Spending summer days in the Dolomites
There are few places in Europe that manage to feel this dramatic and this peaceful at the same time. With their dramatic mountain peaks, lush green valleys, winding roads and this alpine-meets-Italian soul, the Dolomites are the kind of place that will impress you over and over again. Whether you're into outdoor activities like hiking or mountain biking or simply soaking up the fresh mountain air with a spritz in your hand, this UNESCO World Heritage region delivers quite a summer magic.
Dolomites in a nutshell
Best time to visit – June to October for hiking, alpine views and sunny weather, for mild to warm temperatures and a calmer atmosphere try to avoid the peak season in July and August.
Where to stay – Cyprianerhof Dolomit Resort, San Luis Retreat Hotel & Lodges
Best things to see & do – Hike in the Carezza region, visit Lago di Braies and Lago die Carezza, experience the sunrise at alpe di siusi, relax in a spa with mountain views and explore alpine villages
How to get around – Renting a car is best for flexibility; cable cars & local buses are useful once you’re in the region
Spending a few summer days in the Dolomites might only scratch the surface and may not be enough to see it all, but it’s more than enough to fall in love with this beautiful region. From alpine hikes to sunset views, here’s how to make the most of a short yet unforgettable summer escape in the mountains.
Best time to visit
If you're planning a summer escape to the Dolomites, the best time to go is between late June and early October. During these months the mountain trails are snow-free, the alpine meadows are in full bloom, and the weather is ideal for hiking, biking and exploring. July and August bring the warmest temperatures and most vibrant but sometimes crowded atmosphere while June and September are perfect if you’re looking for quieter trails and a more peaceful pace, all with the same stunning scenery.
Where to stay
There’s no better way to connect with the magic of the Dolomites than by staying somewhere that brings the outdoors in and invites you to slow down but still with this sense of exploring. Cyprianerhof Dolomit Resort and San Luis Retreat Hotel & Lodges do exactly that, but both in a different way. They offer not only comfort and style, but a deep sense of place. These stays go far beyond the typical hotel experience, blending alpine charm with nature, wellness and quiet luxury.
Cyprianerhof Dolomit Resort: For hikers, spa-lovers & mountain purists
Nestled at the foot of the Rosengarten mountain group, this family-run resort is a dream come true for anyone who wants to stay in the mountains, not just near them. The views are stunning in every direction – jagged peaks, deep forests and lush alpine meadows – and the hiking trails start right at your doorstep. The interiors are modern but warm, with lots of wood, stone and natural materials that blend perfectly into the landscape.
The resort’s culinary standout feature is its exceptional dining experience, led by Chef Monika Damian, who crafts refined menus inspired by traditional Tyrolean recipes with a light modern and Mediterranean flair. Every evening brings a unique menu using fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally, with vegetarian and vegan options thoughtfully included.
What makes Cyprianerhof so unique is its commitment to wellness and movement. There’s a panoramic indoor-outdoor pool, several saunas with mountain views, daily guided hikes and a full program of yoga and fitness classes. Think of a long day on the trails followed by some relaxing hours by the natural swimming pond or outdoor pool and heading to dinner while the sun slowly sets behind the mountains. If you’re into outdoor adventure, mountain silence and alpine luxury – this is your place.
San Luis Retreat Hotel & Lodges: A forest hideaway for ultimate slow living
About an hour’s drive from the heart of the Dolomites, tucked into a peaceful larch forest near Merano, San Luis feels like a place from a storybook. Here you will sleep in either cozy wooden chalets or hidden treehouses, all designed in warm tones and natural, mostly wooden materials. The highlight? A private lake right in the middle of the resort, perfect for swimming in summer or just to sunbath during quiet mornings on your private chalet terrace.
San Luis is about slowing down and savoring the moment. The atmosphere is quiet, luxurious, and intimate – think flickering fireplaces, long breakfasts with views of the lake, forest walks and a spa that smells of pine and warm stone. Their restaurant focuses on seasonal, South Tyrolean-inspired cuisine with many ingredients sourced directly from the region. It’s a perfect choice if you want to disconnect from the world, reconnect with nature and enjoy the Italian alps in a softer, more serene way.
Things to see & do
The Dolomites offer an incredible variety of experiences, especially during the summer months.
Hike in the Carezza region, where well-marked trails wind through lush forests and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges. From Cyprianerhof take the Cabrio Cable Car in Tiers, an open-air gondola that gives you panoramic views as it transports you to Frommer Alm, the ideal starting point for several scenic hikes, for example the one to Lago di Carezza which we did.
Visit the breathtaking Lago di Braies, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters framed by towering peaks. This alpine lake is a must-see for nature lovers and photographers. Also, don’t miss Lago di Carezza, a smaller but equally enchanting lake known for its vibrant colors and calming atmosphere – the perfect option if you don’t have enough time for a trip to Lago die Braies or if you’re simply enjoying a less crowded place.
Experience the unforgettable sunrise at Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow, where the first light of day paints the mountains in warm, golden tones. A magical moment worth waking up early for.
Explore nearby alpine villages like Siusi, Sankt Maddalena, Cortina D’Ampezzo and Alleghe where charming streets, traditional architecture and local culture invite you to slow down and soak up authentic mountain life.
After your outdoor adventures, relax in San Luis’ or Cyprianerhof’s spa offering spectacular mountain views and soothing treatments to relax your body and mind.
How to get around
The best way to get around in the Dolomites region is by renting a car. It gives you the flexibility to explore hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and charming villages at your own pace. While public transport exists and can be useful for getting between major towns, it’s limited in more remote areas and especially early in the morning or late in the evening. If you're staying at a hotel like Cyprianerhof or San Luis, they also offer shuttle services and can help arrange transfers or guided excursions, making it even easier to enjoy the area without stress.
Summer in the Dolomites offers the perfect blend of active exploration and deep relaxation. Whether you're watching the sunrise over Alpe di Siusi, hiking the scenic trails around Carezza or simply soaking in the views from a mountain spa, this region has a way of making even just a few days feel incredibly fulfilling.
For the ultimate experience, consider combining two very special places to stay: Start at Cyprianerhof Dolomit Resort, where alpine adventure is right at your doorstep and the energy of the mountains surrounds you at every turn. Then, transition to San Luis Retreat Hotel & Lodges, where life slows down in the most beautiful way with forest-side saunas, cozy chalets and evenings by the lake under the stars. Together, they offer the best of both worlds: movement and stillness, rugged peaks and forest calm.
So pack your bags and let the adventure begin!