Dolomites like a local: 10 unmissable things to do and see

The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are one of the most fascinating and varied destinations in Italy. Although famous for its spectacular peaks and outdoor activities such as skiing in winter and trekking in summer, this mountain is much more than just a tourist destination. From less-travelled walks to culinary rituals that locals adore, the Dolomites offer endless possibilities. Immerse yourself in traditions, attend markets, and participate in village festivals: each experience enriches the journey with profound meaning. Here you will find 10 suggestions for exploring the mountains like the people who live there, amidst hidden refugees and heart-warming traditions. Each of these activities will allow you to discover unique aspects of the Dolomites and have a truly authentic experience.

Here are the 10 things you absolutely must do when you are in the Dolomites, inspired by the locals, of course. Each suggestion will guide you through flavours, landscapes and traditions that will make your stay unforgettable.

The day starts early in the Dolomites, and the locals know it well. One of the best-loved rituals is a breakfast at high altitude with fresh doughnuts: soft and filled with lingonberry jam or cream in various flavours, they are perfect to give you the energy you need for a day in the open air. The Dolomite refuges are ideal places to start the day with a touch of sweetness. Here, the panorama is combined with traditional flavours, creating a perfect combination for an unforgettable awakening. For those who live in the mountains, the high-altitude refuge is a landing place, a place of refreshment that welcomes with simplicity. It is not the luxury that defines it, but the unique atmosphere: the profound silence and the emotion of a sunrise or sunset framed by the majesty of the peaks.

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Lake Braies are spectacular and famous destinations, but it is in the lesser-visited valleys that the true magic of the Dolomites lies. Grab a map and head for the Friulian Dolomites or the San Lucano Valley, where silence dominates and the views seem painted. These places offer the perfect retreat for those seeking a more intimate connection with nature, away from the crowds. Here, every step reveals scenes of pristine beauty, from crystal-clear streams to lush forests. You can wander through authentic villages, listen to the stories of the inhabitants and enjoy an atmosphere that seems suspended in time. It is an experience that invites you to slow down and savour every moment.

The Dolomites are spectacular all year round, but to experience them as a local, it is best to avoid peak periods such as August and Christmas. Spring and early autumn are ideal for exploring the mountains in tranquillity. During these seasons, the colours of nature are more vivid, the days pleasantly cool and the trails less crowded. Take advantage of this period to discover iconic places without the pressure of mass tourism, enjoying a more authentic and relaxed experience. At such times, the Dolomites offer a peace that amplifies their charm, inviting you to explore solitary trails and experience the mountains in their purest essence.

The Dolomite passes are true windows onto breathtaking panoramas. Among the most spectacular are the Passo Gardena and the Passo Giau. The latter, in particular, offers an extraordinary view at sunset, when the sky is tinged with intense colours and the surrounding peaks seem to glow in their light. Traversing these passes, especially during off-peak hours, is an experience that gives unique emotions and a deep connection with the mountains. Stop for a break, breathe in the fresh air and let the silence envelop you. Every bend and every glimpse of these passes tells a different story, one of beauty, effort and discovery.

The Dolomites are not only natural beauty but also an open-air history book. Exploring the paths of Sass de Stria or Lagazuoi, you can relive the crucial moments of the First World War. The trenches, tunnels and open-air museums tell stories of courage and sacrifice, immersing you in a past that profoundly marked these mountains. Walking these trails is an exciting experience that combines culture, nature and memory. Each step is a journey back in time, where the beauty of the views mixes with the intensity of the human events that took place here.

The high-altitude Alpine pastures represent the beating heart of the Dolomites' culinary tradition. Here, farmers transform local products into true delicacies. Taste the malga cheese, with its authentic flavour, and the Dolomiti Bellunesi PDO honey, known for its purity and sweetness. These places are not just refreshment points, but real treasure troves of culture, where gastronomy merges with the surrounding landscape, offering an unforgettable experience. Enjoying lunch in a malga also means coming into contact with the traditions and work of those who live and guard these lands with dedication.

The huts in the Dolomites are not mere structures, but authentic natural terraces overlooking spectacular views. The Nuvolau refuge, located at 2575 metres, is a perfect example. Accessible only on foot, it offers unparalleled views of the most iconic peaks. To spend a few hours in a refuge like this is to immerse yourself completely in the beauty of the mountains, letting time pass slowly. Here you can relax, enjoy a hot meal and watch the panorama change with the light of day, in an experience that fills the soul.

Village festivals are the perfect opportunity to discover the traditions of the Dolomites. By participating in the Om Salvarech in La Valle Agordina, you can taste typical dishes such as the tocà da boia and immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of a village festival. Likewise, the Ladin Carnival offers the opportunity to taste traditional sweets such as strauben and to experience moments of celebration and conviviality with the locals. The festivals are an explosion of colours, flavours and music, allowing you to enter into the heart of local traditions.

The Dolomites offer countless spectacular peaks, but to avoid the crowds, aim for lesser-known mountains such as Monte Pore. Its strategic position will give you extraordinary views, ranging from the highest peaks to the meadows below. Climbing these peaks means experiencing the mountains in an authentic way, far from the hustle and bustle of the more popular destinations, and enjoying unparalleled peace. Every step towards the summit is an invitation to discovery, where fatigue turns into satisfaction and the views repay every effort.

The inhabitants of the Dolomites are the true custodians of the region and its traditions. Talk to them, and ask for tips on lesser-known trails or authentic restaurants. Their deep knowledge of the area is a precious resource that can transform your trip into a unique experience. Thanks to their stories, you’ll uncover hidden corners and tales that make these mountains even more fascinating. Listening to their advice will help you experience the Dolomites from a fresh, enriching perspective.

The Dolomites are a heritage of natural beauty, history, and culture. Experiencing these mountains like a local means slowing down, observing, and respecting their essence. Be prepared to be amazed by every corner of this extraordinary alpine landscape.

The alpenglow is a unique phenomenon that paints the peaks of the Dolomites in shades of pink and orange during sunrise and sunset. One of the best places to admire this natural magic is the path that leads from Passo Rolle to Baita Segantini. Here, the Pale di San Martino Mountains transform into an enchanting spectacle, leaving you breathless. To fully appreciate this phenomenon, plan your visit in the spring or autumn months when the light is more intense and the quiet atmosphere makes everything even more special. Watching the alpenglow is an almost meditative experience, connecting you deeply with nature and its daily cycle of light and shadow.