The Dolomites
Italy
The Grande Strada delle Dolomiti, the Great Dolomites Road from Bolzano to Cortina d'Ampezzo through the most spectacular mountain scenery in the Alps. Huge cathedrals of rock, the Val di Fassa, the Sella Ronda massif, the Alta Badia, and vertiginous switchbacks between peaks of 3,168m and 3,218m.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Bolzano
Bilingual South Tyrolean capital. Otzi the Iceman (3300 BC) is in the Archaeology Museum; Castel Roncolo looms above the gorge at the city's northern edge.
- Val di Fassa
Ladin-speaking valley below the Marmolada (3343m). Canazei is the gateway to the Sella Ronda circuit and some of the Dolomites' most dramatic hiking terrain.
- Passo Pordoi
The Great Dolomites Road's highest point at 2239m. A cable car ascends to the Sass Pordoi plateau; 33 hairpins climb each side of the pass.
- Alta Badia
Ladin villages in a meadow bowl ringed by the Sella Group's vertical walls. The valley has more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than almost anywhere in the Alps.
- Passo Falzarego
The dramatic 2105m pass linking Alta Badia to Cortina, with the Lagazuoi massif rising sheer above the road and WWI tunnels carved into the cliffs.
- Cortina d'Ampezzo
The Queen of the Dolomites, host of the 1956 and 2026 Winter Olympics. The Tofane massif rises directly above the Corso Italia's elegant boutiques and cafes.
Where to Eat
- Rifugio FuciadeItalian
A charming mountain hut offering traditional Ladin cuisine amidst panoramic views of the Dolomites.
- El PaelItalian
Renowned for its authentic Italian dishes and cozy ambiance in the heart of Canazei.
- Ristorante La Stua de MichilGourmet
An upscale dining experience featuring gourmet dishes crafted from local ingredients in Corvara.
Things to Do
- Sass Pordoi Cable CarScenic Viewpoint
Ascend to 2,950 meters for breathtaking 360-degree views of the Dolomites.
- Museum Ladin Ciastel de TorMuseum
Explore the rich Ladin culture and history housed in a medieval castle in San Martino in Badia.
- Viel dal Pan TrailHike
A historic trail offering stunning views of the Marmolada glacier and surrounding peaks.
Travel advisory
High passes including the Pordoi and Falzarego exceed 2,200 m and are typically closed by snow from November to late May. Roads are narrow with sharp switchbacks and heavy tourist traffic in summer. Check pass opening dates and avoid peak-season weekends if possible.