Holidays in the Dolomites

Things to see and do in the Dolomites

Holidays to the Dolomites are like nowhere else due to the towering mountains and historical castles poking out of the landscape, some dating back to 1300AD. The public transport and network of lifts means exploring the area couldn't be easier. You can even head to the beautiful city of Bolzano for a day out.

Throughout the year there's always something going on. Expect anything from the traditional markets in Ortisei selling hand crafted goods, to the singing and dancing at the Ladin folk festival in Canazei.   

No matter where you are in the Dolomites, you might be lucky enough to witness a natural phenomenon while on holiday. As the sunsets in the Dolomites, a red glow appears over the mountains peaks, known locally as Enrosadira. Truly a spectacular site. 

Food & drink 

Italy is renowned for amazing food and we know all the best places in the Dolomites. Nearly every resort sells freshly made stone baked pizzas and home-made lasagne with recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. If you want a holiday based around great food, Merano is the place to go. Not only is food grown locally but due to the Mediterranean climate, wine comes from the orchards sat above the Alpine town. San Cassiano is also high on the list for foody resorts and is even home to a Michelin star restaurant.

Its not just restaurants in resort serving up delicious food. All over the Dolomites you'll find mountain huts offering a wide range of dishes. We highly recommend trying local grub such as 'speck', a smoky mouth watering cured meat. A real local classic is their dumplings. Perfectly handcrafted, they are flavoured with a variety of ingredients and served in a rich creamy cheese sauce. For desert the Italians use their links with Austria and serve up a mean apple strudel.

Activities

Throughout the resorts we feature in the Dolomites, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to walking and cycling. Hike up the famous Piz Boe mountain from Corvara or enjoy leisurely walks with stunning views in the Val Gardena valley when staying in Selva. It's here you will also find cycling haven 'Trail Arena'. It has some of the best facilities for anyone on two wheels. Pretty much in all of the resorts you can hire a bike but if your not sure you can cope with the hills, upgrade to an e-bike, we did and it was the best.

If you're looking for a resort with lots of fun activities, we found Kronplatz certainly had loads going on. You can go on a segway tour, play a round of golf, even go rafting or kayaking. However if you want an adrenalin rush, you need to try the Skyscraper! Across many of the resorts is the chance to try a tandem paragliding experience. If you don't mind heights it's a great way to see the area from above and gets some pictures and memories to treasure forever. Head to our resort pages to find out more about each resort.