The majestic Dolomites mountain range in northeastern Italy is a magical destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to be awestruck by sheer natural beauty. With jagged peaks, lush green valleys, enchanting forests, and charming mountain villages, the Dolomites offer endless opportunities for exploration and rejuvenation.
Choosing where to stay during your Dolomites escape can be an exciting yet overwhelming task. The good news is that you really canโt go wrongโeach town and village has its own unique charm and advantages. Use this guide to discover the best places to stay in the Dolomites.
Photo by Jan Valeฤka on Unsplash
Luxurious and Refined: Cortina dโAmpezzo
For an indulgent and refined mountain retreat, look no further than Cortina dโAmpezzo. Nestled within the Ampezzo Valley and surrounded by the Julian Alps, Cortina emanates sophistication. Known as โthe Queen of the Dolomites,โ this posh town blends stunning alpine vistas with upscale shopping, fine dining, and elegant accommodations.
Where to Stay: Hotel de la Poste – This 5-star hotel dating back to the 18th century oozes vintage Alpine charm. Enjoy mountain views while dining on gourmet cuisine at the renowned restaurant.
Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina d’Ampezzo, A Radisson Collection Hotel: A five-star hotel built in the Art Nouveau era, offering a luxurious stay with beautiful mountain views. It features a spa, three restaurants, and a peaceful hilltop location. The hotel is part of the Radisson Collection and has 170 rooms.
Cristallo, Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Cortina d’Ampezzo: A luxury hotel with a glamorous history, having hosted royalty and Hollywood elite. It offers a classic Italian style, a wellness center with views of Cinque Torri, and a free shuttle to the town center. The hotel has 74 bedrooms and is located on a hilltop, providing a peaceful getaway.
Rosapetra SPA Resort – Small Luxury Hotels of the World: Just minutes from the center of Cortina dโAmpezzo, this resort offers 29 delightful rooms and a superb spa with a pool, saunas, and a Turkish bath. It provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Italian Dolomites
Cultural Immersion: Val Gardena
The Ladin culture is vibrant within the idyllic Val Gardena valley, where charming mountain towns like Ortisei and Santa Cristina offer authentic insight into local traditions. Hand-carved wooden toys and handicrafts abound alongside welcoming hotels, heated outdoor pools with views, and excellent access to both hiking trails and world-class ski slopes.
Where to Stay: Hotel Serena in Selva Gardena – This 4-star hotel balances contemporary comfort with Ladin hospitality and easy access to ski lifts.
Family Wellness Hotel Hermitage in Ortisei – With family suites, countless activities for kids and adults alike, plus a luxurious spa for parents to unwind, this hotel has something for everyone.
Awe-Inspiring Vistas: Alpe di Siusi
Panoramic views simply donโt get better than those found on Alpe di Siusi, Europeโs largest high-altitude Alpine meadow. The grassy hills and rugged peaks create quintessential Dolomite vistas that seem almost surreal in their beauty. From quaint mountain huts to charming hotels, Alpe di Siusi is perfect for landscape photographers, hikers, or anyone seeking magnificent scenery.
Where to Stay:
Alpina Dolomites Gardens Hotel in Castelrotto – Floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to soak up the views without leaving your room. Then head out to explore the meadowโs countless scenic hiking paths.
Adler Mountain Lodge in San Vigilio di Marebbe – This eco-chic lodge balances sustainable design with 5-star comfort. Follow mountain streams through the surrounding forests or relax on your private balcony gazing at the Langkofel massif.
Outdoor Adventure Hub: Canazei
Base yourself in the small yet lively town of Canazei for easy access to some of the best hiking trails, rock climbing spots, and downhill ski runs the Dolomites have to offer. Located in the heart of Fassa Valley, Canazei brings mountain culture to life through pequatsch storytelling, hearty Tyrolean cuisine, and a vibrant apres-ski scene during the winter months.
Where to Stay: Bellevue Suite Hotel in Canazei – The luxurious rooms and friendly staff provide relaxing comfort in between your outdoor excursions.
Alpino Dolomites Hotel in Canazei – Not only are the hiking trails right outside your door, but this adults-only hotel also features a panoramic indoor pool and spa with breathtaking views.
Best of the Rest: Noteworthy Towns and Villages
While the destinations above shine bright, travelers would be remiss not to consider these other Dolomites gems:
San Cassiano – Sophisticated village in the Alta Badia region, with excellent dining and easy access to both snow sports and mountain biking trails
Corvara – Lively town thatโs part of the Alta Badia ski circuit, with a fun mix of activities from ziplining to wine tastings
Arabba – Quaint and quiet ski village tucked away in the valleys near the Marmolada glacier, best suited for escaping crowds
Best Places Stays in the Dolomites for Budget Travelers
Luckily for budget-focused travelers, experiencing the grandeur of the Dolomites is possible without breaking the bank. Even if your funds are limited, donโt let that stop you from booking a trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Budget-Friendly Towns in the Dolomites
Val di Fassa
- Overview: This area offers a genuine Alpine experience with a more affordable price tag than some of its more famous neighbors.
- What to expect: Comfortable guesthouses and B&Bs that provide a cozy, family-run feel.
Stays:
- Fiores Eco-Green Agriturismo e Azienda Agricola Biologica
- GH Hotel Monzoni
- GH Hotel Piaz
- Hotel Villa Mozart.ย
Brunico/Bruneck
- Overview: As a slightly larger town, Brunico offers a range of budget accommodations.
- What to expect: Competitive prices in hotels and apartments, especially outside the peak winter and summer seasons.
Stays:
Arabba
- Overview: Known for its quiet, laid-back vibe, Arabba is a great spot for those looking to escape the crowds.
- What to expect: Basic yet comfortable hotels and self-catering apartments.
Cheap Stays:
Types of Affordable Accommodations
Alpine Huts & Rifugios
- Best for: Adventurous travelers and hikers.
- Experience: Stay in a mountain hut for a unique and immersive mountain experience. They’re typically more basic but offer the essentials and incredible views.
Bed & Breakfasts
- Best for: Budget-conscious travelers looking for a personal touch.
- Experience: Enjoy cozy accommodations and a hearty breakfast before you start your day. B&Bs are often family-run and offer great local insights.
Vacation Rentals
- Best for: Families and groups.
- Experience: Renting an apartment or a small chalet can be cost-effective, especially for longer stays or larger groups.
Hostels
- Best for: Solo travelers and young tourists.
- Experience: Hostels in the Dolomites are not as common, but you can find some offering dormitory-style rooms at very affordable rates.
Additionally, visiting during shoulder seasons, booking early, choosing smaller villages over famous resort towns, and keeping your travel dates flexible can result in great deals. For budget Dolomites travelers focused more on soaking up alpine charm rather than luxury amenities, the options are plentiful.
Where will your Dolomites dream vacation take you? With majestic peaks, vibrant culture, world-class cuisine and adventure activities galore, youโll be captivated no matter where you lay your head at night.
Whether you seek sophisticated refinement, outdoor access, family fun or budget savings, the perfect Dolomites homebase awaits. Start planning your trip today and get ready to fall in love with these breathtaking Italian mountains.
Also check out Bologna in The Winter and Rome in December.
