Exploring the Dolomites | Tre Cime di Lavaredo
- Aug 1, 2023
- 4 min read
Hiking the trails of Tre Cime di Lavaredo was, by far, one of my absolute favorite views of the Dolomites. With several trail options to choose from, you won't ever be disappointed by the panoramic views and jagged peaks that surround you.
While I recommend driving here, like everywhere in the Dolomites, you may need to hop on a quick bus shuttle from parking to get you closer to where you want to start your hike. From there, you can't go wrong with picking your route, but let's make choosing what option you take a little easier.
Let's Get You There
To see the views, you'll need to work for them. So, no, you can't drive your car all the way up to the top, but you might be able to get close. When putting your directions into your gps, always put the location of where you are parking. This gives you a far more accurate estimation on travel time in your car and doesn't leave you guessing where to go when you get there.
The closest place to park near Tre Cime is the parking lot located at Rifugio Auronzo. Like most places in the Dolomites, if you want to park the closest, you'll have to pay for it. Parking here will cost you 30 Euro for the day if there are spaces available. This lot fills up extremely quickly, so if you don't plan to get there before 8AM (at the latest), just forget about it. If you do park here, you will be at the starting point for several popular trails so there is no further transportation needed or available.
If you don't want to pay that premium or aren't able to get there early enough, the next best spot will either give you a longer walk or just add a short bus trip to your travels. This parking lot is located right by the bus stop and across from a camping site. If you need to go to the bathroom, use the facilities in the campsite as the bathrooms further up cost 1 Euro to use.
If you are someone who would want to start your hike from this point, this is probably not your blog. I recommend taking a quick ride on the bus to get you further up at the most convenient starting point. You'll take Bus 031 (pickup point name is Misurina Genzianella) which will take you to the next stop, Tre Cime Rifugio Auronzo. The bus comes every 30 minutes between 8AM and 5PM. The last pick up from Rifugio Auronzo is 5:25PM, so don't miss it.
The cost to park and take the shuttle can vary per season, but the parking lot kiosk does ask for prepayment. You'll want to leave that ticket in your car to prove you paid. I recommend buying a bus ticket right at the stop, so you can just select whatever time is closest to your arrival.
Trail Options
Once you are by Rifugio Auronzo, there are several different directions to choose from that will lead you down alternate trail options. Each route offers it's own beautiful views, but there are some viewpoints in particular that may really draw your attention.
Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint (personal favorite)
If you decide to do the entire Tre Cime loop, you will have the option to see many viewpoints and take detours to the ones above. If you don't have that much time to spend there, use the routes above and instead of completing the loop, retrace your steps back to the Rifugio.
What's Next
If you have enough time to hike several trails along Tre Cime, I highly recommend seeing as much as you can. But, near the area are so many other places to explore. If you haven't yet, check these places out:
There are several other attractions in the Dolomites, but this is what I recommend seeing that is located within a reasonable traveling distance. For additional recommendations, read my other blogs that talk about other must-sees.
Closing Tips
Be dressed to hike. Tre Cime is loaded with amazing viewpoints but you will have to work to get to them. Of course, it's worth it. But dress appropriately. Some great gear and other Dolomites essentials are linked here.
Get there early. Not only to avoid larger crowds, but because there is legitimately so many trail options and so much to see.
Pack water and snacks. There are tons of large flat areas that are great to absorb the surrounding views, but also to take a break. While the local refugio and restaurants near the parking lots offer food, you won't want to head all the way back hungry.
Don't let all of the information confuse you. I know reading about all of the parking options, shuttle times, and trails can be overwhelming. Don't let it be. I promise you, once you get to your parking lot everything is in eye's distance to see and understand.
Lastly, make sure you've read 'The Dolomites, Italy | What to know before you go' or this blog may not apply to your travel plans.
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