Winter hiking in the Dolomites: The mountains are calling
Winter is always dull, cold and wet? Not in the Dolomites! In what is probably the most beautiful mountain range in Europe, winter becomes the season of fun, magical moments and new experiences. Hiking enthusiasts in particular have found the joy of conquering the fascinating mountain peaks of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in the snowy winter. Winter hiking in the Dolomites introduces you to the quiet, almost contemplative side of the Dolomites. In harmony with nature, away from the stress of everyday life, your well-deserved time-out begins here.
Winter hiking in the South Tyrolean Dolomites
In winter, the air in the mountains is particularly clear. The sun is shining, the snow is glistening - get outside! Hiking in the Dolomites is not only possible in summer. It is also a popular destination for winter hikes in the mountains during the cold season. Also in winter, many winter hiking trails await nature lovers and adventurers. You can go on half-day tours, full-day tours or multi-day tours. The network of routes is well-developed and offers hikers many rest stops along the way to rest, warm up and pause. On the way you discover breathtaking viewpoints of the Dolomites, cross snow-covered forests and immerse yourself in the absolute silence of nature. Winter hiking in the Dolomites is definitely an unforgettable experience.
Snowshoeing in the Dolomites
Snowshoeing differs from normal hiking in that you can go hiking without any problems even in deep snow thanks to the specially made snowshoes. The snowshoes, which are strapped over the normal hiking boots, distribute the weight of their wearer very evenly. That is why you do not sink so deeply into the snow. Snowshoeing is not a difficult winter sport; on the contrary, it makes hiking even easier because you hardly sink into the snow. This makes walking more pleasant. A clear advantage: with snowshoes you can also undertake tours that are less prepared. So if you are looking for a winter hike in untouched nature, you should try snowshoeing in the Dolomites.
Touring ski in the Dolomites
Touring skiing allows you to get to know the mountains in a whole new way. Uphill on your skis? Sounds crazy at first. But with touring skis it is possible. These are special skis that are shorter, softer and usually wider than a normal alpine ski. This makes it easier to ski downhill and uphill in deep snow or wet snow. Touring skis can be undertaken in many places in the wintry Dolomites. Guided tours are offered so that you can learn the technique or to be shown the most beautiful routes along the Dolomites by your guide. Conveniently, there are many local ski schools where you can rent equipment.
The most beautiful hiking areas in the Dolomites in winter
The Dolomites mountain group stretches across numerous beautiful spots. But some of them are particularly worth a visit:
Seiser Alm
The Dolomite region of Alpe di Siusi invites experienced winter hikers as well as beginners and children to its snowy landscape. Here you can experience the Dolomites in their white winter splendour on over 60 kilometres of groomed winter hiking trails. No matter whether on the classic path or with snowshoes.
A recommended hiking trail through the beautiful snow-covered landscape of the Alpe di Siusi is the Hans and Paula Steger hiking trail. It is dedicated to two mountain pioneers and leads hikers from the mountain station of the Alpe di Siusi cable car to the foot of the Sassolungo and Sassopiatto mountains. The largely untouched nature is particularly beautiful and has a particularly calming effect in winter. Along the way there are many information boards with exciting details about the nature and culture of the Alpe di Siusi. Stories like the one about King Laurin or legends about the Schlern witches give this winter hike in South Tyrol a mystical touch.
Drei Zinnen
One of the most famous hiking destinations are the Three Peaks. The majestic mountain peaks rising into the air in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site of the Dolomites are a spectacle you have to experience for yourself, especially in winter. The hiking routes to the impressive mountain formation have varying degrees of difficulty and can take between 5 and 8 hours. Many hikers spend their night's rest in the popular Dreizinnenhütte. From the windows of the hut you can continue to gaze at the Dolomites.
The starting point for a winter hike to the Three Peaks is often the Fischleintal valley in Sexten. The small, cosy valley itself also invites you to go on a short winter hike or snowshoe hike. You can also set off for the Three Peaks from the Innerfeldtal valley in San Candido. The advantage of both starting points are the huts you pass on the way. Here you can stop for a break on the groomed hiking trails and enjoy traditional dishes or, after all the exertion, end the day in a cosy atmosphere.
Val Gardena
Away from the slopes, you can also go on wonderful winter hiking tours in Val Gardena. This little spot in South Tyrol offers young and old alike numerous paths that can be walked with winter hiking boots or snowshoes. Here you can go on a discovery tour through the snow-covered landscape on your own or conquer the world of the Dolomites with local mountain guides. You can walk along partly frozen mountain streams, across white meadows and to excellent vantage points on the mountain panorama of the Dolomites.
Eggental
Great tours, whether in the classic sense, with snowshoes or touring skis, can be experienced in Val d'Ega. In the Carezza ski area, you can enjoy action-packed downhill runs as well as more peaceful winter hikes. The beauty of the Val d'Ega is that really everyone can go on a hike here. There are both easy routes on straight plains and more demanding hiking trails with ascents. A whole 15 kilometres of cleared winter hiking trails are at your disposal. In addition, you can go hiking with snowshoes on around 16 kilometres. Guided tours are also offered - and all this in the midst of dreamlike mountain scenery.
Hotels in the Dolomites: Active during the day, relaxing in the evening
Those who go on exciting hiking tours during the day must be able to really relax in the evening. There are numerous hotels that are specially designed for hiking and therefore offer their guests the best service. Cosy accommodation, fantastic food and always a good tip for excellent hiking routes are standard. Often, accompanied hiking tours can be booked directly through the hotel's own experts. The hiking professionals usually come from the village itself and know the Dolomites like the back of their hand. To ensure that mind and body are refreshed for a new day, many hotels in the Dolomites have their own spa. Whether it's a massage or a relaxing bath in the whirlpool with a view of the snow-covered mountain peaks - here you can gather new strength.
