It was time to leave behind the commotion of the city and head north from Venice towards the Dolomites. The Dolomites were definitely number one on our “Must-See” list for this trip.
We left Venice with somewhat mixed feelings because, well, it was Venice, but at the same time eagerly anticipating the appearance of the Dolomite peaks on the horizon. Soon after leaving Venice, the landscape began to change, and the mountains started to emerge on the horizon.
Our first stop and overnight stay was in Belluno, considered to be the beginning of the Dolomites. Belluno is approximately 100 km from Venice. We booked accommodation at the Hotel Europa Belluno, which was very clean and served its purpose perfectly for a one-night stay on the road. The hotel room cost 59 โฌ per night.
After a good night’s sleep, we continued our journey towards the Western Dolomites. We had several spots in mind that we wanted to visit, but unfortunately, the weather didn’t fully cooperate with us this time.
We were in the Dolomites in early September, which meant that the risk of rain was higher. We encountered rain on several days, and some of the planned destinations remained unvisited due to rain and, especially, cloudy weather. Rain alone might not be an obstacle, but if the landscapes are entirely covered by clouds, it’s not enticing for hiking. But it’s a reason to come back again ๐ And we were traveling by car, so we could easily change our plans.We definitely recommend having a car to get around the Dolomites, but if that’s not possible, don’t skip the visit for that reason; apparently, getting around by bus is also quite feasible, but it requires more planning.
Must-See Places in the Western Dolomites
Our base for exploring the Western Dolomites was the Garni Aparthotel Princess in the village of Penia, right next to Canazei.
The accommodation was good, with spacious rooms, a kitchen, a balcony/terrace in the room, and the hotel also had its own small spa. The location was excellent for exploring the Western Dolomites. The hotel cost 93 โฌ per night.
Great Dolomite Road
The Great Dolomite Road is an incredible scenic route that offers breathtaking views of the Dolomites. The road passes through Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo, winding through serpentine roads, mountain peaks, and small alpine villages. If we had to choose only one road in the Dolomites, it would be this one. In one word: Unforgettable!
The route runs from Bolzano to Vigo di Fassa on road SS241, then to Canazei on road SS48, and continues to Cortina d’Ampezzo on roads SS48 and SR48.
St. Valentin Church, Siusi
A stunning St. Valentin church is surrounded by meadows, near the village of Siusi on the western edge of the Dolomites. In the background, the magnificent Schlern (Sciliar) mountain creates a truly unique landscape. It’s worth leaving the car in the village and taking a short, 15-30 minute walk to the church. The church is very picturesque and an excellent place to enjoy the beauty of the area’s nature.
Lago di Carezza (Karersee)
Lago di Carezza is located amidst stunning mountain scenery along road SS241 on the Great Dolomite Road. The views here are incredible, as almost everywhere you turn in the Dolomites ๐ When you reach the lake from the parking lot, you immediately encounter the best views of the lake, where majestic mountains, forests, and the turquoise waters of the lake meet. There is a short and easy walking path around the lake, allowing you to admire the lake from different angles.
The parking area is located on the opposite side of the road, where there are also a few kiosks selling souvenirs and snacks.
Passo Gardena
Truly stunning and rugged mountain scenery along road SS243. There are fantastic hiking trails, and it’s easy to take a short walk up for better views. The mountains rise on both sides of the road.
We stopped here for a short hike and also took some photos, enjoying coffee with mountain views on the lovely terrace of Rifugio Frara in the autumn sun.
Seceda
Although we missed experiencing Seceda due to the weather, it still must be mentioned. A stunning, ridge-like mountain that will definitely be one of our first destinations on our next Dolomite trip.
Villages Worth Visiting
Canazei – A charming alpine village with about 2,000 inhabitants in Val di Fassa, right in the heart of the Dolomiti Superski area, so it’s an excellent place for skiing in winter. It’s ideally located as a base for exploring the Dolomites.
Pozza di Fassa – A beautiful and small alpine village surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. There are plenty of hiking options in the surrounding mountains.
St. Magdalena – A cute, small village also surrounded by stunning mountains. Be sure to visit the Chiesa di Santa Maddalena and Chiesetta di San Giovanni churches.
Selva di Val Gardena – A slightly larger village with about 2,500 inhabitants, also surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. There are also numerous hiking trails here leading to the beautiful Dolomite landscapes.
