Dolomiti complete starting from Cortina d’Ampezzo

Experience the Best of the Dolomites in One Day from Cortina d’Ampezzo

This full-day driving tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into the breathtaking landscapes of the eastern Dolomites, departing from the charming town of Cortina d’Ampezzo. For $533.07 per person, you enjoy a carefully curated itinerary that covers the region’s most iconic lakes, peaks, and mountain passes, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off included. The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, making it a perfect choice for those eager to see multiple highlights without the need to rent a car.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the small-group format, which ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace. Led by local English-speaking drivers, the tour emphasizes knowledgeable commentary and picturesque stops. While lunch and cable car rides are not included, travelers have the flexibility to choose a scenic cable car ride to the Terrace of the Dolomites for an additional view, and enjoy a delicious 45-minute lunch at a local restaurant.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with hotel pickup and driver/guide service
• Visits to Misurina, Braies, Landro, Dobbiaco, and other renowned lakes
• Stops at famous mountain passes: Gardena Pass, Passo Sella, and Passo Falzarego
• Scenic photo opportunities at Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Sella Mountain
• Optional cable car ride to the Terrace of the Dolomites (not included)
• Time-efficient way to explore multiple highlights in just one day

Starting from Cortina d’Ampezzo at 10:00 am

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Cortina d’Ampezzo, where a comfortable vehicle with free Wi-Fi, bottled water, and some with panoramic roofs awaits. The local driver, who is well-versed in the Dolomites, enriches the experience by sharing stories about the landscape and regional culture. To help you organize your day, a detailed map of the itinerary is provided at the start.

Visiting Lago di Misurina and Its Legend

The first stop is Lago di Misurina, one of the largest lakes in the Dolomites. Surrounded by Sorapiss, Cristallo, and Monte Piana, this spot offers stunning reflections of the mountains on its calm waters. The driver offers insights into the legend of King Sorapiss and his spoiled daughter Misurina, adding a cultural touch to this natural wonder. The visit lasts about 20 minutes, providing ample time for photographs and a quick walk.

Exploring Lago d’Antorno for a Perfect Photo

Next, the tour takes you to Lago d’Antorno, a smaller but equally picturesque lake near the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. This 5-minute stop is ideal for capturing a great picture of the surrounding peaks and the serene waters. Its proximity to the Tre Cime makes it a favorite for those wanting a less crowded perspective.

Viewing Tre Cime from Lago di Landro

The journey continues with a stop at Lago di Landro, which offers a different vantage point to admire the famous Tre Cime of Lavaredo. Although there are no traditional tour stops here, the view of the three peaks from this spot is notable. Nearby, the lake Landro provides another beautiful scene, with views of Cristallo mountain and Croda Rossa.

Visiting the Less Known but Charming Lago di Dobbiaco

The tour then visits Lago di Dobbiaco, a less popular but charming lake with spectacular water colors. The 10-minute stop allows for appreciating its tranquil atmosphere and taking photos of the scenic water reflections. Its quieter setting offers a peaceful moment amid the busy day of sightseeing.

The Iconic Lago di Braies and Optional Row Boat Ride

One of the highlight stops is Lago di Braies, renowned as one of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites. Visitors have around 20 minutes for a walk around the lake or to rent a row boat (additional cost). During December, the area is lively with Christmas markets, adding a festive touch. The lake’s crystal-clear waters and surrounding peaks make it a perfect spot for memorable photos.

Midday Lunch at Ostaria Posta in Piculin

After the lakes, the tour includes a 45-minute stop at Ostaria Posta in Piculin for a lunch break. This local restaurant offers a chance to enjoy regional cuisine and relax before continuing through the mountain passes. The small-group setting ensures a comfortable pace and personal attention.

Crossing the Gardena Pass and Passo Sella

The scenic driving route takes you over Passo Gardena, facing the Sella mountain, where you stop for photo opportunities. The 15-minute stop showcases the dramatic mountain scenery. Next, the Passo Sella provides another iconic view of the Sassolungo mountain range, with time allocated for additional pictures.

Cable Car Ride to the Terrace of the Dolomites (Optional)

For a spectacular panoramic view, travelers can opt for a cable car ride at Funivia Pass Pordoi. Although the ticket is not included, this 30-minute ride offers a breathtaking perspective of the Dolomites’ peaks and the Civetta and Pelmo mountains.

Viewing Civetta, Pelmo, and Lake Alleghe at Belvedere

The journey continues with a stop at the Belvedere Grill-Bar, located at the Belvedere terrace. Here, visitors admire views of the Civetta and Pelmo mountains, along with Lake Alleghe. This 10-minute stop provides another excellent photo opportunity and a chance to soak in the mountain scenery.

Passo Falzarego and the Lagazuoi Mountain

At Passo Falzarego, the tour features a 15-minute stop to view the Lagazuoi mountain and the 5 Tori. The scenic drive offers striking views, and visitors can take pictures of the dramatic mountain landscape. This spot is a favorite for capturing the rugged beauty of the Dolomites.

Ending the Day with the View from Pocol

The final stop occurs just above Cortina d’Ampezzo at Pocol, where the panoramic view encompasses the entire valley and mountain range. This 10-minute stop is perfect for a last round of photos before returning to the town.

Practical Details and Booking Considerations

The tour is a private activity, meaning only your group participates, and includes all taxes, fees, and national park charges. The driver/guide also provides local insights during the day. The tour operates in all weather conditions—participants should dress appropriately for mountain climates.

Cancellation is free if canceled at least 24 hours in advance; this allows flexibility in case of weather issues or sudden changes. Cable car rides and museum tickets are not included, providing optionality for travelers who want to customize their experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour appeals most to those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day exploring the most stunning sights of the Dolomites without the hassle of self-driving. It suits travelers who appreciate scenic drives, photo opportunities, and want local insights from experienced drivers. The small-group format makes it ideal for intimate and comfortable sightseeing.

The Sum Up: The Perfect Day in the Dolomites

This full-day private tour from Cortina d’Ampezzo offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural stories, and mountain panoramas. The careful selection of stops ensures visitors experience both famous landmarks like Lago di Braies and lesser-known gems such as Lago di Dobbiaco. The professional driver guides enhance the trip with local knowledge, making it educational as well as visually stunning.

While lunch and optional cable car rides cost extra, the overall value lies in the expert guiding, comfortable transportation, and careful itinerary. This tour provides an efficient way to see many highlights of the Dolomites in a single day, perfect for first-time visitors or those seeking a curated experience of the region’s spectacular scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are allowed but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly for mountain climates.

Can I include a cable car ride?
The cable car to the Terrace of the Dolomites is an additional option not included in the base price. It can be booked separately for about 30 minutes of scenic ride time.

What should I bring for the day?
Participants should wear appropriate mountain attire, including comfortable shoes and layered clothing. The vehicle provides free water and Wi-Fi, but bringing a camera is recommended.

How long are the stops at each location?
Most stops range from 5 to 20 minutes, allowing for photos and brief walks. The longer stop is at Lago di Braies for about 20 minutes and the lunch break at Piculin.

Is the tour customizable?
As a private experience, the itinerary may be adjusted based on your interests or weather conditions, with the driver providing local insights throughout.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done in advance, with the tour operating most days. The meeting point is typically your hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo, starting at 10:00 am.