Summer in the Dolomites – tips and information for your holiday
Summer in the Dolomites means green alpine meadows, dramatic rock formations and scenic trails through one of Europe’s most impressive mountain landscapes. It is no surprise that the Dolomites are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and among the most remarkable natural regions in Europe.
Whether hiking, via ferratas, mountain biking or photography, summer offers many ways to experience the Dolomites actively and discover their unique landscapes up close.
Places to visit and highlights in the Dolomites
Three Peaks
The Three Peaks are among the best-known landmarks of the Dolomites and one of the most popular excursion destinations in South Tyrol. Their striking rock formations define the landscape of this mountain region.
Ideal for travellers who want to experience impressive mountain scenery and panoramic hiking trails.
Key information:
- Location: Alta Pusteria
- Special feature: UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Highlights: Three Peaks circular trail and panoramic viewpoints
- Activities: hiking, photography spots and mountain huts
- Best time: June to October
- How to get there: toll road or shuttle bus
Find more tours in our guide to the best hikes in South Tyrol.
Seceda
Seceda is one of the most famous viewpoints in the Dolomites. The dramatic ridgeline and wide panoramic views make this area especially popular.
Travellers looking for breathtaking scenery and iconic photo spots will find one of the Dolomites’ most impressive viewpoints here.
Key information:
- Location: Val Gardena
- Special feature: dramatic ridgeline and panoramic Dolomite views
- Activities: hiking, photography and panoramic trails
- Hiking duration: depending on the route, from short walks to several hours
- Viewpoint: views of the Odle peaks and the Dolomites
- Cable car: accessible via the Seceda cable car from Ortisei
- Best time: summer and autumn
Sella Group
The Sella Group is one of the most impressive mountain formations in the Dolomites and stretches across several valleys. Cyclists especially know the famous Sellaronda route, while climbers are drawn to the Sella Towers.
The Sella Group is ideal for travellers who want to combine mountain tours with scenic panoramic routes.
Key information:
- Location: Val Gardena / Val Badia / Val di Fassa
- Special feature: striking mountain massif
- Activities: hiking and mountain tours
- Highlights: Sella Pass and panoramic trails
- Best time: June to October
Rosengarten
The Rosengarten group is especially famous for the phenomenon known as “Enrosadira”, when the rocks glow in intense shades of red and pink during sunset.
Closely connected to this natural spectacle is the legend of King Laurin, who is said to have owned a rose garden high in the mountains. According to the legend, he placed a curse on it so that nobody could see it by day or night.
The Rosengarten is an excellent choice for travellers who enjoy peaceful hikes and special light conditions in the mountains.
Key information:
- Location: western Dolomites around Tires, Nova Levante and Carezza
- Special feature: Enrosadira and the legend of King Laurin
- Activities: hiking, via ferratas, viewpoints and mountain huts
- Difficulty: from easy to challenging depending on the route
- Cable car: lifts operate from Carezza, including the König Laurin lift towards the Kölner Hut
- Best time: summer to early autumn
Prags Valley
Prags Valley is one of the best-known natural areas in the Dolomites and is especially famous for Lake Braies. Alongside the impressive mountain scenery, traditional farmhouses, small chapels and alpine landscapes shape the character of the valley.
Prags Valley is particularly suitable for visitors who want to combine nature, walks and iconic photography spots.
Key information:
- Location: Prags Valley in Alta Pusteria
- Highlights: Lake Braies, mountain scenery and traditional farms
- Best time: early morning or late afternoon, especially during summer
- Activities: walks, photography and hiking
- How to get there: during high season, traffic restrictions may apply around Lake Braies. Public transport or early arrival is recommended
Activities in the Dolomites during summer
Many hikes can be combined with a stop at traditional mountain huts, where regional cuisine and mountain panoramas come together.
During summer, the Dolomites offer many opportunities for active days in the mountains:
- hiking
- mountain tours
- via ferratas
- mountain bike tours
- photography
- hut-to-hut hikes
This makes it easy to plan a holiday that ranges from relaxing to highly active.
Tips for a holiday in the Dolomites
To enjoy a relaxed stay in the Dolomites, it is worth keeping a few things in mind:
- start early, especially in popular areas
- check weather conditions
- bring enough water
- wear sturdy shoes
- pay attention to traffic regulations in popular valleys
After a hike, South Tyrol’s swimming lakes are also perfect for cooling off.
Frequently asked questions about the Dolomites in summer
1. When is the best time to visit the Dolomites in summer?
The best time is usually between June and October.
2. What is the best way to reach the Dolomites?
Travellers arriving by train can travel to Bressanone or Bolzano first. From there, regional trains and buses connect many holiday destinations. By car, the Dolomites are easily accessible from the Brenner motorway (A22).
3. Are the Dolomites suitable for families?
Yes, there are easy hiking trails, themed paths, adventure parks and natural swimming lakes suitable for families.
4. Which highlights should you visit?
The best-known highlights include the Three Peaks, Seceda, the Rosengarten and Prags Valley.
5. Do you need hiking equipment in the Dolomites?
No, for easy trails sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are usually enough. More demanding tours require suitable hiking equipment.
Conclusion – summer in the Dolomites
Summer in the Dolomites combines spectacular mountain landscapes, nature experiences and many opportunities for active holidays.
The mix of panoramic trails, famous viewpoints and peaceful natural areas makes the Dolomites one of the most popular travel destinations in South Tyrol.
Find more inspiration in our guide to summer in South Tyrol.
Editorial team of sudtirol.com
The content is created by the editorial team of sudtirol.com with a focus on holidays, leisure activities and regional topics in South Tyrol.
Last updated: May 2026