- Savour local food in trattorias, traditional farmhouses and mountain rifugi
- Learn about pre-historic wildlife at the Museum Ladin Ursus ladinicus
- Walk through forests on the Larch Trail
The mountain village of San Cassiano lounges between the Lavarela and Conturines peaks of the Alta Badia – a lively ski region that transforms into a laid-back hikers’ haven in summer. Active folk pilgrimage here from all over the world to spend their days walking, cycling, rock climbing and practising yoga in the crystal-clear mountain air. Come evening, you don’t need to look further than the town centre, where restaurants range from no-nonsense trattorias to gourmet eateries. This is also where you’ll find the walking lift that whisks you up to the mountain plateau for an aperitivo with a view; perfect for your summer walking holiday in the Dolomites.
Walking holidays in San Cassiano
For an easy summer walk, head for the Path of the Larches, which loops around the – you guessed it – larch forests just north of San Cassiano, passing by water mills and stone-walled farms. It’s an easy route to some spectacular Dolomite views. The neighbouring Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park is also best seen from its footpaths. From here, you can walk to peaks and high mountain meadows, or you could do a more moderate walk to the mirrored waters of Lago Lagazuoi or the slab-like peaks of Brunecker Turm; both of which can be reached by cable car. Alternatively, swap boots for bikes on one of the many mountainous cycling routes.
Summer holidays to San Cassiano
At barely a kilometre long from top to toe, it’s easy to get to know San Cassiano (or San Ćiascian, in the local language of Ladin). Its roads smooth out along the green valley floor, leading between timber inns and eateries. San Cassiano church seems to mirror the mountains around, with its limestone cap, snow-white walls and finery-filled insides. There’s even a Wednesday food market – check out the salami and olive oil stalls – and the summertime concerts.
Tasting mountain food & wine
San Cassiano might be small, but the food scene is mighty. Farmhouse restaurants and trattorias cook up rich mountain dishes like spinach ravioli (cajincí te ega) and apple pancakes (pössl da pom). The bakeries and delis are the best place for a cappuccino and the Dolomites’ signature bomboloni alla crema doughnuts. Go in search of rare wines from small vineyards in the Tyrol and the delicious mountain food found in traditional rifugi (mountain huts). “Bun pro!”, as they say in Ladinia.
History in the Dolomites: Ursus ladinicus, the bear bones
You never know what you might find while walking in the mountains around San Cassiano. In 1987, a local hiker exploring Conturines Cave made the headlines by stumbling across the remains of 12 prehistoric bears. The reconstructed skeletons are now at home in the Museum Ladin Ursus ladinicus in San Cassiano. Over three floors, discover how archaeologists pieced together this previously unknown species of cave bear, while learning more about the intriguing geography and geology of the Dolomites.
Why book a summer holiday in San Cassiano with Inghams?
Experience the freedom of flexible walking holidays in San Cassiano 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 San Cassiano
- Flights, transfers, and accommodation are included in every holiday package
- 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 San Cassiano holiday
Discover more Inghams holidays to the Dolomites
