From Venice The Best of the Dolomites Mountains Day Trip
Description
Begin in Cortina d'Ampezzo, often called the “Queen of the Dolomites.” This elegant alpine resort blends Ladin heritage with refined mountain culture and is set to host events for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Surrounded by dramatic peaks, its historic streets and sweeping views embody classic alpine style. Continue to Lake Misurina, the largest natural lake in the Cadore area. Known for its mirror like waters, it reflects the surrounding mountains, including the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo, making it one of the most photographed landscapes in the region. The journey then reaches Lago di Auronzo, a striking alpine reservoir near Auronzo di Cadore. Its turquoise waters and forested slopes create a powerful contrast with the rugged Dolomite peaks, capturing the wild beauty of this UNESCO listed mountain landscape.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Cortina d'Ampezzo is a renowned alpine resort located in the heart of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape. Known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” it combines dramatic mountain scenery with an elegant village atmosphere. The town is famous for world-class skiing in winter and exceptional hiking and climbing in summer. Its pedestrian center along Corso Italia is lined with boutiques, cafés, and historic hotels, reflecting a long tradition of alpine tourism and Italian style. Cortina has also hosted major international events, including the 1956 Winter Olympics and will co-host the 2026 Winter Olympics. The surrounding peaks—such as Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Tofane—make it one of the most visually striking destinations in the Alps.
Lake Misurina (Lago di Misurina) is the largest natural lake in the Cadore area of the Dolomites, located about 15 km from Cortina d'Ampezzo. Surrounded by dramatic alpine peaks, the lake is known for its exceptionally clear water and mirror-like reflections of the mountains. At 1,754 meters above sea level, Lake Misurina is a peaceful base for exploring iconic Dolomite landmarks such as Tre Cime di Lavaredo. A scenic path circles the lake, making it an accessible spot for walking, photography, and quiet alpine views throughout the year. The area is also associated with the historic Istituto Pio XII, built here because the local microclimate was believed to benefit respiratory health. Today, the lake remains one of the most picturesque and tranquil locations in the Dolomites.
Lago di Auronzo is a striking alpine lake in the Dolomites, located near the village of Auronzo di Cadore. Created by a dam on the Ansiei River, the lake is known for its vivid turquoise color and dramatic mountain backdrop. It also serves as one of the main access points to the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo area.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(4)
The tour guide never showed up at the meeting point for the tour. I contacted the tour activity guide and they still have not responded. I contacted support and they have yet to give me a refund. I love Viator but if they don’t refund me I will probably not book with them again. DO NOT BOOK THIS TOUR. THEY NEVER SHOWED UP AT THE MEETING POINT.
Alberto was good. Gave facts about important geological structures in the Dolomites and answered questions posed to him. Bus ride a little long or maybe 5 stars. Was beautiful scenery. Did have a very rude couple in the back that would never shut up and made it hard to hear Alberto. If you can’t respect others around you on a group trip you should not go one one. Everyone else pays the same money but have some common courtesy people.
Could not travel as the travel agent overbooked us. Also never bothered to inform us about the overbooking that was done due to a systemic issue as their end. We were informed only once we arrived at the destination. Had they informed us in advance we would not have gotten early to be ready at 7.40 am in order to reach the meeting point only to be told that they don’t have seats for us.Very unprofessional.
Wonderful experience. Our drive to the Dolomites was broken up with a stop for breakfast at a cafe that was clean and well stocked. Toilets were also very clean. It was raining when we got to the mountains but our guide Valentina was superb in arranging our lunch and a further stop in Cortina to see the Olympic rings from the Winter Olympics. This is an experience that shouldn’t be missed. Our guide was superb and our driver gave us a smooth ride.
