Where to Stay in the Dolomites (Cortina d’Ampezzo & Surroundings)
The Dolomites, once dubbed as the Pale Mountains, crown the top of northeastern Italy. The dramatic dolomite rock formations extend from the Southern Limestone Alps to the River Adige in the west to the Piave Valley in the east. The Dolomite mountain range is best known for its snow sports and is especially popular during the winter season. Travelers come from near and far to ski down the powdery slopes and then head to the thermal baths to warm up and soothe sore muscles.
Although the Dolomite Mountains may be famous for hosting some of the world’s best winter activities, people are flocking to the mountain range in the summer as well. New modern luxury resorts, picturesque views, and incredible hiking and biking trails have made the Dolomites an equally worthy summer vacation destination.
Not sure where to stay during your trip to the Dolomites? Read on to learn all about the best places to stay, ski, hike, and visit in the Dolomites.
IMPORTANT: Dolomites are in regions of Veneto, Trentino, Südtirol and Friuli Venezia Giulia. When visiting, most people combine Italy with Austria and visit both the Dolomites and Alps. In fact, if you decide to stay in Bolzano you will experience both – Italian & Austrian influences.
Technically the Alps do include the Dolomites, however, locals refer to the mountains as the Dolomites. The Dolomites are part of the Alps, but they are not referred to as the Alps by the locals.
Best Hotels in the Dolomites
Best Luxury Hotels in the Dolomites
Hotel Miramonti • Chalet al Fos • Adler Spa Garni
Best Boutique Hotels in the Dolomites
Hotel Europa • Hotel Bellevue Suites & Spa • Rosapetra SPA Resort
Best Guest Houses in the Dolomites
Hotel Traube • Hotel Bischofhof
What is the Best Way to Get to the Dolomites?
There is lots of misinformation on the internet about the best way to get to the Dolomites. I often see some people recommending flying to Milan Airport, which is absolutely not recommended because it’s a long way from the mountains. Unless you score a very cheap option and don’t mind driving for hours, I’ll say don’t do it.
Assuming you’re flying, you have quite a few options. The closest airport is Venice Airport (either Marco Polo or Treviso). Alternatively, you can fly to Innsbruck Airport in Austria.
Alternatively, you can also drive or take a bus to major towns (during ski season) directly from Verona Valerio Catullo Airport. Or simply take a train from Verona to Trento or Bolzano and take it from there.
Do You Need a Car in the Dolomites?
I’ll be real. It is technically possible to see the Dolomites without a car, but you will not get the most of your time without the car. Simply because you need to drive to trailheads, be at certain spots for sunsets, and be free to explore everything. Doing it all with public transportation exclusively will be frustrating, time-consuming, and frankly not worth it.
If you’re not bringing your own car – rent a car in Italy. If you’re just driving to major towns you’ll be fine in any car, but during the winter you might get stuck in an automatic small car (I learned that from experience!).
Cortina d’Ampezzo – Most centrally located
Cortina d’Ampezzo is a ski resort in northern Italy. Many call it Cortina, and it’s a town in the heart of the southern (Dolomitic) Alps.
This place is a winter paradise tucked away deep in the mountains, but a good base for summer adventures as wel. If you’re looking for a fairytale-like winter wonderland getaway, this is the place for you. Be sure to bring your skis or rent a pair while you’re there; you will be spending a lot of time on the slopes.
You really don’t need a car if you’re staying in Cortina, most of the best sights are all within walking distance. Plus, you will probably spend the majority of your vacation in the stunning resorts coming back and forth from the mountains.
While this area gives off captivating ‘Snow Disneyland’ vibes, it’s also packed with interesting historical sites, tasty eats, and friendly locals. If you’re a movie buff, you’ll be glad to learn that Cortina d’Ampezzo was the filming location for movies like Cliffhanger, The Pink Panther, and 007.
Top 3 Activities in Cortina d’Ampezzo
1. If you’re tired of skiing and snowboarding, or if you happen to visit Cortina in the summer, hiking around Cortina is a brilliant way to spend the day. The Passeggiata Ex Ferrovia is an easy hour-long walk from Cortina to one of the nearby villages. This path is flat and easy to walk. Take your camera so you can capture all of the stunning views. You can even see the ski jump trampoline from the 1956 Olympics!
2. Take a ride on the Freccia del Cielo cable car to wine and dine with a view. The cable car has different stops, but riding to the top is usually recommended. At the top, you will find Capanna Ra Valles, a delicious Italian restaurant, the highest pizzeria in the Dolomites. They serve alcohol too, so if you’re chilly, be sure to warm up with a sweet Bombardino, the most popular drink of the Italian ski alps.
3. If you’re into shopping, you’re in luck. Aside from snow sports, Cortina is one of the best places in the Italian Alps to shop. Head over to the main drag, Corso Italia, to find chic boutiques and shops. They sell everything from ski gear to high fashion clothing and accessories in Cortina.