Holidays in the Dolomites

Step into Europe's Most Striking Mountain Range on a Summer Walking Holiday in the Dolomites

View all Dolomites walking deals

  • Experience world-class hiking, cycling, and adventure activities in the stunning UNESCO-listed Dolomites
  • Enjoy incredible food and wine, from Michelin-starred restaurants to cosy mountain huts
  • Explore charming alpine villages, historic castles, and lively cultural events

Discover the Dolomites

The Dolomites are an adventure lover’s paradise. This UNESCO-listed mountain range is known for its dramatic peaks, breathtaking valleys, and an endless variety of outdoor activities. Whether you’re here for high-altitude hiking, scenic cycling routes, or sampling world-class food and wine, there’s something for everyone.

Pack your walking boots and explore panoramic trails, hop on a bike for thrilling downhill rides, or take a guided historic tour through medieval castles and charming alpine villages. After a day of adventure, unwind with a glass of locally-produced wine while soaking up views that will stay with you forever.

Walking holidays in the Dolomites

A walking holiday in the Dolomites is all about the views. Catch the first light at sunrise or hike into the golden glow of sunset when the jagged mountain peaks take on a breathtaking pinkish hue, a phenomenon known as enrosadira.

Thanks to the region’s extensive lift network, accessing high-altitude trails is effortless. Challenge yourself with a hike up Piz Boè from Corvara, or take it easy with scenic valley walks in Val Gardena while staying in Selva. There are endless routes for all levels, from relaxed rambles to challenging summit treks.

Things to Do in the Dolomites

Holidays to the Dolomites are unlike anywhere else, combining striking mountain scenery with rich history and culture. Towering peaks, medieval castles dating back to the 1300s, and vibrant alpine villages create a landscape packed with discoveries.

Public transport and mountain lifts make getting around easy, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Spend a day exploring the many cycling trails in Kronpltaz, visit traditional markets in Ortisei, or experience the lively Ladin folk festival in Canazei with its music, dance, and colourful costumes.

Activities in the Dolomites

Hiking and walking are at the heart of any Dolomites holiday, with trails for all levels offering unforgettable views. Whether you prefer leisurely valley strolls or challenging summit hikes, there’s a perfect route for you. Cycling is just as popular, with rugged mountain trails for experienced riders and scenic road routes for those wanting to take in the landscape at a gentler pace. E-bikes are widely available, making it easier than ever to explore.

For an adrenaline rush, tackle world-class via ferrata routes, soar over the mountains paragliding, or cool off with an exhilarating rafting adventure on a hot summer day. If you prefer a more relaxed approach, you can enjoy a round of golf on scenic alpine courses or unwind in a luxury thermal spa, soaking up the mountain air while you relax.

Food & Drink in the Dolomites

A holiday in the Dolomites is a treat for food lovers. This region has more Michelin-starred restaurants than anywhere else in Italy, but you don’t need a fine-dining reservation to experience incredible flavours.

Scattered across the mountains, rifugi (mountain huts) serve up hearty local dishes, perfect for a lunch stop after spending a morning out on the walking trails. Try speck, a smoky, flavour-packed cured ham, or canederli – handmade dumplings served in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. And don’t leave without sampling a slice of traditional apple strudel, best enjoyed with a mountain view.

Family Holidays in the Dolomites

The Dolomites are ideal for an active family holiday. There are plenty of accessible walking trails for kids and teens, and many resorts offer adventure programmes packed with fun activities.

When they’ve had their fill of mountain adventures, cool off with a swim, hop on a cable car for a scenic ride, or enjoy a well-earned break at a cosy mountain hut. Whether it’s hiking, biking, or just soaking in the spectacular views, there’s no better place to create unforgettable family memories.

Why book a summer holiday in the Dolomites holiday with Inghams

Experience the freedom of flexible walking holidays in the Dolomites with Inghams. With no fixed itineraries and no moving around each night, you can simply unpack, settle in, and explore at your own pace.

  • With 90 years of travel experience, we know how to take the hassle out of your holiday to the Dolomites
  • Flights, transfers, and accommodation are included in every holiday package plus two optional guided walks per week in some resorts
  • We’re with you every step of the way with insider knowledge and tailored support from our Destination Experts during your holiday
  • During your stay you’ll have access to our Digital Resort Guides, which are packed with self-guided walks, things to do and useful information for your Dolomites holiday

  • from£854pp
The Puez Odle Natural Park in Selva

Hike in the shadow of Mount Sassolungo, walk along flower-filled meadows or simply sit and enjoy local food and in a mountain hut on a summer holiday in Selva.

Best for: all walking abilities, large walking area, guided walks, high altitude, national parks, wow-factor, food & drink, activities 

Includes up to two guided walks

  • from£819pp
Vineyards, Lakes & Mountains in Merano

Merano is sheltered by high mountains and surrounded by orchards and vineyards, meaning it has an alpine landscape and Mediterranean climate: the perfect combination for a relaxing summer holiday. Walking opportunities are available from the centre of town, or up in the mountains and the food and wine is out of this world!

Best for: All walking abilities; nature; sightseeing; food & drink

Includes up to two guided walks

  • from£1109pp
Traditional Houses in Colfosco

Corvara is the largest village in Alta Badia and just along the road is Colfosco. Both resorts are at the foot of some of the most famous mountains in the area. You’ll have two national parks to explore while you’re here. It’s perfect for walking, cycling, relaxing, and active families seeking outdoor fun on their summer holiday.

Best for: all walking abilities; nature; active holidays; food & drink; families

  • from£794pp
Welcome to Canazei

Canazei is the jewel of Val di Fassa and a summer paradise for walking and outdoor activity lovers. Home to the highest plateau in Europe this is a fantastic place for immersing yourself in the dominating Dolomite landscape and the ideal place for families in search for their next outdoor adventure holiday.

Best for: all walking abilities; nature; activities; families

Includes up to two guided walks

  • from£1384pp
Traditional Markets in Ortisei

Ortisei's a beautiful mountain village nestled in the Italian Dolomites. It's the perfect base for walking, cycling, tasting fantastic local food and exploring mountain landscapes in the summer.

Best for: all walking abilities; nature; activities; food & drink

  • from£749pp
Sunset in Madonna di Campiglio ©Paolo Bisti

From family walking trails to immersive mountain hikes, get back to nature in Madonna di Campiglio's sublime landscape. A fantastic resort for all ages, why not take a break from looking at smart phones and spend some quality time looking at mountains instead!

Best for: all walking abilities; nature; activities; families

  • from£1189pp
Fanes-Senes-Pargs Nature Reserve in Kronplatz

Kronplatz has some of the most spectacular scenery in Italy. Whether you're after an active walking holiday or a relaxing retreat making the most of nature, this is a great choice for your Italian summer getaway. 

Best for: all walking abilities; nature; activities; food & drink; families

  • from£1232pp
San Cassiano Town

Beneath the impressive Lagazuoi Mountain, the sophisticated Dolomite village of San Cassiano is the ideal starting point for many exciting hikes and climbs. When it comes to food, this is the perfect place to come if you're looking for a gourmet surprise!

Best for: all walking abilities; nature; activities; food & drink

Things 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.

It's 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 dessert 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.

The Dolomites Holiday FAQs

What walking trails are there in the Dolomites?

The Dolomites offer a variety of walking trails in one of Europe's most stunning UNESCO-protected mountain ranges. Easily accessible by lift, these trails provide breathtaking views, especially at sunrise or sunset when the peaks glow red. Whether you prefer hiking, mountain biking, or enjoying scenic vistas, there's something for everyone. The area is also great for exploring local farms and wine tasting, making it a perfect destination for an adventure-filled holiday.

How can I explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Dolomites ?

To explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Dolomites, you can visit the astonishing peaks within Nature Parks such as Three Peaks, Fanes-Sennes-Braies, Sciliar-Rosengarten, Puez-Odle, and GeoParc Bletterbach. You can choose between self-guided walks, which allow you to explore at your own pace, or opt for our included guided walks led by professional local guides.

Where can I find information on scenic alpine walks in the Dolomites?

You can find information on scenic alpine walks in the Dolomites on our resort pages under the 'walking' tab, or when on your holiday, our in-resort reps can also provide more information on recommended walking routes. For a digital guide, download the free Val Gardena Outdoor app from Google Play or the App Store, which includes several walking routes. If you prefer using paper maps, we recommend Kompass 59 or Kompass 76 for detailed maps of the area.

What are the must-see viewpoints and mountain passes in the Dolomites?

Explore the Dolomites' stunning scenery through key hikes: The Panascharte to Seceda offers an 8km trail with views of the Odle peaks, accessible from Ortisei via cable car. The 7km hike to Pic Mountain from San Cristina rewards with 360-degree vistas. The challenging 17km Round the Sassolungo Group passes iconic rock formations and panoramic highlands. For a unique perspective, the 13km Sass da Ciampac Circumnavigation reveals rugged terrains akin to lunar landscapes.

Are there any guided walking tours available to discover the Dolomite peaks and valleys?

Yes, guided walking tours are available to explore the Dolomite peaks and valleys in Selva, Canazei, and Merano. Each location offers full-day guided walks every Monday and Friday. Canazei provides a variety of trails suitable for all abilities, making it family-friendly. Selva features unlimited walking paths, stunning mountain views, and local cuisine. Merano offers beautiful vistas and natural beauty, ideal for exploring the mountainous region. Head to our Guided Walks page to find out more.

Good to know

Fly into: Verona or Innsbruck (approx. 2 hours)

Fly from: Manchester, London Gatwick, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Stansted, East Midlands, Leeds Bradford, Newcastle, Belfast

On holiday support and tailored advice from our Destination Experts based in the Dolomites

Inghams Digital Resort Guide included with things to do, walks and useful information on holiday

Inghams Guided Walks included in selected resorts

 

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