The Dolomites offer more than the popular Alta Via trails. While the multi-day hikes along Alta Via 1 and 2 are the main attraction, there’s a world of adventure waiting just off these classic routes. From the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop to beautiful alpine lakes and cute towns, the Dolomites provide endless options for explorers eager to see more.
After completing the Alta Via 1, we decided to head to Lake Misurina, an ideal base for exploring nearby hikes and enjoying the serene mountain scenery. This picturesque lake, surrounded by towering peaks, offers several accommodation options, including cozy hotels and a spacious campsite. From Misurina, you have easy access to some trails, including the route to Tre Cime di Lavaredo, making it a convenient and beautiful place to unwind and plan your next adventure.
Getting to Tre Cime di Lavaredo from Lake Misurina
Reaching Tre Cime di Lavaredo from Lake Misurina is straightforward, whether you prefer to take public transport or hike directly from the lake.
By Bus
A seasonal shuttle bus operates between Lake Misurina and Rifugio Auronzo, the starting point for the popular Tre Cime loop. The bus is convenient for those looking to save time or energy for hiking around the peaks themselves. The schedules vary slightly by season, so checking in advance is recommended.
Hiking from Lake Misurina
For those who want to hike from Lake Misurina to Tre Cime, there’s a trail that begins right at the lake and leads up to Rifugio Auronzo.
Tre Cime loop
The road to Tre Cime di Lavaredo begins right next to the campsite near Lake Misurina, where you’ll also find a convenient parking lot. The hike starts along a narrow trail running parallel to the main road, leading you to Lake Antorno—a peaceful spot and a great place to rest before tackling the more challenging sections of the trail.
After Lake Antorno, the path winds deeper into the forest, and the elevation gain becomes more noticeable. This section offers shaded areas and stunning glimpses of the surrounding peaks, setting the stage for the dramatic views ahead.
Once we reached Rifugio Auronzo, we took a short detour to visit a nearby viewpoint, which we highly recommend if you have the time. After soaking in the panoramic vistas, we returned to Auronzo, where the official Tre Cime loop begins. For our hike, we decided to tackle the loop clockwise.
Our first stop was at Malga Langalm, a charming hut nestled at the base of Tre Cime. Here, we indulged in fresh, homemade pasta and refreshing drinks while taking in breathtaking close-up views of the iconic peaks. Refueled, we continued to Rifugio Locatelli, where we spent the night. The area around Locatelli features a short trail leading to a fascinating cave with framed views of Tre Cime—a must-see for photographers and nature lovers alike.
The next morning, we resumed our hike, stopping briefly at Rifugio Lavaredo, a smaller, authentic alpine hut that exudes rustic charm. From there, we completed the loop and returned to Misurina.
The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with Tre Cime standing tall as an invitation to explore and be amazed.
Hiking to Lake Sorapis: The Trail We Missed
One hike we regret missing during our trip was the trail to Lake Sorapis, one of the most breathtaking destinations in the Dolomites. Known for its surreal turquoise waters surrounded by magestic peaks, Lake Sorapis is a bucket-list spot for hikers in the region. Unfortunately, bad weather kept us from exploring it this time, but it's definitely at the top of our list for a next opportunity.
Lake Sorapis Hike
The hike begins at Passo Tre Croci, a mountain pass just a short drive from Lake Misurina. The trail is well-marked (Trail 215) and takes approximately 2-3 hours to reach the lake. Along the way, you’re treated to a mix of dense forests, rocky paths, and occasional glimpses of the stunning Dolomite peaks. While the trail isn’t overly technical, there are a few narrow sections and some moderate climbs that may require attention.
Close to the lake there a hut where you can eat and spend a night if you wish. Rifugio Vandelli is a charming alpine surrounded by stunning views of the Sorapis group peaks and provides a perfect base for exploring the lake and other nearby trails. It’s crucial to book your stay well in advance during peak season.
Final Stop: Cortina d'Ampezzo
We wrapped up our Dolomites adventure with a visit to Cortina d’Ampezzo, a charming mountain town often referred to as the "Queen of the Dolomites". Nestled in a valley surrounded by dramatic peaks, Cortina is a good option to experience a different side of the Dolomites. Cortina has a little bit of everything: a lively town center, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty.
Local Cuisine: A Taste of the Italian Alps
For food lovers, Cortina is a culinary treasure. The town is home to numerous restaurants serving authentic mountain dishes from the Veneto region. From casunziei (beet-filled ravioli) to hearty polenta and local cured meats like speck, every meal is an opportunity to experience the flavors of the Italian Alps. Pair your meal with a glass of regional wine or finish with a slice of strudel, and you’ve got the perfect alpine dining experience.
A Winter Olympics Legacy
Cortina d’Ampezzo is more than just a beautiful alpine town; it holds a prestigious place in sports history as the host of the 1956 Winter Olympics. Today, the town proudly celebrates its Olympic legacy, with references to the event visible in local bars, historic buildings, and souvenir shops.
