We recently found ourselves in the Dolomites during autumn for a last minute work trip, added on after almost a month of traveling around Sicily. Initially, we planned to extend our stay for just five days, but those five days quickly turned into almost three weeks. We completely fell in love with the Italian Alps and northern Italy’s unique culture, and it ended up being our favourite part of our Italy trip.
The Dolomites often remain in the shadow of Italy’s more famous destinations, such as Rome, Positano, or Tuscany. Outside of avid hikers and skiers, they don’t receive nearly as much attention as they deserve. But after experiencing their beauty firsthand, we can confidently say that autumn in the Dolomites is something truly special.
Where Are the Dolomites located?
The Dolomites are a mountain range located in the province of South Tyrol in northern Italy. They form part of the larger Alps and serve as a natural divider between Italy, Switzerland, and Austria. This strategic location has shaped the region’s history and culture, creating a unique blend of influences that make South Tyrol stand apart from the rest of Italy.
South Tyrolean Culture: A Blend of Italy and Austria
To be honest, we didn’t know much about the Dolomites before arriving, aside from the fact that they had mountains! But we quickly came to love this northern Italian province’s fascinating mix of Austrian and Italian cultures.
Having spent a month in Sicily, Italy’s southernmost region, before heading to its northernmost, the contrast was striking. Everything from the weather to the food, and even how organized and clean everything felt was different. Though I have to admit, I was a bit intimidated by their very meticulous recycling system! One of the biggest surprises was the water. I usually dislike tap water, but here it was perfect. It truly felt like stepping into another country, with a completely different language, customs, cuisine, and architecture.
South Tyrol is actually an autonomous province, meaning it governs itself and follows different regulations than the rest of Italy. This independence is reflected in daily life, from the bilingual road signs in German and Italian to the traditional foods and cultural influences that feel much more Austrian than Italian.
Why Visit the Dolomites in Autumn
Autumn is considered the off-season in the Dolomites, as the region’s peak seasons are summer (for hiking) and winter (for skiing). However, in our opinion, autumn is also a great time to visit. Here’s why:
- Fewer crowds – Popular hiking spots and viewpoints are much quieter.
- Cheaper accommodation – Rates drop significantly after the summer rush.
- Cooler temperatures – Ideal for hiking without the summer heat.
- Autumn foliage – The golden larches and vibrant colors make the landscapes even more spectacular.
What is the Best Time to Visit the Dolomites in Autumn
From our research, autumn colors start appearing gradually from late September to early October, especially at higher elevations. We arrived in mid-October and stayed until the first week of November. Based on our experience, mid-October was the peak for vibrant Autumn colors, with golden larches at their best.
If you’re planning to hike, keep in mind that many cable cars and mountain refugios close by early November, so it’s best to check their schedules in advance.
How is the Weather in the Dolomites in October? What to Pack
We found the weather in the Dolomites during Autumn (mid-to-late October) really pleasant. Perfect for exploring and hiking without the summer heat. The only time we felt chilly was after the sun had gone down. Daytime temperatures in mid-October can range from 13°C to 20°C (55°F to 68°F), with cooler temps at higher elevations. Evenings can drop to 3°C to 8°C (37°F to 46°F).
Most days were sunny and calm, with hardly any wind, making it even more comfortable for outdoor activities. The only exception was our first couple of days, when we had some rain. Most days were sunny and warm. By midday, we were often in just a t-shirt.
Unlike in Australia, we found that houses in the Dolomites are very well insulated and heated. We never felt cold at night, even when temperatures dropped outside.
If you’re not sure what to pack, layering is the way to go. We weren’t exactly prepared but picked up some hiking boots and Uniqlo Heattech layers, and it made all the difference. Honestly, you don’t need high-end hiking gear to enjoy the Dolomites—just make sure you have:
- A warm base layer – something like a lightweight thermal top for the colder mornings.
- A fleece or mid-layer – perfect for adding warmth without bulk.
- A windproof/waterproof jacket – the weather can change fast, especially in the mountains.
- Comfortable hiking shoes or boots – trails can be rocky, and proper footwear helps.
- Gloves and a beanie – optional but great for sunrise hikes or chilly evenings.
Don’t let the lack of “technical” gear stop you from visiting in autumn, you’ll be fine as long as you have layers and comfortable shoes!
Getting Around the Dolomites: Do you need a car?
In our opinion, the best (and arguably the only) way to explore the Dolomites is by car. Many of the most scenic spots are spread out across the mountains and valleys, requiring long drives between them.
That being said, South Tyrol has an excellent public transportation system, with bus routes connecting many of the main tourist areas. If you stay in a central location, it’s possible to rely on public transport but it will require good planning and flexibility.
We rented our car through Rentalcars.com, picking it up from Europcar in Trento.
Where to Stay in the Dolomites
During our two weeks in the Dolomites, we moved around to different bases to explore specific areas. We recommend splitting your stay between different locations to make the most of your visit. However, if you prefer, you can also base yourself in one place and take day trips from there but be prepare for some long drives.
What is the best town to base yourself to explore the Dolomites?
If you’re looking for the most convenient and central location, Ortisei is a great choice. It’s one of the largest towns in the Dolomites, with plenty of accommodation options, restaurants, and shopping. From here, you have easy access to some of the region’s best spots, including Alpe di Siusi, Seceda, and Val Gardena.
Our Stays in the Dolomites during Autumn
We’ve been getting a few messages asking where we stayed. We almost always book last minute when we travel, it doesn’t always work out, but we love the flexibility. That said, the Dolomites (along with maybe Japan) is one of the few places where every single stay was great. The standards in this part of Italy are incredibly high. Everywhere we stayed was pristine, super comfortable and well maintained, making our time in the Dolomites even better.
Farm Stays in the Dolomites
When we first arrived in the Dolomites, it was raining, which we were told was very unseasonal for this time of year. But honestly, it ended up being the perfect excuse to slow down and reset. This beautiful farm stay, with its incredible views and peaceful atmosphere, was exactly what we needed to recover from the prior weeks of travel.
Location: Castelrotto (Kastelruth), South Tyrol, Italy
This was my favourite stay in the Dolomites. With only four chalets, it feels super private, and the owner was so friendly. The views were incredible, and the sauna was the perfect way to end the day.
📍 Location: Feldthurns, South Tyrol, Italy
Modern & Stylish
A beautifully renovated 1970s building that now feels chic, colorful, and modern. The interiors have a fresh, contemporary design, and I even spotted pieces from HAY, one of my favourite scandi furniture brands. The apartments are spacious and surrounded by stunning mountain views. One of the best things about staying here is the trail right behind the apartments that leads up to the famous St. Magdalena church viewpoint, with the dramatic Geislergruppe Mountains as the backdrop.
Location: Villnöss (Funes), South Tyrol, Italy
Luxury & Wellness Stays
We absolutely loved our stay at Hotel de LEN in the heart of Cortina d’Ampezzo. The service was incredible. The hotel’s design is modern yet cozy, blending natural wood interiors with large windows that bring in the mountain views. One of the highlights was the intimate rooftop spa, which felt like a hidden sanctuary. It features various saunas, a steam room, an ice waterfall, and an outdoor hot tub overlooking the city.
Location: Cortina d’Ampezzo, Veneto, Italy
A luxury wellness retreat located in the Brenta Dolomites, near Madonna di Campiglio. While it’s not in the heart of the main Dolomite range, it offers a stunning mountain setting, world-class spa facilities, and a true escape into nature. We were lucky to stay here for a job, and it was an amazing experience, the thermal pools, saunas, and breathtaking views made it the perfect spot to relax.
Location: Pinzolo, Madonna di Campiglio
Other Bucket list stays
San Luis Lodges: A secluded alpine retreat set around a private lake, offering cozy wooden chalets and treehouses with fireplaces and outdoor hot tubs. Perfect for a peaceful mountain escape with top-tier spa and wellness facilities.
Location: Avelengo, near Merano
Forestis Dolomites: A secluded, high-altitude hideaway above Bressanone. Floor to ceiling windows, minimalist design, and a spa inspired by nature create a peaceful escape surrounded by mountain peaks.
Location: Palmschoss, near Bressanone
Hubertus Hotel: A cozy alpine stay with incredible views and easy access to hiking and skiing. Warm hospitality, great food, and a relaxing wellness area make it a great base for an active trip.
Location: Val Pusteria, South Tyrol
Are the Dolomites good for Non-Hikers
A question we get often is, are the places we visited easy for non hikers or beginners ? I’ll preface this by saying we are by no means experienced hikers. Our fitness isn’t the greatest, and before this trip, we didn’t even think we would enjoy hiking. But we found that most of these trails were easy to do as long as you take it slow and wear appropriate footwear. Many of the most stunning spots in the Dolomites are accessible with minimal effort, so don’t let the idea of hiking intimidate you! I’ll add a note on the ones that might need some more effort.
Best Places to Visit in the Dolomites in Autumn
With so many incredible locations to explore, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by trying to fit in all the ‘must visit’ spots. But honestly, you can’t go wrong, everywhere in the Dolomites is breathtaking. While the famous destinations are undoubtedly stunning, one of our favourite days was when we followed the recommendation of our local host and went on a walk we had never heard of before — the Chestnut Walk (from Feldthurns to Chuisa). It was such a fun and unexpected experience, reminding us that sometimes the best moments come from simply embracing the adventure and exploring without a strict plan.
Our Favourite Spots to visit during Autumn in the Dolomites
Ortisei
One of the larger towns in the Dolomites, Ortisei features a picturesque historic center and serves as a great base for exploring the area. It’s well known for its cable cars that provide easy access to Alpe di Siusi and Seceda, making it a perfect starting point for scenic hikes without requiring long treks.
The town has a charming pedestrian zone with traditional woodcarving shops, bakeries, and cozy cafés, giving it a warm atmosphere. However, we found that during the low season (late October to early December), the town felt much quieter, with some restaurants and shops closed between the summer and winter peak seasons.
That said, we met some friends here for dinner at Turonda for some pizza, and the restaurant was surprisingly lively.
Armentara Meadows
Fitness level: easy to moderate
Armentara Meadow is one of the most underrated yet stunning spots to experience autumn in the Dolomites. Located near Badia, this alpine meadow offers breathtaking views of golden larches and rolling landscapes, framed by the dramatic peaks of Sasso di Santa Croce.
There are a few ways to hike to the Armentara Meadows, depending on the season, how much time and effort you want to put in.
How to Get to the Armentara Meadows in Autumn (No Chairlifts)
During autumn, when the La Crusc chairlifts are not in operation, there are a couple of ways to reach the Armentara Meadows.
Option 1: Shorter Route from Parcheggio Furnacia
For a shorter and more direct route, start from Parcheggio Furnacia, located near La Val. From here, the trail is mostly uphill but only takes about 20 minutes to reach Ranch de André, a small mountain hut.
From Ranch de André, it’s another 10-15 minutes before you enter the Armentara Meadows.
If we were to do the hike again, we would probably choose this route for a quicker ascent.
- Trail Duration: About one hour round trip
Option 2: Hiking from Badia (Our Experience)
The traditional Badia route starts from San Linêrt (Badia) and follows a longer ascent through the Valacia valley, gradually leading to the Armentara Meadows. However, instead of starting from the town, we joined the trail at Parcheggio Sterrato near Valgiarei, skipping the lower portion of the hike.
- Trail Duration (full route from Badia): About 4 hours and 30 minutes round trip
How to Hike the Full Route in Summer When the Chairlift is Open
If visiting in summer, when the La Crusc chairlift is operational, you can do a longer loop hike that includes a scenic downhill walk through the Armentara Meadows.
Steps for the Summer Route:
- Park at Parcheggio Seggiovia La Crusc in Badia.
- Take the Sessellift La Crusc chairlift and La Crusc 2 gondola up to La Crusc station (2,045m).
- From the top, hike downhill through the Armentara Meadows, passing Ranch de André.
- Continue down the valley, eventually returning to Badia town.
- The total hiking time from La Crusc back to Badia is approximately 3 hours, mostly downhill
Santa Maddalena / Val di Funes – Picture perfect spot during Fall in the Dolomites
Fitness level: easy – moderate
An iconic Dolomites location, known for its dramatic valley with mountain backdrop and two photogenic churches, best visited at sunset. If you plan on visiting the churches we recommend late in the afternoon for the best light. First to the smaller Church of St John then heading to nearby St Magdalena Church for sunset. For the latter church give yourself enough time as you’ll need to park down in town in the public paid parking then walk up past the church to the view point behind it. The walk takes about 45 mins up hill on a paved road.
Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)
(Fitness Level: Easy to Moderate)
The largest alpine meadow in Europe, known for its iconic rolling fields with wooden huts. In winter, it transforms into a ski resort, but in summer and autumn, it’s a breathtaking landscape of grass and grazing cows. There are multiple ways to access Alpe di Siusi, depending on your preference:
- Easiest Option (Easy): Take the Ortisei cable car (Telecabina Ortisei) directly to the top station. From there, it’s an easy walk to explore the meadows and viewpoints.
- Alternative Route (Moderate): Take the cable car from Siusi (Seis) to Compatsch, then hike up to the famous panoramic spots. This route involves a bit more walking (around 1.5 hrs) but is still manageable at a relaxed pace.
Whichever route you choose, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking scenery and endless photo opportunities.
Castelrotto
During our time in the Dolomites last Autumn, we did a family-run farm stay in Castelrotto, and it ended up being one of our favourite spots. The area is incredibly peaceful, with rolling green hills, traditional alpine homes, and stunning views of the Dolomites.
Castelrotto itself is a beautiful little town with charming streets and a relaxed atmosphere. Don’t miss the picturesque St. Valentin Church, set against the dramatic peaks, or the scenic walks through the nearby meadows. The town is also close to Siusi (Seis), where you can take the Cabinovia Alpe di Siusi cable car up to Compatsch for incredible hikes through the famous Alpe di Siusi meadows.
Val de Gardena view point
We had planned to walk up to the meadows near Baita Seurasas Hütte looking back at Val Gardena for sunset but unfortunately we arrived too late to make it up before the sun went down. Luckily just near the Cristauta – Praplan carpark we found a beautiful grassy field with autumn colours and a direct view of the mountain range to catch the sunset on the peaks. Here is the spot in google maps
The Baita Seurasas Hut restaurant is open around June 8 – October 20 from 9.00am – 17.00pm but check their website for seasonal time changes.
Geisler Alm
(Fitness Level: Moderate to Challenging)
One of the most scenic hikes in the Dolomites, leading to the iconic Rifugio delle Odle with panoramic views. There are multiple access points with varying difficulty levels:
- Easier Route (Moderate): Start from the Zannes/Zans parking lot, where a well-marked trail leads to the hut in about 1.5 hours. The incline is gradual, making it an accessible option for most.
- More Challenging Route: Start from Ranui or Santa Maddalena, which takes about 2.5 to 3 hours and involves a steeper incline.
Both routes are rewarding, offering breathtaking views and the chance to stop at mountain huts along the way for food and drinks.
Chiusa (Klausen)
We stumbled upon Chiusa (Klausen) and thought it was one of the most picturesque towns in South Tyrol. Nestled along the Eisack River, it has a fairy-tale feel with its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and a dramatic hillside monastery overlooking the town.
We loved wandering through the historic streets, stopping at cozy cafés, and enjoying the peaceful riverside views. The walking trails around town are beautiful, especially the path leading up to Sabiona Monastery, which offers stunning views over the valley. Chiusa feels quiet and authentic definitely a town word seeing.
Chesnut walk (Feldthurns to Chiusa) – The perfect walk during Autumn in the Dolomites
(Fitness Level: Easy to Moderate)
One of our most unexpected favourites in the Dolomites in Autumn was the Chestnut Walk, a scenic section of the Keschtnweg (Chestnut Trail) that starts in Feldthurns (Velturno) and winds its way down to Chiusa (Klausen). We hadn’t heard of it before, but after our host in Kierhof chalets recommended it, we decided to give it a go, and it ended up being one of the most enjoyable days of our trip.
The well marked trail takes you through vineyards, apple orchards, and chestnut groves, with gentle inclines making it an easy yet rewarding walk. One of the highlights was passing the Säben Monastery (Monastero di Sabiona), perched on a hill above Chiusa, offering stunning views of the valley. Along the way, we stopped at local farm taverns to experience Törggelen, a South Tyrolean autumn tradition where you can taste fresh wine, roasted chestnuts, and delicious regional specialties.
Once we reached Chiusa, we took the bus back to Feldthurns, making it a super convenient and stress-free hike. This walk was such a great reminder that sometimes the best experiences come from asking the locals.
Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint
(Fitness Level: Moderate)
Before visiting, we had heard that this hike was quite difficult, but we found that walking just to the famous photo spot (pic 2 & 3) was actually very manageable. The only slightly challenging part was the initial incline, but after that, the path was easy to follow and well worth the effort. The short trail offers stunning views of the jagged Cadini di Misurina mountain range and the back of Tre Cime Lavaredo (pic 4) if you look back. Definitely worth the effort.
To access the trail, you’ll need to drive up a toll road just north of Lago Misurina. There is now a daily limit on the number of vehicles allowed to drive up, and just after Lago d’Antorno, you’ll reach a toll booth where you pay €30 per vehicle to continue up to the Rifugio Auronzo parking lot.
From the parking lot, the trail to the viewpoint follows Trail #117 and is well-defined. The only challenging part is the initial incline, but after that, it’s a relatively easy walk. Along the way, the trail splits—if you take the left path, it can feel quite exposed and narrow in parts, which might be uncomfortable for those with a fear of heights. However, there’s no need to go around the ridge, as the views from the main viewpoint at the top are just as breathtaking, if not better! (pic 1)
Lago di Braies: A Must-See in the Dolomites
(Fitness Level: Easy)
One of the most famous spots in the Dolomites in autumn, Lago di Braies is known for its glassy lake reflecting the golden larches and towering mountains. , Lago di Braies is known for its glassy lake reflecting the towering mountains. Even in the low season, Lago di Braies was surprisingly busy. We arrived early and still found a significant number of people already there, proving just how popular this place is year-round. If you are visiting the Dolomites in autumn, this is definitely a spot you don’t want to miss, as the golden autumn hues make the scenery even more beautfiful.
We parked in P3, which was a short walk from the lake and reasonably priced. However, in high season (July 10 – September 10), access to the Braies Valley is restricted between 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM unless you have a pre-booked parking reservation online. During this period, parking lots fill up quickly, and shuttle buses run from nearby towns to help manage the crowds. You can check the latest regulations and book parking on the official Lago di Braies website.
A highlight of our visit was renting a private wooden rowboat to explore the lake. We paid €50 for 45 minutes, which felt like a unique and peaceful way to experience Lago di Braies. Boat rentals are available throughout the season, but they can book out quickly in high season, so arriving early is key if you want to secure one without waiting. They also offer private sunrise bookings for an exclusive experience. For the latest details and private sunrise bookings, check the official boat rental website.
The short walking trail around Lago di Braies is an easy 3.5-kilometer loop, taking about an hour at a relaxed pace. It’s well-maintained, making it accessible to everyone and providing different perspectives of the lake’s stunning scenery. While it does get busy this is a spot that is definitely worth the visit.
Lago di Carezza
(Fitness Level: Easy)
A crystal-clear lake with perfect reflections of the mountains. By late October, the lake may start to ice over, so plan accordingly. We visited in the afternoon, which was a nice time to see the reflections, but I think visiting in the morning when the sun is a bit higher would be better to bring out the bright colors of the lake. The viewpoint is easily accessible with minimal walking required.
The walking trail around Lago di Carezza is an easy 2-kilometer loop, well-maintained and mostly flat, making it accessible for all fitness levels. It takes about 30–40 minutes at a relaxed pace.
Parking Information: When we visited in autumn, parking was not an issue, and there was plenty of spaces available. However, during peak summer months, the lake attracts a lot more visitors, and the parking lot can fill up quickly. If you’re visiting in high season, arriving early in the morning is recommended to secure a spot and enjoy the lake with fewer crowds. There is a large parking area directly across the street from the lake, with a short tunnel providing easy access to the viewpoint.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Language: South Tyrol is primarily German-speaking, with Italian as the second language. Most towns and landmarks have both German and Italian names, which can be confusing at first.
- Weather: Autumn temperatures can vary greatly, so pack layers. Personally the only times we felt cold was past sunset, but otherwise the weather was perfect.
- Closing Times: Many mountain facilities and lifts close in early November.
- Snacks: If you are going for longer hikes always take with you snacks.
Final thoughts: Dolomites in Autumn
If you’ve never considered visiting the Dolomites, we highly recommend adding them to your bucket list, especially in autumn. With fewer crowds, stunning landscapes, and an incredible blend of cultures, it’s an experience unlike any other in Italy.
If you are interested in visiting other parts of Italy check our Sicily blog
