Dolomites Highlights Your guide to the perfect South Tyrol road trip

Dolomites Highlights:
Your guide to the perfect South Tyrol road trip

Are you ready for the heart of the Alps? The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage site for a reason – expect rugged peaks, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and landscapes almost too beautiful to be true. Whether you are a passionate hiker, a hobby photographer chasing the perfect shot, or simply a nature lover: the region around the Puster Valley (Hochpustertal) and the Sesto Dolomites will leave you speechless.

In this post, we explore the world-famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks) together, discover hidden natural wonders like the Earth Pyramids of Percha, and enjoy the serenity of Lake Dobbiaco (Toblacher See). To make your adventure perfect, we’ve included our best tips for every location, including parking options, the ideal time to visit, and how much time you should plan for each stop.
Pack your hiking boots – here are the 8 places in South Tyrol you absolutely cannot miss this summer!

Key Travel Facts:

  • Travel Period: June
  • Travel Style: Independent road trip with a rental car, staying in accommodations booked via Airbnb and Booking.com.
  • Weather: We experienced spring-like temperatures ranging from 10–18°C (50–64°F).
Our route at a glance:

Three Peaks / Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Lake Sorapis / Lago di Sorapis

Lake Braies / Lago di Braies

Lake Misurina / Lago di misurina

Lake Toblach / Lago di dobbiaco

Fischleintal valley

Earth pyramids of Percha

Plätzwiese

Tre Cime di Lavaredo: The Majestic Landmark of the Dolomites

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks) are far more than just a photo opportunity – they are the undisputed symbol of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites. Standing before the massive north faces, you truly feel the magical pull of these striking rock formations.

  • What to see: The classic loop trail takes you from the Rifugio Auronzo via the Paternsattel to the Drei Zinnen Hut (Rifugio Locatelli). From there, you get the famous postcard view of the “Cima Grande,” “Cima Ovest,” and “Cima Piccola.”
  • Duration: Plan about 4 to 6 hours for the hike to allow enough time for photo stops and a break at one of the mountain huts.
  • Insider Tip: Arrive in the early morning to witness the “Alpenglow” and beat the crowds. The toll road to Rifugio Auronzo is often congested after 8:00 AM – arriving before 7:00 AM helps you avoid the traffic and secure a spot. You must reserve your parking ticket in advance via Auronzo.info. It is no longer possible to purchase tickets on-site.
  • Photography Secret: The caves at Mount Paterno (Paternkofel) provide the perfect natural frame for a spectacular shot of the Three Peaks.
View of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo peaks framed by a mountain cave in the Dolomites.
Small alpine chapel in front of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo peaks in the Sesto Dolomites.
A couple standing on a trail in front of the red-roofed Locatelli Hut with the Paternkofel mountain in the background.
Panoramic view of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo and surrounding hiking trails in the Italian Dolomites.
High-angle view of winding hiking trails in a deep valley within the Dolomites.
Close-up view of the steep north faces of Tre Cime di Lavaredo with snow patches at the base.
Panoramic view of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo and surrounding hiking trails in the Italian Dolomites.
High angle view of the two turquoise Boeden Lakes (Bödenseen) in the Sexten Dolomites.
A couple sitting inside a mountain cave looking out at the Tre Cime di Lavaredo peaks.
Traditional South Tyrolean meal with dumplings, sausages, and bread on a wooden table overlooking the mountains.
A narrow hiking path winding through scree slopes below the Paternkofel mountain in the Dolomites.

The Most Beautiful Lakes in the Dolomites: Lago di Sorapis, Lago di Braies, Lake Misurina, and Lake Dobbiaco

Lake Sorapis (Lago di Sorapis)

With its milky turquoise water, Lago di Sorapis looks like it’s from another planet. This natural phenomenon is caused by fine glacial dust (silt), making it one of the most sought-after hiking destinations near Cortina d’Ampezzo.

  • The Experience: The trail (Hiking Trail 215) is adventurous and offers spectacular views. However, it requires sure-footedness, as some sections are narrow and secured with steel cables.
  • Duration: Since the ascent takes about 2 to 3 hours, you should plan a total of 6 to 7 hours for the entire trip.
  • Insider Tip: Visit the lake in June or July. By late summer, the water level often drops significantly, and the lake loses some of its vibrant color.
A couple standing on a rock in front of a bright turquoise mountain lake and towering cliffs in the Dolomites.
Wide-angle shot of Lake Sorapis surrounded by steep limestone cliffs of the Dolomites.
The turquoise Lake Sorapis in the Dolomites with the iconic Dito di Dio mountain peak in the background.

Lake Braies (Lago di Braies)

No lake in South Tyrol is as famous as Lago di Braies. Nestled among dark forests and towered over by the massive Seekofel mountain, it offers a backdrop that enchants thousands of visitors every year.

  • Highlights: If you enjoy being active, you can hike around the lake in about 1–1.5 hours on a picturesque circular trail. Taking a ride in the traditional wooden boats is also an option; however, we decided against it as the lake was very crowded at the time of our visit – wait times of up to 2 hours for a boat are not uncommon.
  • Duration: Plan for about 3 hours to include photography, boating, and the circular hike.
  • Insider Tip: To manage overtourism, access to the valley is only possible with an online reservation during the summer months (July to September). Make sure to book your ticket weeks in advance or stay at the local hotel directly at the lake. You can find the link for parking reservations here.
Ein Paar steht am Ufer des Pragser Wildsees, im Hintergrund zahlreiche Ruderboote und die Seekofel-Felswand.
Türkisblauer Pragser Wildsee mit Holzbooten und dem Bergmassiv des Seekofel bei Sonnenschein.
Blick auf das klare, dunkelblaue Wasser des Pragser Wildsees umrahmt von grünen Nadelwäldern.
Zahlreiche kleine Steinmännchen auf einem weißen Kiesstrand am Ufer eines klaren Bergsees in den Alpen, Dolomiten.
Ein schmaler Wanderweg führt direkt am Ufer des Pragser Wildsees entlang mit Blick auf das türkise Wasser.

Lake Misurina (Lago di Misurina)

Lake Misurina impresses with its elegant atmosphere and its healing air, which is highly recommended for people with respiratory issues. The majestic Grand Hotel on the lakeshore gives the place a touch of nostalgia.

  • Activities: The lake is perfect for a relaxed stroll (approx. 2 km, flat terrain). On calm days, the reflection of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo in the water is one of the most popular photo motifs in the region. You can also rent a rowing boat or enjoy an ice cream along the shore.
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours for a walk and a break at the shore.
  • Insider Tip: Lake Misurina is the ideal starting point for the drive up to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. We recommend combining both destinations in one day.
Der Misurinasee in den Dolomiten mit Blick auf die Drei Zinnen im Hintergrund und mit gelben Blumen und grünem Gras im Vordergrund.
Blick über den Misurinasee auf das historische Grand Hotel vor den wolkenverhangenen Gipfeln der Dolomiten.

Lake Dobbiaco (Lago di Dobbiaco)

Lake Dobbiaco is located right on the border between the Tre Cime and Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Parks. It is the quieter, yet equally beautiful alternative to its more famous neighbors.

  • What to see: A nature trail leads around the lake, providing information about the local flora and fauna. The viewing platforms offer great opportunities for birdwatching.
  • Duration: Plan for about 2 hours. In the summer, you can also rent a pedal boat and enjoy the silence on the water.
  • Insider Tip: A wonderful contrast to Lago di Braies – Lake Dobbiaco offers crystal-clear water for swimming without the crowds. We treated ourselves to a classic apple strudel here while enjoying the view of the lake and the mountain panorama behind it. The lake is also a highlight in winter, when it freezes over completely and invites you to go ice skating.
Ein Paar steht am Ufer vor dem grünen Toblacher See und hohen Felswänden in den Dolomiten.
Ein kleiner künstlicher Wasserfall am Abfluss des Toblacher Sees mit Bergen im Hintergrund.
Ein Teller mit Apfelstrudel und Vanilleeis sowie ein Eiskaffee auf einem Holztisch vor einer Bergkulisse.
Der ruhige Toblacher See spiegelt die umliegenden bewaldeten Berge unter einem weiten Himmel wider.
Ein gelbes, historisches Gebäude am Ufer des Toblacher Sees, das sich perfekt im glatten Wasser spiegelt.

Hidden Gems: Val Fiscalina, Earth Pyramids of Percha and Prato Piazza

Val Fiscalina (Fischleintal): The Gateway to the Sesto Sundial

Val Fiscalina in Sesto (Sexten) is often described as the most beautiful valley in the world. It serves as the gateway to the heart of the Sesto Dolomites and offers a direct view of the “Sesto Sundial” – a gigantic formation of mountain peaks.

  • Activities: The path from the parking lot to the Rifugio Fondovalle is flat and leads through blooming larch meadows. It is ideal for families and leisure hikers. You will also pass the Fischleinbach stream; however, it was already dried up in June, as it only reaches its full level during the snowmelt.
  • Duration: A stroll takes about 2 to 3 hours. If you choose to hike further up to the Three Peaks Hut (Drei-Zinnen-Hütte), you will need a full day.
  • Insider Tip: In June, the valley was unfortunately less spectacular than expected. A visit is likely more worthwhile in autumn, when the larches turn a vibrant golden yellow.
Weite Wiesen und dichte Wälder im Fischleintal bei Sexten mit Blick auf die Sextner Sonnenuhr.
Ein breiter Schotterweg führt durch ein grünes Tal (Fischleintal) auf hohe, wolkenverhangene Berge in den Alpen zu.

Earth Pyramids of Percha

The Earth Pyramids of Percha are a fascinating example of the power of erosion. Over centuries, rain and melting snow have shaped these bizarre clay formations topped with their iconic “stone hats.”

  • Activities: A well-marked hiking trail leads you to various viewpoints where you can admire these delicate pillars from different angles.
  • Duration: The hike, including time for sightseeing and photos, takes about 2 hours.
  • Insider Tip: Visit the pyramids in the late afternoon. When the sun is low, the clay soil glows in warm yellow and reddish tones, making it the perfect time for photography.
Die bizarren Erdpyramiden von Percha im Pustertal, geformt durch Erosion.
Nahaufnahme einer Erdpyramide in Percha mit einem großen Deckstein (Stein-Pilz).

Prato Piazza (Plätzwiese High meadow plateau): Freedom at 2,000 Meters

Prato Piazza is a high-alpine plateau that will take your breath away. Up here, you can feel the vastness of the Alps and enjoy an incomparable tranquility far away from the crowds.

  • Highlights: This spot offers a “front-row seat” view of the Hohe Gaisl (Croda Rossa) and Monte Cristallo. The area is a paradise for easy hikes to alpine huts, such as the Dürrensteinhütte (Rifugio Vallandro).
  • Duration: Half a day to a full day, depending on whether you just want to enjoy the view or hike up to the summit of Dürrenstein.
  • Insider Tip: Access is also regulated here during the summer months. Use the shuttle bus from Schmieden or Brückele to avoid the stress of finding a parking spot. We visited Prato Piazza spontaneously on a June afternoon; at that time, driving up in our own car was no problem, and finding a parking space was easy.
Traditionelle hölzerne Almhütten auf einer saftig grünen Bergwiese in den Dolomiten.
Nahaufnahme von bunten Wildblumen auf einer Almwiese in den Dolomiten.
Nahaufnahme von rosa und pinken Lupinen auf einer blühenden Bergwiese in Südtirol.
Ein schmaler Pfad schlängelt sich durch blühende Almwiesen in den Hochalpen.
Kräftig lila Lupinen blühen auf einer Almwiese in den Alpen.

Our Travel Summary for the Dolomites, Italy

The Dolomites left a lasting impression on us with their immense natural beauty. Iconic spots like Lago di Braies and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo absolutely live up to the hype – but timing is everything. We visited these locations early in the morning to enjoy the serenity.

From 9:00 AM onwards, they unfortunately become crowded and noisy very quickly.

Val Fiscalina (Fischleintal) was a bit of a disappointment for us in June. While photos often show lush, vibrant landscapes, the river was almost completely dried up during our visit, which took away much of the valley’s charm. It goes to show once again that nature is unpredictable – especially in early summer, when the snowmelt might already be over while the rain has yet to arrive.

Our top advice for you:
Keep your plans flexible. If a location (like Val Fiscalina) isn’t at its best, there is usually a fantastic alternative nearby, such as Prato Piazza. The Dolomites are vast enough that you will always find a place that enchants you at exactly the right moment.

Scroll to Top