Destination: Italy – Dolomites

History

The history of these valleys is marked by the encounter between the Latin and Germanic worlds. A cultural pillar of the region is the Ladin community, which still preserves a unique language and traditions in the heart of the central valleys. In the 20th century, the territory became the tragic stage of the Great War: the Dolomite front forced soldiers into a grueling life at high altitudes, leaving behind trenches, tunnels, and military outposts (such as those of Lagazuoi) which have now become precious paths of memory and open-air museums.

 

Territory

The heart of the Dolomites’ charm lies in its origin: about 250 million years ago, these mountains were coral reefs submerged in a tropical sea. This marine genesis left behind dolomite, a rock capable of reflecting light in an extraordinary way. This gives rise to the Enrosadira phenomenon, which at sunrise and sunset lights up the walls with fiery shades, from pink to bright red. The territory is a continuous contrast between the verticality of the spires, such as the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and the deep blue of famous bodies of water like Lake Braies or Lake Carezza.

 

Climate

The climate is typically alpine, offering radically different experiences depending on the period. Winter is the season of white and skiing, featuring cutting-edge resorts like Dolomiti Superski. Summer is the ideal time for trekking and mountaineering, thanks to cool temperatures that offer shelter from the city heat. However, Autumn offers the most spectacular views for photography, thanks to the larch foliage that transforms the forests into golden expanses under the snowy peaks.

 

Cuisine and typical products

Dolomite cuisine reflects authentic peasant life, born from the union of Tyrolean precision and Italian creativity. Symbolic dishes include Canederli (bread and speck dumplings), Ampezzo-style Casunziei with beetroot filling, and polenta served with mushrooms and game. Among the local excellences are South Tyrolean Speck PGI, flavorful mountain cheeses, and crunchy apples, the stars of the famous Apple Strudel. Every flavor tells the story of the indissoluble bond between man and the high peaks.

 

Places and attractions to visit

The Dolomites are a year-round destination for active travellers.

• Summer in the Dolomites offers panoramic hiking trails, via ferratas, rock climbing, mountain biking routes, road cycling passes and iconic alpine lakes such as Lake Braies.
• Winter in the Dolomites turns the area into a paradise for snow sports, thanks to world-famous ski resorts like Dolomiti Superski, offering alpine skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

 

Dolomites villages: eco-friendly travel through alpine towns and nature

Exploring alpine villages such as Dobbiaco, San Candido, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Ortisei and Corvara means discovering authentic experiences surrounded by stunning scenery, local traditions and outdoor activities in harmony with nature.

Dobbiaco – Nature, cycling and slow travel
Dobbiaco, in the Alta Pusteria valley, is perfect for walking and cycling holidays. With its panoramic trails, Lake Dobbiaco and dedicated bike paths, it is ideal for sustainable and active travel experiences promoted by Ecologico Tours.

San Candido – Alpine charm and outdoor activities
Just a few minutes from Dobbiaco, San Candido is a charming alpine village with a welcoming historic centre. The surrounding area offers scenic walking routes and cycling paths suitable for families and couples seeking slow and responsible travel.

Cortina d’Ampezzo – The Queen of the Dolomites
Cortina d’Ampezzo combines alpine elegance, high-quality facilities and extraordinary mountain scenery. Beyond skiing and hiking, visitors can enjoy cultural experiences, local museums and panoramic cycling routes, making it an excellent base for exploring the Dolomites.

Ortisei – Ladin culture and alpine landscapes
Located in Val Gardena, Ortisei is a vibrant village where Ladin traditions meet outdoor activities. It is a perfect starting point for hiking on the Alpe di Siusi, cycling tours and peaceful walks immersed in nature.

Corvara in Badia – Hiking, MTB and local gastronomy
Corvara is a top destination for trekking and mountain biking in the Dolomites. Part of the Dolomiti Superski and Sellaronda area, it offers spectacular routes and excellent Ladin cuisine, ideal for travellers interested in sustainable and responsible tourism.

 

Explore the Dolomites with Ecologico Tours

Ecologico Tours specialises in walking and cycling tours across Europe, with a strong focus on Italy and sustainable travel.

Our tours allow you to:

• Discover alpine villages and natural landscapes through carefully selected itineraries
• Explore the Dolomites on foot or by bike while respecting the environment
• Combine nature, culture and local food for a truly authentic travel experience

 

The Dolomites are the perfect destination for slow, active and eco-friendly travel.