Summer in the Dolomites: A Season of Unparalleled Beauty
As the warmth of summer falls over the Italian Alps and the winter snow melts away, the Dolomites transform into a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The Dolomites entices travelers with their dramatic peaks, lush valleys, and enchanting villages. Part of the Southern Limestone Alps, the Dolomites tower with rock walls, and jagged peaks, a stunning sight. Alpines lakes shine and meadows overflow with wildflowers in the warmer summer season.
Why visit the Dolomites in Summer?
As the summer sun bathes this UNESCO World Heritage Site in golden light, the Dolomites come alive with a vibrant tapestry of outdoor adventures. Lace up your hiking boots and set out with your guide to explore the extensive network of trails that crisscross the Dolomites. From leisurely strolls through alpine meadows to challenging ascents to high mountain passes, there's a route for every level of adventurer. The iconic Alta Via 1 and Alta Via 2 are long-distance trails that cover the length of the mountain range through peaks and valleys.
The Dolomites offer some of the best weather in all of the Alps and offer year round adventures. The Dolomites are protected by the Alps, which block the cold air and precipitation coming from northern Europe and Russia. The summer months have great warm days with full days of sunshine. The temperature averages between 60 to 80 degrees fahrenheit from mid-June to September, the warmer temperatures in the valley floor and cooler air as you move higher in elevation. The weather in the Dolomites in the summer makes for perfect hiking and outdoor activities!
The summer also brings great celebrations to the region as locals and tourists gather to enjoy the beautiful weather, the stunning views, and the lush valley. Bike races and running races are aplenty. Vintage car enthusiasts arrive for the Copa d’ro Dolomiti, a car race through the mountainside roads of the Dolomites in vintage cars. Many gather to dine al fresco and enjoy the sunshine and the great culture this area has to offer.
Highlights of Our Summer Tour in the Dolomites
Our Summer in the Dolomites experience brings you outside into the lush green valleys and snow capped mountains of the Dolomites. We built this itinerary with hiking in mind, for all levels. Local alpine guides will guide you through the famous routes and off the beaten path to see the best of the Dolomites. For thrill seekers, more advanced and technical climbing options are available as there are many thrilling routes with breathtaking views.
As you traverse lush forests and cross crystal-clear streams stop in the cozy mountain Rifugios, also known as mountain huts for an incredible alpine lunch to fuel your journey. These traditional alpine lodges are found throughout the mountains offering food, and often also lodging. Travelers from around the world who’ve come to hike these iconic hills meet over a meal at a community table. Rifugios are a staple in any hiker's Dolomite adventure!
Mountain biking and road cycling is also a great way to see the Dolomites. You can ride the chair lifts on the ski resorts to the top and mountain bike your way down through the lush valleys full of wildflowers! Looking for more of a workout? Cycle the winding roads that take you through the peaks and valleys of the area.
Visit a local town for delish wine or cheese made right here! Many festivals and events throughout the summer welcome locals and tourists to enjoy!
Accommodation and Hospitality
Our Summer in the Dolomites experience brings you to White Deer San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge. Originally built as a hunting lodge for Bishops in the 16th century, the owners Stefano and Georgia have thoughtfully renovated this exclusive-use lodge for the modern guest, while maintaining as much of the original lodge as possible. We recommend traveling via helicopter to the lodge to take in a birds eye view of the terrain, and arrive on the lodge’s private helipad overlooking the valleys. The team at the lodge will welcome you and guide you through a perfect summer getaway in this other-wordly alpine escape. You won’t have to think about a single thing as every single detail will be taken care of for you.
What we love about White Deer is the thoughtful ability to enable guests to experience the real Dolomites in an off the beaten path truly authentic way. From the exquisite beautifully prepared local meals to an incredible trip into Stefano’s special ‘goat shed’ which reveals the most incredible aperitif experience in a candlelit wine cellar where you’ll get to learn more about local wine, cheese and ham producers. Being surrounded by extraordinary artisans and a passionate storyteller will give you one more reason to fall in love with this region.
Planning Your Trip - Tips and Essentials
The best time to visit the Dolomites for a summer trip is June - September. As the skii season comes to a close in the spring and the snow melts away, the mountains are green jewels and the sun rises higher to welcome warmer temperatures, longer days, and cool nights. While ski season is the busiest for tourism in this area, more and more hikers from around the world are visiting this stunning region, but the nature of the smaller towns and villages makes for a comfortable trip in the summer.
When dressing for the summer in the Dolomites prepare with many layers of clothing. Cooler mornings and evenings require lighter sweaters and jackets, but as the heat of the day increases you’ll want to be in lighter cotton layers. Hiking requires the proper sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, and rain gear.
Why Travel with Few & Far?
We love matching our guests with extraordinary operators who can’t wait to share their little bit of heaven with you. Stefano and Georgia and their team are ready to welcome you to the Dolomites!
Visiting the Dolomites in the summer is also a great trip for those who want to enjoy nature and keep their carbon footprint low. Staying at White Deer and it’s thoughtful and sustainable practices is the first step. Enjoying the hiking and activities the area offers is another. Local operators focus on protecting and preserving the natural beauty of mountains. Visiting this area and exploring nature is a great way to travel sustainably.
Conclusion
The Dolomites in the summer offer warm sunny days, and mild nights with skis full of stars. You’ll sure to be wow-ed by the stunning views from the hiking trails and make new friends from all over the world at the Rifugios. Enjoy the local fare and relax at White Deers cozy estate. The summer is practically here, and the Dolomites are calling. We hope to take you along a journey of unparalleled beauty!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How hot are the Dolomites in the summer?
The temperature averages between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit from mid-June to September, the warmer temperatures in the valley floor and cooler air as you move higher in elevation.
2. How do you dress for Dolomites in the summer?
When dressing for the summer in the Dolomites prepare with many layers of clothing. Cooler mornings and evenings require lighter sweaters and jackets, but as the heat of the day increases you’ll want to be in lighter cotton layers. Hiking requires the proper sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, and rain gear.
3. Are Dolomites better in summer or winter?
The summer in the Dolomites is great for those who want to enjoy the warmer weather by hiking, mountain biking, and perhaps rafting. The winter is best for skiers of any level and those looking for a cozy escape.
4. Is hiking the Dolomites difficult?
Hiking in the Dolomites is breathtaking, and like many other alpine activity it’s best to be prepared. The elevation on most hikes ranges from 5,000 - 9,000 feet which can make exercise more difficult. Hikers of every level will find a trail for them, but the Dolomites are best for moderate to experienced hikers.
5. Are the Dolomites suitable for children?
The Dolomites is a great vacation destination for families with children! Hiking, mountain biking, and rafting can be a fun activity for the whole family and many operators offer services specifically for younger children. White Deer Lodge is a perfect place for families as you have the entire lodge to yourself with multiple rooms, bedrooms, and a fun bunk room for the kiddos!