Dolomites Adventure Travel Guide & The 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics

Dolomites Adventure Travel Guide & The 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics

 

Ready to explore Italy beyond the usual sights?  Our Dolomites Adventure Travel Guide is your perfect trip companion!  Whether you love to hike, ski, road cycle, or mountain bike, the Dolomites offer endless opportunities for exploration.

In addition, the excitement is building as the Dolomiti region will play host to some of the events for the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics and Paralympics from February- March 2026.  The Winter Olympics were last hosted in the area in 1956 in Cortina d’Ampezzo, and major improvements are underway to ensure Italy shines on the world stage!

 

This Dolomites Adventure Travel Guide will include:

• What Makes the Dolomites Special
• How to Get There
• 10 Best Dolomites Travel Adventures
• Where to Stay During Your Dolomites Travels
• Attending the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics

 

As adventure travelers, the access to ski and climb towering peaks, hike through rolling green meadows, visit cozy mountain huts, swim in crystal clear lakes, and of course, eat the most delicious food is the reason we are moving to the Dolomites this summer!  So let’s dive into why Dolomites adventure travel is so special, and along the way, we’ll provide you with lots of tips to help you plan your Italy trip!  Andiamo, let’s go!

 

What Makes the Dolomites Special?

 

Before we dive into the adventures, it’s important to know a little about the history of the Dolomites and why this region has a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.

When you first arrive, you’ll notice a difference in the architecture, the food, the language, and the culture compared to the rest of Italy.  This is because when the Roman Empire expanded north, it brought Latin, which evolved into the Ladin language amongst local alpine inhabitants.  The area was called Tyrol/Tirol County by the Holy Roman Empire, and you’ll see the term Tyrol or South Tyrol used often.  The rugged Dolomites kept these Tyrolean communities separate from major influences, preserving their Ladin language as well as their farming culture through the centuries.

On top of the geographic isolation from the rest of Italy, the Dolomites region was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire through WWI.  It was only in 1919 that the area was annexed to Italy during their unification.  Then, during WWII, the Dolomites region was under the control of Nazi Germany.  Even with all these political shifts, the Ladin culture and communities survived thanks to its people.

As a traditional farming and pastoral society, this area of South Tyrol relied on agriculture, livestock, and forestry, and were self-sufficient in the Dolomites’ harsh alpine environments.   When you visit, you will notice signs in Italian, Ladin, and often German, and all three languages are spoken throughout the region.  We’ll use both the Ladin and Italian names for places throughout this blog when possible.

 

How The Dolomites Got Their Name

 

If you are wondering how the Dolomites got their name, it’s thanks to French geologist Déodat de Dolomieu, who first identified the rocky mineral in the 18th century.  Dolomite is similar to limestone, with a striking pale and jagged appearance.  This creates a dramatic landscape when complemented by green alpine meadows, quaint Tyrolean villages, and shimmering lakes beckoning you to jump right in!

 

Dolomites Adventure Travel Tips: How to Get There

 

The Dolomites are part of the Alps and are located in northeastern Italy.  You can reach the area by car from bigger cities like Milan (4-4.5 hrs) or Venice (2.5 hrs), yet they are less than 2 hours from the borders with both Austria and Switzerland.

If you plan to fly in to begin your Dolomites adventure travels, there are several international airports within a few hours:

• Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) – 2.5 hours
• Milan Malpensa (MXP)- 4-4.5 hours
• Innsbruck Airport (INN) – Located in Austria, 2 hrs
• Munich Airport (MUC)- Located in Germany, 3.5 hrs

 

In addition, there are also smaller airports like Verona (VRN), Treviso (TSF), and Bolzano (BZO) which are perfect if you’re coming from nearby EU countries or London and the UK.  The closest airport to the Dolomites is in Bolzano, which is about 22 miles or 40 minutes from the town of Ortisei, a great base camp to explore the region.

 

From all major airports, renting a car is the best way to get around as public transportation can be limited in mountain towns like Val Gardena and Alta Badia.  Even Cortina d’Ampezzo does not have a dedicated train line!  This could prove challenging during the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympics as parking is very limited in Cortina.  More tips on visiting during the Winter Olympics to come!

Speaking of trains, there is service into the Dolomites region from cities like Rome, Venice, and Milan.  However, you’ll have to find buses, hire a tour guide, or rent a car to explore deep into the Dolomites.  If you are interested in arriving by train, you’ll want to book tickets to one of the following stations:

• Bolzano/Bolzen, if coming from Rome, Milan, or other points south and west
• Bressanone, if you’re coming from the north in Switzerland or Austria
• Calalzo-Pieve di Cadore-Cortina– if arriving from Venice and heading towards Cortina d’Ampezzo

 

If you’re looking for more scenic train travel check out the Glacier Express, which goes from Zermatt to St. Moritz, or the Bernina Express. This beautiful scenic train ride crosses 196 bridges and 55 tunnels through the Swiss Alps from St. Moritz to Tirano, Italy!

 

 

Top 10 Things To Do On Your Dolomites Adventure Travels

 

When it comes to Dolomites adventure travel, there are so many activities to fill your days and evenings with that you’ll find it hard to sit still.  Below are our top 10 things to do in the Dolomites, and each time we visit, we discover something new!

 

1. Explore the Seceda Ridgeline

 

First up in our Dolomites adventure travel itinerary is to hike around the iconic peaks of the region, the best being Seceda above Ortisei.  The easiest way to reach Seceda is via the Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda cable car, which departs from Ortisei in Val Gardena and takes you up to 2,500 meters in just minutes.  Once at the top, you’ll find a stunning network of hiking trails, from easy panoramic walks to more challenging treks leading to the Puez-Odle Nature Park.

At the summit, Rifugios such as Baita Sofie Hütte and Baita Daniel Hütte await and offer cozy alpine hospitality, serving delicious South Tyrolean cuisine and providing an excellent rest stop with breathtaking terrace views.  Whether you visit in summer for hiking or winter for skiing, Seceda offers one of the most spectacular vistas in the entire Dolomites.

 

2. Go Rock Climbing at Cinque Torri

 

The Dolomites are a legendary climbing destination that attracts rock climbers from around the world.  Here you’ll find thousands of routes ranging from beginner-friendly to challenging multi-pitch climbs.  Many climbs date back to the early 1900s, with famous climbers like Reinhold Messner, Emilio Comici, and other pioneers setting routes in the Dolomites.

The rock is dolomite or limestone in most areas, meaning big pockets, sharp edges, and lots of interesting features.  One of the most popular areas for trad and sport climbing in the Dolomites is Cinque Torri.  Cinque Torri is a stunning rock formation known for its towering spires that attract hikers, climbers, and history enthusiasts.  Located near Cortina d’Ampezzo, this area is also famous for its WWI open-air ‘museum’, featuring restored trenches and military outposts from the war.

To get there, take the Cinque Torri chairlift from Bai de Dones, just a 20-minute drive from Cortina d’Ampezzo.  Once you reach the top, you’ll arrive at Rifugio Scoiattoli.  From here, it’s a few minutes walk on a gently sloping path that provides spectacular alpine scenery along the way.

The trails around Cinque Torri offer breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks, including Tofane and the Lagazuoi Massif.  So whether you’re hiking, climbing, or simply enjoying the views, Cinque Torri is a must-visit in the Dolomites!  Other great climbing areas include:

• Marmolada South Face
• Tre Cime di Lavaredo
• Sella Group- Piz Ciavazes

 

If you want to try rock climbing in the Dolomites and are new to the sport, hire a guide.  Most towns offer guiding services, like Val Gardena Mountain Guides, Alta Badia Guides, or Guide Alpine Cortina.  Going with a guide means they’ll take care of the gear, ensure the route selection is within your abilities, and you won’t get lost!

 

3. Ski or Snowboard the Sella Ronda

 

One of the most famous circuits in the Dolomites, the Sella Ronda, takes you on a breathtaking loop around the Sella Massif.  The Sella Ronda route connects four major ski resort towns: Val Gardena, Alta Badia, Arabba, and Val di Fassa.  You can ride the Sella Ronda clockwise (orange route) or counter-clockwise, (green route) and there is signage at each resort to help you find your way.  You will need a Dolomiti Superski pass, and be prepared for a long day.  However, with the route passing mountain refugios at the top of the climbs and the villages in the valleys, you’ll always have a place to stop, rest, and refuel.

With over 1,200 kilometers of ski slopes, and 450 lifts, Dolomiti Superski is one of the largest ski areas in the world and includes many other resorts than the four mentioned above, including Cortina d’Ampezzo.  Whether you’re carving down perfectly groomed runs or exploring off-piste terrain, this interconnected network of resorts offers something for every level of skier.

 

In addition, skiing the Sella Ronda would be a great activity if you’ll be traveling through the Dolomites for the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics and Paralympics!  The Olympic ski and snowboarding events will not be held at any of the resorts on the Sella route, so it will remain open to skiers all winter long.

Distance: 25 miles/ 40 km
Elevation Gain/Loss: ~7,800ft (2,400m) descent, you’ll get uphill by ski lift/cable car
Time Required: 4–6 hours (without long breaks)
Difficulty: Intermediate (some red runs, no black runs required)

 

 

4. Explore by Bicycle on Your Dolomites Adventure

 

Cycling in the Dolomites is filled with exhilarating climbs and descents that take your breath away.  There are plenty of bike shops throughout the Dolomites where you can rent a road bike, helmet, and pick up any other gear you might have left at home.  You can also ride the Sella Ronda by bike and loop around the roads that connect each valley of the Sella Group- Val Gardena, Alta Badia, Arabba, and Val di Fassa.

Distance: 36 miles/ 58km
Elevation Gain: ~5,900ft (1,800m)
Time Required: 4–6 hours (depending on fitness level)
Difficulty: Challenging (steep climbs, high altitude)

 

Besides cycling the Sella Ronda which you can ride almost all year round (when the roads are clear of snow), don’t miss the times when they are also free from car traffic!  These include the Maratona dles Dolomites, a famous cycling event in July, and then Sella Ronda Bike Day is a car-free day for cyclists held twice a year, in June and September.

 

5. Visit Lago di Braies

 

No Dolomites trip is complete without visiting its picturesque alpine lakes, and Lago di Braies or Pragser Wildsee, also known as the “Pearl of the Dolomites,” is a must-see.  With its stunning emerald waters reflecting the wild mountain peaks, Lago di Braies is worth the trip north from Cortina d’Ampezzo.  Rent a boat and go for a paddle, or hike the easy 2-mile loop around the lake.  The lake temperature gets up to 68 degrees in the summer so it also makes for a refreshing dip!

Other beautiful alpine lakes to add to your Dolomites adventure travel itinerary include:

• Lago di Sorapis
• Lago di Misurina
• Lago di Carezza
• Lago di Anterselva

 

6. Try a Via Ferrata

 

The Dolomites are home to an extensive network of via ferratas, and this is our 2nd favorite thing to do during our Dolomites adventure travels!  A via ferrata (Italian for “iron path”) is a climbing route equipped with steel cables, ladders, and iron rungs.  While you are ascending rocks the way a rock climber would, via ferratas are different in that they have protection already in place.  You will however need to wear a harness and use a special lanyard system, like the Petzl Scorpio when climbing a via ferrata.

Via ferratas were originally built during World War I in the Dolomites to help soldiers move through the mountains.  Along the routes, you’ll find old war bunkers, trenches, tunnels, and signage about the battles fought.  Today, more routes have been added to offer an exciting mix of climbing and hiking, making alpine peaks accessible to adventurous travelers.

If you’ve never done a via ferrata before and you are not a climber, go with a guide.  They can provide gear and navigation, and you will learn the techniques of climbing a via ferrata.  Here’s our favorite Dolomiti via ferratas to include in your adventure travel plans:

 

Via Ferrata Tridentina- Sella Group

The Via Ferrata Tridentina is a classic, offering spectacular views from the Refugio Pisciadù, and a suspension bridge.
Location: Alta Badia, Sella Group
Time: 3-4 hours
Effort: Moderate

 

Via Ferrata Ivano Dibona- Monte Cristallo

The Via Ferrata Ivano Dibona is a gorgeous route with a suspension bridge, plus lots of WWI artifacts.
Location: Near Cortina d’Ampezzo
Time: 5-7 hours
Effort: Moderate

 

Via Ferrata delle Bochette Alte- Brenta Dolomites

The Via Ferrata delle Bochette offers one of the most scenic and historic routes, it’s a true alpine traverse with exposed ledges and best done as a hut-to-hut trek!
Location: Near Trento in the Brenta Dolomites
Time: 6-8 hours
Effort: Challenging

 

 

7. Go Mountain Biking: The Sella Ronda MTB

 

Riding the Sella Ronda by mountain bike was one of our favorite adventures of our Dolomites travels!  We rented bikes and helmets at Intersport in Val Gardena, however, there are several bike shops in each town along the route.  Make sure to pick up a Sella Ronda MTB map at the bike shop and buy a Dolomiti Supersummer Pass.  Plan your day, leave extra time for stops, and avoid getting stuck out when the lifts close for the day.

If you want to make it harder, you can ride uphill instead of taking a lift, but we recommend taking the ski lifts or cable cars.  Then you can truly enjoy the sweeping descents as you plummet thousands of feet into the valleys below!

Distance: 36 miles/58km
Elevation Gain/Loss: ~1,500ft (450m) mostly using lifts, 13,629ft descending!!
Time Required: 6-8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

 

Besides cycling the Sella Ronda, there are lots of flow trails and groomed bike parks in the Dolomites.  Many of the ski lifts and gondolas will accommodate mountain bikes, so you can take the lifts up and enjoy the big descents all day long!

 

8. Hike the Tre Cime Lavaredo Loop

 

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop is one of the most iconic hikes in the Dolomites, offering breathtaking views of the famous three towering peaks.  This moderate 6.2 miles (10km) loop takes about 3-4 hours to complete and starts from Rifugio Auronzo, which is accessible by car or shuttle bus from Cortina d’Ampezzo.

The well-marked trail winds past Rifugio Lavaredo and climbs to Forcella Lavaredo, where you’ll get stunning close-up views of the Tre Cime’s north faces.  Continuing around the loop, you’ll pass Rifugio Locatelli, an excellent stop for a meal with panoramic vistas.  This hike is best done in summer and early fall when the trails are clear of snow and the alpine scenery is at its most spectacular.

 

9. Visit Alpe di Suisi/Seiser Alm

 

Visiting Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm), Europe’s largest high alpine meadow is a must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.  This vast plateau offers breathtaking views of the Sassolungo and Sciliar peaks, along with lush green pastures dotted with traditional wooden huts.  You can reach Alpe di Siusi by cable car from Ortisei or Siusi, as private cars are restricted during peak hours to preserve the pristine landscape.

In summer, Alpe di Siusi is a paradise for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, while in winter, it transforms into a cross-country skiing and snowshoeing wonderland.  The area is home to charming rifugios where you can enjoy local South Tyrolean specialties like speck, dumplings, and apple strudel while soaking in the stunning alpine scenery.

 

10. Take the Cable Car to Sassolungo/Langkofel

 

Taking the cable car up to Sassolungo (Langkofel) is an incredible way to experience the heart of the Dolomites, and I think we saved the best for last.  The Forcella Sassolungo lift, a unique two-person standing cable car, departs from Passo Sella and ascends to Forcella del Sassolungo at 8,796ft (2,681m).  The ride itself is an adventure, just getting into the cable car is an adventure!! 

At the top, you can explore Rifugio Toni Demetz, a cozy mountain hut with spectacular panoramas and delicious local food.  From here, hikers can descend into the Sassolungo Group or continue to the Friedrich August trail for a stunning trek along the ridgeline.

There’s also great rock climbing at Sassolungo.  Whether you’re a hiker, climber, or simply want to enjoy the views, the Sassolungo cable car is a must-do in the Dolomites!

 

Where to Stay During Your Dolomites Travels

 

The villages of the Dolomites are a mix of traditional alpine mountain towns, charming ski resorts, and small rural settlements that blend Italian, Austrian, and Ladin cultures.  Many have a Tyrolean feel, with wooden chalets, frescoed churches, and pedestrian walkways that are closed to car traffic.  If you are planning your Dolomite adventure travel itinerary around the 2026 Winter Olympics, pick a town that is located close to where the Olympics events will be held, but also allows you to escape the crowds!  In addition, if you’ll be buying a Dolomiti Superski or Supersummer Pass, ensure the towns you’re visiting are on the pass.

 

There are so many villages to choose from, however here are the best Dolomites towns to use as a base for exploring the area:

 

1. Cortina d’Ampezzo:

A premier luxury resort town and close to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Lago Misurina, and Lago di Braies.  The 2026 Winter Olympics will feature several events in town and on the slopes!

 

2. Ortisei/St. Ulrich (Val Gardena):

A bustling town close to Bolzano (closest major city to the Dolomites) and with access to Alpe di Suisi and the famous Seceda ridgeline.

 

3. Selva/Wolkenstein or Santa Cristina (Val Gardena):

A quieter, more central location for skiing and mountain biking on the Sella Ronda.

 

4. Madonna di Campiglio:

A stylish resort town in the southern Dolomites with a lively atmosphere and close to Lago di Garda, Acro (great climbing area), and Trento.

 

5. Canazei (Val di Fassa):

A charming ski town with access to the Sella Ronda, and close to Cinque Torre.  Canazei is also close to a few of the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics venues near Predazzo!

 

Mountain Rifugios & Agriturismos

 

In addition to the Dolomites villages we’ve highlighted, we highly recommend booking a night or two at a mountain refugio or rifugio.  The refugios are often accessible by ski lift or cable car, or by hiking up from the valley.  Most refugios will offer meals, accommodations, a well-stocked bar, and they’ll have nice open spaces both inside and outside to relax.  There is no central booking system for the Dolomites refugios.  Your best bet is to find one in the area you want to explore and look on their website for more information.

We stayed at the Rifugio Scoiattoli at Cinque Torri and it was the highlight of our trip!  It also allowed us more time to hike and climb in the Cinque Torri area.  We spent evenings there watching the sunset, enjoying an Aperol spritz while the last of the hikers departed downhill and the goats and sheep slowly made their way up from the valley below.  It was like a fairy tale.

 

In addition to a stay at a mountain top rifugio, experience traditional Ladin culture and mountain life by spending a night at an Agriturismi or Agriturismo.  We spent a week at the Larciunëi de Sot and had the chance to meet all the animals- cows, chickens, and rabbits, plus we had fresh eggs, milk, and bread delivered to our apartment daily!

 

 

Attending the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics

 

Visiting the Dolomites during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina will be an unforgettable experience, but planning ahead is essential.  Expect high demand for accommodations, especially in Cortina d’Ampezzo, which will host key events like alpine skiing, bobsled, luge, curling, and both para skiing and para snowboarding.  If you want to avoid crowds, consider staying in Val Gardena, Alta Badia, or Val di Fassa, which offer incredible skiing and easy access to Olympic venues.

Other Olympic events that will be held nearby include: ski jumping, nordic combined, and cross-country skiing near Predazzo in Val di Fiemme.  To the north of Cortina, the biathlon will take place in Antholz/Anterselva.

Book guided tours, hotels, and car rentals well in advance, as prices will rise, and all areas will be busier than usual.  Finally, embrace the festive atmosphere—whether you’re watching events live or exploring world-class skiing, the Dolomites will be buzzing with Olympic energy!

 

Final Thoughts on Planning a Dolomites Adventure Travel Itinerary

 

The Dolomites is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most stunning mountain ranges in the world.  From its dramatic peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and world-class outdoor activities, it’s a dream destination for adventure travelers.  With majestic views just outside your doorstep, and trails suitable for all levels, everyone in the family can enjoy the outdoors in the Dolomites.

In addition, many high alpine trails can be easily accessed from towns throughout the Dolomites thanks to an abundance of ski lifts, gondolas, funiculars, and cable cars.  Keep in mind, gondolas and ski lifts close at the end of the ski season (late March- early April), and then re-open in May/June through late October/early November for summertime activities.

Even if you’re not up for a big hike, taking a cable car up to one of the many mountain-top refugios can be quite exhilarating and an adventure in itself.

We hope this travel guide inspires you to visit.  The Dolomites offer endless opportunities for exploration, plus a chance to step back in time and experience both Ladin cultural traditions and WWI history.  If you do, please let us know when you’re coming so we can show you around!  If you want more tips on travel in the EU, here are some of our more popular blogs:

 

• Exploring Spain’s Costa Brava: The Wild Coast
• Digital Nomad Visa: The Truth Behind What it Takes to Work Remotely in Europe
• Watching the Tour de France Live and In Person

 

Until next time, happy travels, and thanks for reading!

Meredith Caccese McConvill, Top Rope Media