Best walks in the Dolomites

Step into the Dolomites. Jagged peaks. Big skies.

The kind of paths that stay with you long after your boots are off.

Up in northeast Italy, this is scenery that doesn’t hold back. Think storybook villages, mountain huts dotted across green hills, and cable cars ready to whisk you up to those cloud-level views. It’s all very easy to fall for.

And yes, it’s a dream for walkers. But also for cyclists, mountain bikers, e-bikers, history buffs, and anyone who enjoys a scenic pause with a glass of something lovely.

There’s even a UNESCO World Heritage Site, meaning it’s considered one of the most important natural landscapes in the world.

The Dolomites reward you for getting out there. One minute you’re strolling along, the next you’re stopping for a view that looks like it’s been professionally edited.

And with a network of lifts to help you along the way, getting up high is surprisingly easy. Go early if you can. Sunrise here turns the peaks a soft, glowing red. It’s less “early bird catches the worm” and more “early bird gets the best view of their life”.

Your guide to the best walks in the Dolomites

Grade: Easy-moderate

Length: 8 kilometres

Highlight: Views of the Odle peaks

Where: Selva

Starting with a scenic cable car ride in Ortisei, this walk takes you to the breath-taking Seceda. At 2,519 meters, it offers spectacular views of the Odle Group. Remember, it's a hotspot in summer, so an early start is your best bet to avoid crowds.

Grade: Moderate

Length: 7 kilometres

Highlight: 360-degree views

Where: Selva

Feel like you're on top of the world at Pic Mountain. The walk starts from Santa Cristina, passing through Sëurasas, and leads you to a panoramic feast at Mount Pic.

Grade: Challenging

Length: 17 kilometres

Highlight: Stunning landscapes

Where: Selva

Gear up for an adventurous journey starting with the Ciampinoi lift. You'll traverse through the mesmerizing rock formations of the stone city, reaching the Passo Sella.

The Friedrich August path will offer you breath-taking views of Seiser Alm, Europe's largest and highest alpine pasture.

Grade: Easy-Moderate

Length: 2.7km Highlight: Medieval church and art

Where: Canazei

From the 13th Century Santa Giuliana church, boasting 15th Century frescoes, to the tranquil Austro-Hungarian war cemetery, this walk is a blend of history, art, and serene nature.

Grade: Moderate

Length: 6km

Highlight: Diverse landscapes

Where: Canazei

This route takes you through the stunning Val di Fassa, offering a mix of rugged peaks and lush meadows. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local beauty.

Grade: Easy-Moderate

Length: 5.4km

Highlight: Lake views and alpine scenery

Where: Canazei

Begin at the Rifugio Fedaia and walk alongside the tranquil Lake Fedaia. End your walk at Rifugio Castiglioni Marmolada, where lunch with a view awaits.

Grade: Challenging

Highlight: Stone figures akin to Stonehenge

Where: Merano

This unique route leads you to over 100 small stone figures around the mountain cross of Schöneck. Plus, don't miss the South Tyrolean hut delights at Möltner Kaser.

Grade: Easy

Length: 4km

Highlight: Flora diversity

Where: Merano

Starting from the Merano centre, this trail is a botanical wonderland! With palms, magnolias, olive trees, and floral wonders. A true photographer's paradise!

Grade: Easy

Length: 3.2km

Highlight: Walk past the famous statue of Sissi (Empress Elisabeth of Austria)

Where: Merano

A historical treat connecting the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle with Merano’s city centre. Follow the footsteps of Empress Elisabeth of Austria along this scenic path.