Hike #1: Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee)

The most photogenic lake in the Dolomites

Lago di Braies is perhaps the most famous lake in the Dolomites, and it’s a place you simply have to see at least once in your life.

The emerald-green water sits beautifully between steep cliffs and forests. We arrived towards the end of the day, when there were almost no people, which was a huge contrast to the daytime crowds. The atmosphere at sunset is truly magical.

A gentle 4-kilometre trail circles the lake, perfect for anyone who wants a beautiful hike in the Dolomites without making it too strenuous. If you’re looking for a bit more of a challenge, there are several other paths along the route, though it’s best to research them before setting off.

The hike starts right at the lake, by the iconic wooden boathouses that you’ve probably seen in photos. Along the way, you’ll walk through dense forests, cross open areas with views of the water, and pass under the imposing Croda del Becco, which towers above the lake.

Practical info

📍 Start point: by the wooden boathouses at Lago di Braies
🥾 Distance: around 4 km
⏱️ Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
📈 Difficulty: easy
🌅 Best time to visit: early morning or at sunset, when the light is soft and it’s quieter around the lake
🚗 Parking: paid parking near the lake
🛏️ Accommodation: Steinwandterhof

Hike #2: Monte Tudaio

Abandoned radar station with panoramic views over the Dolomites

Monte Tudaio is a lesser-known but impressive hike in the Dolomites. And because it’s not very popular, it’s usually wonderfully quiet.

The mountain rises above the Cadore region and is famous for its old radar station at the summit. Today it’s abandoned, giving it a mysterious atmosphere—perfect for urban explorers. From the top, you get an incredible view of the surrounding Dolomites, with even the Tre Cime di Lavaredo visible in the distance.

The trail starts at Rifugio Tenente Fabbro and follows an old military path that gradually climbs the mountain. It’s a solid, if somewhat monotonous, ascent, but we hardly saw anyone along the way—so peaceful. Once at the summit, you can explore the abandoned buildings and quietly enjoy the panoramic views that were once of strategic importance to the army.

Don’t forget your trekking poles, and bring your lunch to enjoy at the top with a spectacular view.

Practical info

📍 Start point: 46°30’48.6″N 12°28’31.4″E
🥾 Distance: around 10 km (return)
⏱️ Duration: 3 to 4 hours
📈 Difficulty: moderate – long climb but on a good trail
🌄 Best time to visit: on a clear day for the best views
🚗 Parking: official parking (tip: download the Maps.me app to help locate it)
🛏️ Accommodation: Hotel Juventus

Hike #3: Lago di Sorapis

A turquoise gem in the Dolomites

Lago di Sorapis is an absolute must on your list, as it’s one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in the Dolomites. Nestled between rugged peaks, the trail to the lake treats you to stunning views all the way.

The hike to the lake starts at Passo Tre Croci, near Cortina d’Ampezzo. Trail 215 winds its way through forests and along rocky cliffs. The hike is moderate in difficulty, with a few narrow and thrilling sections—but even with my fear of heights, it was manageable.

At the top, the stunning turquoise Lago di Sorapis awaits, with the imposing Croda del Sorapis in the background. At the mountain hut Rifugio Vandelli, you can grab a bite or a drink (bring cash), use the restroom, or simply enjoy the view.

It can get quite busy here, so try to go early to avoid the crowds. And don’t forget your trekking poles here either!

Practical info

📍 Start point: Passo Tre Croci (Cortina d’Ampezzo – Misurina)
🥾 Distance: around 12 km (return)
⏱️ Duration: 3.5–4 hours
📈 Difficulty: moderate, with some narrow sections
🌄 Best time to visit: early or later in the day to avoid the crowds
🍽️ Break: Rifugio Vandelli
🚗 Parking: small parking at Passo Tre Croci
🛏️ Accommodation: B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina

Hike #4: Monte Rite

Panoramic summit (and museum) with views over the Dolomites

Monte Rite is a mountain with views that will literally take your breath away. From the summit, you get a full 360° panorama over the rugged Dolomites—from Monte Pelmo to the Marmolada. At the top, you’ll also find the Messner Mountain Museum Dolomites, a small museum on mountain culture and alpinism, founded by Reinhold Messner.

You can reach Monte Rite from Forcella Cibiana, near Hotel Remauro. From there, you have two ways to reach the summit and the museum: on foot or by shuttle:

1. 1. Via the military road – an easy 7 km hike with a steady incline (around 2 hours). This is the same route the shuttle takes.
   2. Via CAI trail no. 479 (Col de Orlando) – a quieter path that avoids the wide and monotonous shuttle road. This trail joins the military road at Forcella Dèona and continues up to the summit (around 1.5 hours).

You can also opt for a one-way shuttle ride. We took the shuttle up—so wonderfully lazy—and walked back down via the CAI trail. It was officially our rest day, but with those stunning views, walking down didn’t feel like a chore at all!

Tip: We were there around midday, and the light was quite harsh. If you want to see the Dolomites at their best, go in the morning when the light is much softer.

Practical info

📍 Start point: Forcella Cibiana (near Hotel Remauro)
🥾 Distance: around 14 km (return via the military road)
⏱️ Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours one way, depending on pace (or 1.5 hours with shuttle up + descent on foot)
📈 Difficulty: moderate – gradual climb on a good trail
🌄 Best time to visit: on a clear day, preferably in the morning for the best light
🍽️ Break: Rifugio Dolomites at the top
🚗 Parking: free parking at Forcella Cibiana

Hike #5: Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Drei Zinnen)

The icon of the Dolomites

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo—or Drei Zinnen in German—are the most famous symbol of the Dolomites. The three towering rock formations rise proudly above the landscape, creating one of South Tyrol’s most spectacular panoramas.

You can do a beautiful loop hike around the three peaks, passing Rifugio Auronzo, Rifugio Lavaredo, and Rifugio Locatelli. The trail is well-maintained, and the views constantly change along the way—from green valleys to rugged rock formations.

We weren’t able to do the hike ourselves due to illness, but we still enjoyed the view from the starting point, where the bus arrives at Rifugio Auronzo. And honestly, even without hiking, the view there is already impressive. It was quite busy, and we had to wait a while for the bus—something to keep in mind if you’re visiting during peak season.

On site, you can grab a snack or a drink at the restaurant.

Practical info

📍 Start point: Rifugio Auronzo (accessible via toll road or shuttle bus from Misurina)
🥾 Distance: around 10 km (loop, if you do the full route around the peaks) ⏱️ Duration: 3 to 4 hours
📈 Difficulty: moderate – good trail with gentle elevation changes
🌄 Best time to visit: early morning or later in the day to avoid crowds
🚗 Parking: paid parking at Rifugio Auronzo
🚌 Tip: the bus is convenient, but expect some waiting during busy periods
🛏️ Accommodation: Binterhof

Hike #6: Lago di Dobbiaco

A peaceful stop between the mountains

Lago di Dobbiaco (Toblacher See) is set in a beautiful spot between Cortina d’Ampezzo and Lago di Braies. It’s a quiet mountain lake known for its green hues and the impressive surrounding peaks. A gentle 2.5 km trail circles the lake, making it perfect for a short stop or a relaxing afternoon walk.

Along the way, you’ll pass several viewpoints, wooden piers, and even an old bunker that you can explore briefly. On the shore, there’s also a restaurant with a terrace where you can grab a bite or a drink and enjoy the view.

When we visited, unfortunately it started to rain. On a sunny day, this must be one of the prettiest spots in the area.

Practical info

📍 Location: between Dobbiaco (Toblach) and Cortina d’Ampezzo
🥾 Trail: around 2.5 km circling the lake
⏱️ Duration: about 45 minutes
📈 Difficulty: easy, flat path
🌄 Best time to visit: on a clear morning for soft light and fewer people 🍽️ Break: lakeside restaurant
🚗 Parking: paid parking near the shore

Hike #7: Lago di Misurina

A short walk with stunning views

Yes, we’re mentioning another lake! Lago di Misurina sits at 1,754 metres and is incredibly photogenic. The surrounding peaks reflect perfectly in the water, giving it an almost surreal glow, especially at sunrise or sunset.

A gentle 2.5 km trail circles the lake, ideal if you want to stretch your legs or simply enjoy the view without tackling a strenuous hike. Along the way, you’ll pass several viewpoints, terraces, and wooden piers where you can stop for a photo.

We visited in the evening, and the light was truly magical—the mountains turned pink and the water was like glass.

For those wanting a bit more activity, you can continue from here to Lago Antorno, about 1.5 km further. It’s a smaller, equally charming lake that’s often much quieter.

Practical info

📍 Location: Lago di Misurina, near Cortina d’Ampezzo
🥾 Trail: around 2.5 km circling the lake (optional +1.5 km to Lago Antorno) ⏱️ Duration: about 45 minutes (or 1.5 hours including Lago Antorno)
📈 Difficulty: easy, flat path
🌄 Best time to visit: sunrise or sunset for the best light
🍽️ Break: several cafés and restaurants on the shore
🚗 Parking: spacious paid parking at the lake

And that’s it—the 7 hikes we recommend in the Italian Dolomites. Enjoy these beautiful walks!