Spotlight on the Dolomites: Cortina d'Ampezzo, Trentino, and South Tyrol

Italy is one of the most popular European destinations for North Americans. However, while the majority of travelers focus on Southern Italy, the mountainous north is vastly overlooked. Continuing our spotlight series on Northern Italy, let’s take a closer look at the Dolomites regions where high-altitude adventure meets Italian sophistication and cultural history.

Cortina d'Ampezzo - Queen of the Dolomites

Known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” Cortina d’Ampezzo is a glamorous alpine resort at the northernmost point of the Veneto region of Northern Italy. The town sits in a bowl fringed by the jagged limestone peaks of the Dolomites, attracting winter sports enthusiasts, hikers, climbers, photographers, and travelers seeking a respite from the crowded hotspots. This year’s 2026 Winter Olympics, jointly hosted by Cortina and Milan, will see the town stage alpine skiing, curling, and bobsleigh events.

Besides world-class downhill skiing at Tofana, Faloria, and Cristallo, Cortina slows the pace with its cross-country and winter hiking trails. Summer recasts the area as a paradise for hikers, climbers, and photographers, with iconic routes including the Tre Cime di Lavaredo and cable car rides up to Tofana di Mezzo for panoramic views. Walks around Lake Misurina or along World War I mule tracks reward travelers with breathtaking views for minimal effort. 

Beyond the mountains, Cortina’s glitzy center hums with elegant boutiques, cafés, and historic hotels, reflecting its long history as a playground for European aristocracy and movie stars. Cultural highlights include the Mario Rimoldi Modern Art Museum and the Ethnographic Museum of the Ampezzo Valley. 

Trentino — Italian charm meets Alpine adventure 

Together with South Tyrol, Trentino forms the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region in northern Italy. Trentino refers to the Italian-speaking south and South Tyrol (Alto Adige) is the German-speaking north; both are part of the historical Tyrolean area. 

Trentino is a diverse and deeply scenic region stretching from the southern Dolomites to the shores of Lake Garda. Known for its apple orchards and vineyards, Trentino fuses outdoor adventure with history and relaxed Italian culture. The region’s capital, Trento, stuns with its frescoed Renaissance palaces and Buonconsiglio Castle. It carries strong ties to the Council of Trent, which marks a pivotal moment in European religious history.

The Brenta Dolomites are particularly striking, with summer hiking along via ferrata routes and winter skiing around Madonna di Campiglio. Val di Non and Val di Sole are ideal for cycling, mindful river walks, and tasting local produce. The atmosphere takes a turn for the Mediterranean at Lake Garda, with its citrus groves, sailing pursuits, and lakeside promenades. Sampling the regional sparkling wine, Trentodoc, is a must. 

South Tyrol — a touch of German heritage and culture

Once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, South Tyrol retains a strong German culture, visible in its architecture, cuisine, and village life — visiting this region is also an opportunity to dust off your German. The region’s landscapes are among the most spectacular in the Alps, dominated by the Dolomites, rolling alpine meadows, and vineyard-covered valleys.

Local life in South Tyrol orbits around outdoor activities, with hiking in Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest high-altitude meadow, and getting close to the dramatic peaks of Val Gardena and Val di Funes flying to the top of the list for travelers. In winter, the Dolomiti Superski area offers a vast system of interconnected slopes for all abilities. Scenic cable cars and well-maintained trails make the region accessible even for non-skiers.

Cultural experiences are equally rewarding. The city of Bolzano blends Italian cafés with Tyrolean-style markets and is home to Ötzi the Iceman, a preserved mummy from the Copper Age. Wine routes, medieval castles, and spa towns like Merano add further depth to a Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol itinerary. South Tyrol is ideal for travellers seeking refined alpine scenery, excellent food, and a unique cultural identity.

Contact Darby’s Destinations when you are ready to book your trip to Northern Italy.