike.

Watch the animals in the park and admire the view from above

Most of the region belongs to national parks, where you can walk independently or with guides. In winter, excursions can be made on foot, skis or snowshoes. Or you can use gondola lifts that will take you to a height of up to three thousand meters, from where beautiful views open up.

Remember your childhood by racing on sleds and toboggans

Sleds and toboggans are fast, fun and safe. Children and teenagers are delighted with such descents. Adults often look at sleds and helmets with skepticism, but once you overcome it once, the long-forgotten childhood feeling of joy from speed skating downhill will not take long to come. There are specially laid tracks at all major resorts in Trentino. Rolling around in the snow is guaranteed!

Soak in the sauna

There are modern thermal complexes in the Trentino mountains. Visitors can enjoy swimming pools, water parks, Jacuzzis, aroma rooms, saunas, massages and beauty treatments. The new QC Terme Dolomiti spa complex opens in Pozza di Fassa. In Canazei there is a recreation center Dòlaondes, in Andalo - AcquaIn, in Arco on the shores of Lake Garda - water complex Garda Thermae.

Ride off-piste

The Trentino resorts have a variety of places and routes where skiers and snowboarders can hit the untreated slopes. Beginning freeriders can recommend the 16-kilometer easy Pisgani descent in Passo Tonale. Experienced skaters will enjoy the narrow Holzer Canyon in Canazei with its many natural jumps.

It is better to ride accompanied by a professional local guide. Please remember that independent off-piste skiing is not covered by insurance.

See the effect of Enrosadira

The Dolomites are listed as a UNESCO natural heritage, and these mountains are no less picturesque in winter than in summer. The Dolomites look especially magical in good frosty weather at sunrise or sunset. Due to the numerous mineral elements in the rock, in the rays of the low sun, the slopes acquire pink, orange, and burgundy shades. Locals call this effect Enrosadira and create legends about it.

Go ice skating or curling

In many cities and most resorts, outdoor skating areas are flooded. In the evening they are beautifully illuminated and music plays. There are also several indoor skating rinks for professional skating in the region. Ice Rink Piné near Trento is considered the best.

It is not uncommon to visit the stadiums to attend hockey matches of Italian teams or see figure skating demonstrations featuring local talent and guest stars. Some courts offer curling.

Go dog sledding

Dog sledding is especially popular among those who come on vacation with children. You can book an introductory ride or a long walk along specially laid tracks and paths at almost all major resorts. You can also organize an evening trip to a mountain restaurant for dinner. Courses are offered for those who want to learn how to ride a dog sled on their own.

Holidaymakers in Madonna di Campiglio and Pinzolo should visit the Athabaska sled dog center. The Windshot dog training center, specializing in Siberian Huskies, is open in Folgaria and Andalo. The Huskyland Sled Dog School welcomes visitors and tourists to Passo Tonale.

Feel like a ski pro

The Trentino Mountains are home to many legendary professional ski slopes. Among them is the “black” slope Canalone Miramonti - the site of the iconic 3-Tre competition. The Ciampac slope in Val di Fassa is one of the most favorite slopes of the most popular Italian skier Alberto Tomba. Olimpionica 2 in Altopiano della Paganella is the training base for the Norwegian alpine ski team. The Olimpia circuit in Val di Fiemme is famous for its 7 km of descent. And the difficult slope of Tognola in San Martino di Castrozza is worth climbing, if only for the wonderful view of the Dolomites. Tourists can ski these trails themselves if they are in good physical shape and feel confident on difficult sections.

Cheer at competitions

There are many competitions held in the region. For example, the legendary night ski slalom competition 3Tre. The venue is traditionally the “black” track Canalone Miramonti in Madonna di Campiglio. This year the Men's Alpine Skiing World Cup in Madonna di Campiglio will take place on December 22. Details on the website.

Tour de Ski is the ski analogue of the Tour de France cycling stage race. Every day, professional athletes cover many kilometers of distance in classic and free styles, competing in three events - mass start, pursuit and sprint. This winter the Tour de Ski competition begins on December 30th. Skiers will reach Trentino in a week. Races in two disciplines for men and women will take place in Val di Fiemme on January 6 and 7, 2018. Details on the website.

The Marcialonga ski competition is famous for its length. Athletes will have to cover 70 km using the classic course. On January 28, 2018, the Marcialonga race will take place in Predazzo for the 45th time. Applications for participation have already closed, but spectators are expected to visit the Val di Fiemme valley in January to cheer on the brave skiers. Details on the website.

The unusual race La Ciaspolada made the Non Valley famous throughout the world! The unique snowshoe running competition will be held for the 45th time this winter in little known place Val di Non. Athletes will run on January 6, 2017. Details on the website.

Take a walk around the city

Trento's most popular modern attraction is the interactive science museum MuSe. The impressive Buonconsiglio Castle with its Eagle Tower rises above the city. The ancient castle Palazzo Lodron and the Doss Trento hill are interesting. Art lovers will love the art galleries at the Piedicastello and Palazzo Roccabruna castles, while wine lovers will love the Trentino Wine Center.

It’s better to start your walk around Trento from Piazza del Duomo: visit the Duomo, admire the ancient mansions on the nearby streets, including the beautiful Palazzo Quetta Alberti-Colico with frescoes on the facade, and then climb the Torre Aquila tower and drink coffee with apple strudel in cafe overlooking the Brenta Dolomiti mountains.

And, of course, try the famous Italian cuisine!

Italian cuisine, which cannot be confused with any other, has a special flavor in the Dolomites. Preserving the traditions of the Ladin people, many restaurants prefer to serve their guests good folk dishes. They are prepared from local products according to preserved recipes. The restaurants can be very fancy - some even boast Michelin stars. It is worth trying traditional dishes: polenta with mushrooms and cheese, ravioli with spinach, barley soup, local sausages and cheeses, and for dessert - pies and strong grappa. It is recommended to reserve tables in Michelin-starred restaurants in advance.

How to get there?

Transport is an additional plus for a holiday in Trentino: the airports located in northern Italy are very easy to reach. The Fly Ski Shuttle company has been offering a service for transporting tourists from airports to the most popular resorts in the Dolomites for several years.

During the winter season from December 8 to April 2, shuttles will operate on Saturdays and Sundays from the airports of Verona, Bergamo, Milan, Venice and Treviso, as well as from the center of the region's capital, Trento. On these days, 2-3 trips are provided on the most popular destinations. For Christmas and New Year holidays Additional flights are planned.

From the airports of Verona Valerio Catullo, Bergamo Orio al Serio, Milan Linate, Fly Ski Shuttle buses will deliver tourists to the resorts of Madonna di Campiglio, Pinzolo, Val di Sole, Val Val di Fassa, Val di Fiemme, Paganella, San Martino di Castrozza. From Venice airports Marco Polo and Treviso Canova, shuttles depart to Val di Fiemme, Val di Fassa and San Martino di Castrozza.

Thanks to cooperation with the transport company Orio Shuttle, the route network has expanded even further - among the airports where you can quickly and conveniently get to the popular ski resorts in the Dolomites, the largest airport in Milan, Malpensa, has appeared.

The cost of the trip is 60 euros when purchasing a round-trip ticket, 35 euros one way. Discounts are available for children. There are special conditions for the carriage of luggage and ski equipment.