The Dolomites With Kids: The Very Best Places + Travel Tips
The best places to visit on the Dolomites with kids and travel tips for the perfect family vacation on the Italian Dolomites.
The Dolomites, the stretch of Alps in the North East of Italy, are one of the most beautiful places in Italy for natural beauty and a wonderful vacation destination for families.
The area has stunning mountains, picture-perfect villages with balconies adorned with cascading flowers that seem out of a fairy tale and a plethora of hiking options for adventurous families.
It also has options for animal encounters and outdoor entertainment for kids that make them a great vacation spot for children big and small.
I have been vacationing in the Dolomites since I was a child and now that I bring my kids to the area, they have also fallen in love with it .
The place is just special for children.
Nature here is imposing yet accessible, there are wonderful walking and hiking opportunities for all ages and farms and wildlife abound.
Rabbits, cows, horses but also eagles and ravens: whether you are staying on a farm or walking a pristine Alpine peak, nature is always around you and it is impossible not to feel refreshed and re-energized by it.
The Dolomites are overall a very family-friendly place however, some places are special to us and today we want to share them with you.
These are our favorite places to visit on the Dolomites with kids and our tops tips for planning a family trip to the area.
Dolomites Accommodation Can Be Pricey
Were not going to lie, that quality we mentioned above? Yeah, it can come with a decent price tag too.
Hotels in the Dolomites can be quite expensive, so if youre planning to stay predominantly in hotels for the majority of your stay we recommend budgeting for a minimum of 100 per night.
Of course, airbnbs can often be booked at a much cheaper rate, and weve listed options for you in each destination below.
Accommodation Can Book Up Very Quickly During Peak Times
Peak seasons can see visitor numbers to the region swell dramatically, and accommodation can often be booked up weeks in advance. This is particularly true for the mountain rifugios, which can only be booked direct and in advance.
Save yourself the disappointment of not getting your intended stay by booking well in advance of your trip.
Don’t Miss: What To Do In Winthrop
Best Time To Go Hiking In The Dolomites
Without sounding trite, the best time to visit the Dolomites is any time of year.
If youre hoping to see the fewest other hikers, head to the Dolomites in the spring or fall.
Summer is the most popular time to hike the Dolomites, but again, with fewer people taking the travel plunge – at least at first – you may be faced with smaller crowds even during high season. And once you get out of the city and up into the mountains, youll see even fewer people.
Consider any time between May and October a good time for hiking in the Dolomites. As a whole, the Dolomites see less precipitation than the rest of the Alps, with the Northern Dolomites seeing the least rain.
Spring is lovely in the Dolomites, as the warm weather returns and the days get longer. If its going to rain, this is the season to expect it, but remember, that very rainfall is what makes the views so lush and the wildflowers bloom.
As you head into summer, from mid-July to September, hiking in the Dolomites is at its prime. The warm days and cool nights make for incredible trekking and climbing conditions. Theres usually a refreshing breeze blowing along the valley floors and the temperatures arent generally higher than 80°F/ 25°C. Summer is the open season in the Dolomites, too, when you can expect all of the mountain huts and restaurants to be open and public transportation to be running.
There Are Fantastic Spas In The Dolomites
I think of the towns and villages here as ski towns, and many of them have stunning spa facilities you can enjoy all year long. Many of the hotels are wellness hotels and may include a sauna, steam room and hot tub. It can be wonderful to treat yourself to some time in the spa after a long day of hiking, biking or skiing, depending on the time of year you are there.
Don’t Miss: Lodging In Winthrop Washington
Where To Stay To Photograph The Autumn Foliage In The Dolomites
I always tell people that its best to divide a visit to the Dolomites in two parts. This way your daily driving time will be held to a minimum and you can spend more time enjoying the beautiful nature.
Stay in Sesto or Dobbiaco : visit Val Negra, Lago Dobbiaco, Lago Federa, Lago Antorno, Lago di Landro, Tre Cime National Park and Stiergarten.
Stay in Bolzano or Val Gardena: visit Seiser Alm, Val di Funes, Seceda, Passo Gardena and Val Venegia.
These are my absolute favourite locations so far to photograph the Autumn foliage in the Dolomites. But as you may know this area is also one of my absolute favourites so I cant wait to be back one day and make this article even better!
Dolomites Hiking / 9 Of The Best Day Hikes In The Dolomites
From beautiful alpine meadows to rocky mountain passes high pristine lakes and breathtaking circuits, there are day hikes in the Dolomites for all tastes and experience levels. Here is our guide to the 9 best day hikes ranging from easy strolls to exhilarating climbs.
Starting our Dolomites hiking early in the season, the alpine air was laced with the lingering chill of spring. Persistent snow clung to the high trails, making some crossings impossible. On the lower paths, alpine flowers were just starting to bloom. High above the meadows, formidable, jagged peaks diminished the rocky paths crunching under our hiking boots.
After a number of visits, the impossibly beautiful landscapes of the Italian Dolomites never cease to impress. Their allure growing every time. They may not have the height and grandeur of the snow-covered French peaks or cute villages and steep-sided valleys of the Swiss Alps.
But what sets the Dolomites apart are the dramatic limestone peaks. Crags that soar out of rolling green meadows. A landscape different to other alpine areas, where the change from rural idyll to inhospitable mountain is swift and stunning.
Weve hiked trails that meander through meadows, traversed steep slopes, and crossed high summits. Its the one area of the alps we know better than any other. This guide collects our favourite Dolomites hiking experiences.
Some are little more than a gentle stroll others will leave you panting at the top of a rocky peak.
BOOKING YOUR TRIP
Read Also: Winthrop Wa Places To Stay
Types Of Accommodation In The Dolomites
Despite the remoteness of some areas in the Dolomites, there is no shortage of amazing places to stay. From cabins on top of mountain peaks for hikers to five-star luxury spa hotels with brilliant views, the types of accommodations in the Dolomites often capitalize on what it is your itinerary will consist mostly of.
There are special things to note about types of accommodation in the Dolomites. For those who plan to hike, there are special cabins and hotels called Rifugio. These are in remote areas up in the peeks, perfect for outdoorsy and adventure travelers and also for those on a budget.
Another note on budget accommodation is the plethora of apartment stay options on Booking.com or Airbnb. These are perfect for those who want to spend most of their time exploring and just need a bed to sleep in. You can spend as little as $60 per night on an apartment stay.
There are virtually no hostels in the Dolomites, besides a couple in Merano, but that area is a bit far from the Dolomites best sites.
Mid-range, boutique hotels are by far the most popular kind of accommodation in the Dolomites. They are moderately priced starting around $120 per night and often include breakfast and potentially even dinner, saving money on dining out
Luxury hotels in the Dolomites are geared towards wellness and relaxation. They often boast incredible spa amenities and are perfect for travelers who want to soak up some views, mountain air, and relaxation, but dont care as much about exploring.
Other Outdoor Activities In The Dolomites
In addition to hiking, there are plenty of other outdoor activities in the Dolomites! Its one of the best places in Italy for rock climbing, and attracts climbers of all levels during the summer months. Its also an excellent place for road and mountain biking, with an abundance of wonderful trails through some of the most remarkable scenery in the country. If youre looking for even more thrills, its also possible to go rafting on some of the regions wildest rivers. Finally, the winter snows bring plenty of opportunities for downhill skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing, meaning that theres something here for adventure lovers at any time of the year!
Read Also: Bed And Breakfast Winthrop Wa
Discover The Best Holiday Offers
Whether you are planning a family holiday in summer or winter, a romantic weekend for two, a hiking or skiing holiday, the Dolomites offer a wide range of accommodation. The hotels of the region offer every comfort and exclusive services for relaxing days in the mountains. The selection ranges from luxurious 5-star hotels, first-class wellness and specialized theme hotels to cozy family hotels, which are tailored to the wishes and needs of children and their parents. In the apartments and chalets you can organize your daily routine individually and enjoy a stay in absolute privacy. For those who prefer to spend their holidays in the middle of nature, the Dolomites offer various alpine huts, farm holidays and campsites. The holiday portal Dolomites South Tyrol supports you in your search of the right accommodation for your wellness, hiking or skiing holiday in the mountains. In addition you will find valuable tips for leisure activities, restaurants and shopping facilities as well as the most important addresses and telephone numbers for a carefree holiday.
Enjoy A Stay Focused On Nature And Outdoor Activities In A 5 Star Hotel On The Alpe Di Siusi
Designed according to an eco-friendly concept, and harmoniously integrated into the surrounding environment, the Alpina Dolomites offers a wide range of activities for sports and nature lovers, as well as refined hospitality and genuine expertise for vacations dedicated to overall wellbeing.At the Alpina Dolomites you can enjoy unforgettable vacations all year round. Its location on the Alpe di Siusi – Seiser Alm is ideal for all kinds of sports activities, from skiing in winter to hiking in summer. But also those who are looking for relaxation will find a wide choice of spa and wellness proposals mostly inspired by nature. Everything here is in keeping with the fascinating surrounding landscape: cordial hospitality, attentive service, exquisite cuisine and exceptional comfort.
You May Like: Vrbo Houghton Mi
Belvedere Airbnb In The Mountains
The self-contained Belvedere airbnb is a haven in the hills, just 10-minutes walk from the centre of Cortina and with stunning views over the nearby mountains. Its also just 5min from the slopes of Socrepes in the Tofane ski area.
This 1-bedroom apartment has a fully equipped kitchen, reserved parking space, free wifi, heating, and everything you could need for your summer or winter adventure.
Fun Facts About Cortina Dampezzo
- Cortina in Belluno, Dolomites, is hosting the 2021 Alpine Ski World Cup.
- This fun fact is for all the James Bond fans out there. You can take selfies around the locations shot for For Your Eyes Only. Unleash your inner Bond.
- Cortina is known as la Perla delle Dolomiti, or The Pearl of the Dolomites due to its stunning beauty.
You May Like: Budget Motel Bradenton Fl
Scenic Drive Routes In The Dolomites
If you have access to a car, here are some seriously scenic mountain ranges to drive through. Both the Sella and Gardena Passes are full of twists and turns, they wind all the way up to the highest points before descending back down. The beauty of these passes is that there is no one destination or photo spot to aim for – the magic is in thejourney.
Family Hikes In Val Gardena Dolomites
Some of the best walks and hikes for families in the area are Kneipp paths, Col de Flam, the hikes in the Puez-Odle massive as well as the adventure path Col de Riada.
The valley is getting more and more welcoming to families with kids and has some handy initiatives such as the opportunity to rent baby equipment such as strollers and snow gear in the winter.
This is a very popular area with a wide selection of accommodation options for all types of visitors.
Family Hotels in Val Gardena:
- Passo Sella Dolomiti Mountain Resort, Selva di Val Gardena
Don’t Miss: Cheap Hotels In Winthrop Wa
Great Place To Stay For Hiking In The Dolomites
Great hotel, great staff and good food makes good prerequisites for hiking in te beautiful Dolomites. Three pools and a lot of saunas offer good possibilities of getting Your energy back after a long wolk in the Mountains.
- Trip type: Traveled with friends
- Rooms
36411,013
The hotell is very beautiful, charming and peaceful, and surrounded by wonderful nature. Good food, wonderful service.Highly recommended!We went mountain hiking directly from the hotel, but it was also within a short driving distance of several other hiking-routs.
- Trip type: Traveled as a couple
- Location
Wonderful hotel, friendly staff, excellent food, beautiful location. The hotel has a covered parking garage. We are an elderly couple and Sesto is a wonderful location for walks for all ages. After our walks, it was a treat to find free applepie waiting for us!
- Trip type: Traveled as a couple
- Value
Second time in this hotel. First time was in summer 2015. Now first time in winter. Rather early spring. Perfect place to stay. Restaurant, rooms, facilities, bar, service, parking space, all very good
- Trip type: Traveled as a couple
- Value
- Trip type: Traveled with family
- Sleep Quality
Day 4 Taking The Cable Car To Seceda
Drive: 1 1/2 hour from Lago Di Braies to Ortisei, 92 km.
On day 4 our road trip takes us to the small town Ortisei. Here we take the cable car up to the Seceda viewpoint, 2500 metres above sea level. It is simply brilliant that you can take a cable car to such a place instead of hiking although it feels a bit like cheating. The minute we step out of the car, we are met by the view. The pointy mountains rising vertically into the sky and the green valley below. Seceda offers what is probably the worlds most beautiful and comfortable mountain experience. Without any great effort, you can enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the Dolomites, along with a snack and a cold radler in one of the cosy restaurants on the mountainside.
Practical info: The cable car from Ortisei to Seceda usually runs from 8.30 to 17.30 from the start of June to mid-October. Check out the time table here. A return ticket costs 30 EUR. There are parking spaces at the cable car station and it costs 8 EUR to park.
In Ortisei we stayed at the apartment hotel Residence Elvis
Don’t Miss: Vacation Rentals Houghton Mi
Val Di Funes Best Place To Stay In The Dolomites For Romantic Getaways
Val di Funes valley is nestled between Val Gardena to the south and Alta Pusteria to the north. The region extends to the Odle mountain range that turns into a hue of pink and orange depending on the time of the day. If youre thinking about where to stay in the Dolomites for photography, look no further as the valley is beyond beautiful! It is one of the most scenic spots in northern Italy. The severe contrast against the jagged peaks of Odle and the rolling green pastures is striking.
In Val di Funes, you can visit the San Giovanni Church, the most instagrammable spot in the Dolomites. From the church, you can start hiking on the Adolf Munkel trail to reach the base of Odle peaks. Panoramaweg and Sunnseitenweg are two other short yet picturesque hiking trails. Once done with hiking and walking, you can visit the mineral museum in Teis village and the nearby Puez-Odle Nature Park.
Santa Maddalena is the main village in Val di Funes which is home to the famous Santa Maddalena Church and the Zannes trailhead. For lunch, stop by at one of the alpine pasture huts that serve locally produced farm-fresh food.
Pros and cons of staying in Val di Funes
PROS
- It is the best place to stay in the Dolomites for strikingly scenic views
- The region is slightly offbeat and hence incredibly peaceful, ideal for romantic getaways and relaxing holidays
CONS
- Less number of ski terrains
Best places to stay in Val di Funes
Where To Stay In The Mountain Towns Of Dolomites
We choose to stay in 2 different hotels. The reason for that was their proximity to the different hiking routes we wanted to take. That is the key option for your hotel choice, no matter if you want more or less luxury.
If you choose one location only, while you plan for multiple hiking routes, then it can be rather time consuming to travel to the different entrance areas. It is best to plan for some hiking routes while being in i.e. Cortina and then move to another town for more routes, then to another, etc.
In that way, either you use public transportation or your own means , it will be faster to reach and less time-consuming. Not to mention less exhausting, after all the hiking hours up in the mountains.
The two places we recommend are:
Don’t Miss: Staying In The Presence Of God