The Dolomites are a group of mountains located in the East section of the Alps. The characteristic that makes these mountains so special and recognizable among the Alps is that they are mostly made of Dolomia, a rock composed mainly of the mineral dolomite. This peculiarity is what gives Dolomites their unique look: a pale color that makes them fascinating and mysterious and causing a phenomenon called "enrosadira," where the Dolomites, struck by the light of dawn and dusk, turn red. Although the phenomenon is particularly evident in summer, it remains visible throughout the year. Not surprisingly, the Dolomites attract both Italian and foreign tourists all year round. Let's discover what to do in the Dolomites all year round.

The main activity to do in the Dolomites in summer is trekking. The mountains are filled with trails suitable for all levels of expertise. The long walks among the Alps are enjoyable as themselves but they are also the best way to reach refuges, where you can have a taste of the local cuisine, and spectacular places hidden among the mountains: lakes, glaciers, and peaks from which to admire the amazing panorama. Some of these places are also accessible by shuttle buses, but some are inaccessible by any means of transport other than your own legs!

Equipping yourself with trekking shoes and poles is the best way to discover the true secrets of the Dolomites. 

For those seeking adventure, the Dolomites are the perfect place. The protected climbing routes (only accessible to experts equipped with the necessary safety gear) traverse the peaks and less accessible points of the Dolomites, leading to special places: high summits or glaciers. The “Via Ferrata” is a climbing route in the mountains that employs steel cables, rungs, or ladders, fixed to the rock to which the climbers affix a harness with two leashes, which allows the climbers to secure themselves to the metal fixture and limit any fall. 

The villages in the Italian mountains may look like paintings but they are absolutely real. Wooden houses with sloping roofs, flowers on balconies, typical local architecture, and winding streets... walking through the villages of the Dolomites makes you feel like you're inside a postcard, out of this world, immersed in tranquility.

Visiting the villages is also an opportunity to experience firsthand the unique features of these area, which include gastronomic delights as well as small objects, clothes, and liqueurs, a must-see part of the Dolomites’ treasure. Make sure to stop by Cortina, an amazing spot near the Dolomites for everything luxury! 

Refuges in the Dolomites are small constructions located high in the mountains, far away from the villages, and sometimes hardly accessible. These structures usually offer a restaurant and sometimes bedrooms. Spending the night in the Dolomites in a refuge is a wonderful experience. Stars would never been so close, the silence would never been so warm, and waking up with the sound of animals is a unique experience.

In some refuges, bedrooms are also available during winter, but making this experience in summer makes it way more comfortable. 

If the main summer activity in the Dolomites is trekking, the winter counterpart is definitely skiing. In winter, many ski resorts open in the Dolomites. Often, they are located very close to hotels and mountain refuges.

Just like the trekking trails, the ski slopes are numerous and suitable for all levels of expertise. The facilities are equipped with all the comforts, and skiing among the pale and red Dolomites is an unforgettable experience. 

The Bernina Express is a famous red train that crosses the Alps and reaches Saint Moritz. As with the best journeys, the Bernina Express does not simply take you to your destination. The experience is the journey itself. You can cross the snowy Alps and stop in characteristic villages before taking the next train to the next village, all the way to Saint Moritz. The latter is a very famous Swiss town: the village is lovely to visit and is home to boutiques of the most famous Italian and international brands.

The Bernina Express is also active in summer. The beauty of the journey is identical, but instead of snowy mountains, you would pass through green hills, grazing animals, and breathtaking scenery. 

Some trekking trails are also accessible during winter in the Dolomites. Of course, these will be snowy! As in summer, winter excursions are enjoyable in themselves but are also a means to reach hidden places, such as frozen lakes. 

In some places, such as San Candido on Mount Baranci, it is possible to go sledding or skiing at night. The slopes are secured by the staff who open them after sunset. They are enlightened with powerful headlights, but you would also be required to bring a headlight.

Night skiing or sledding is a way to enjoy another facet of these incredibly beautiful mountains.

In conclusion, the Dolomites offer a wide array of activities throughout the year, catering to both adventurers and those seeking tranquility. 

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