Dolomites for lazy people
Important to know: "Rifugio" is an Italian word that translates to "shelter" or "refuge" in English. In the context of the Dolomites and hiking, it typically refers to a mountain hut or cabin that often has rooms available for booking and a restaurant where hikers can get food and coffee to refresh themselves during their hike. It serves as a place for hikers to rest, eat, and seek shelter in the mountains.
Now, let's get started :)
Day 1
One of the most easy walk with fairytale views is Cinque Torri. You can easily get there by car on parking lot next to Cable Car Cinque Torri. Price per person for cabel car to Cinque Torri round trip: 23-25 € (depending on the month in the high season)
If you happen to have some extra energy, you can trek uphill from Cinque Torri to Rifugio Averau and then to Rifugio Nuvolau for even more epic views. The entire hike takes 2-3 hours round trip, depending on your hiking speed and how long you want to revel in those spectacular vistas.
Day 2
Skip the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike for an even more spectacular view. This hike is a breeze, more like a leisurely walk, and takes only one-third of the time compared to Tre Cime. It's a must-see in the Dolomites, especially when the weather is good.
Take the bus directly from Cortina d'Ampezzo bus station to Rifugio Auronzo, where you can kick off your hike. It's a much simpler option compared to driving, especially considering the challenging and winding road to Rifugio Auronzo (recommended for experienced drivers only). Avoid the hassle of finding parking by Misurina Lake and waiting with a crowd for another bus, as we did.
Day 3
Walking through Val Padeon valley from Rifugio Son Forca was an enjoyable downhill stroll/hike. We received a great tip from our receptionist, a Cortina local who knows all the best spots. To start, take the cable car from Rio Gere to Rifugio Son Forca, and then head downhill towards Val Padeon, making your way to Rifugio Ospitale. A single uphill ticket costs €13 per person.
After reaching Rifugio Ospitale, you have the option to take a bus directly to Cortina or walk there at your own pace, depending on your energy level.
Day 4
To get a rest from walking up and down (even in our easy paths), there is amazing place to see. Lago di Landro. Parking lot is right next to the Lake and what is more, nearby is a specific view point on Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Without any hiking, just 7 mins walk from parking lot. Make sure you wont miss it.
Day 5
There is cable car, going from Cortina d´Ampezzo to one of the highest peaks in Eastern to Tofana di Mezzo. To get there you have to take 3 cable cars uphill. From the highest point you can do only ferrata, not typical hike so the best it to take cable car back.
Since we had plenty of clouds that day, we opted for just the first cable car to Col Druscié and enjoyed an easy downhill walk back to Cortina d'Ampezzo. The hike was a breeze, and we even made a delightful stop at Lake Ghedina. Highly recommended!
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