Autumn is the perfect time to visit the Dolomites, when the forests turn shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating spectacular panoramas. Foliage in the Dolomites is a natural phenomenon that attracts hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts, with trails winding through golden larches, beeches, and colorful maples. Let’s explore the best places to see the foliage in South Tyrol, the province of Belluno, Trentino, and the Friulian Dolomites.
South Tyrol: Golden Forests of Alpe di Siusi and Val di Funes
South Tyrol is one of the most scenic regions for autumn foliage, thanks to its larch forests and picturesque valleys:
- Alpe di Siusi: the largest high plateau in Europe turns into a palette of colors, with golden larches contrasting with green meadows and the Dolomites in the background.
- Val di Funes: hikes among the Odle peaks offer enchanting views with traditional chapels immersed in autumn colors.
- Val Gardena: trails in Ortisei, Selva, and Santa Cristina reveal unique fall colors.
- Alpine lakes and hiking paths: such as Lake Carezza and the Sassolungo trail, perfect for walks amid autumn scenery.
Province of Belluno: Cortina d’Ampezzo, Alpago, and Cansiglio Forest
The province of Belluno is one of the best areas to admire foliage in the Dolomites. Notable spots include:
- Cansiglio Forest: a vast woodland where beeches and firs create spectacular autumn scenes.
- Alpago: the best places to admire the foliage are near Malga Pian Grant da Col Indes or along the trail to Semenza Hut and Lake Santa Croce. Here, beeches, maples, and larches turn red, orange, and yellow, offering unforgettable autumn walks.
- Cortina d’Ampezzo and the Ampezzane Dolomites: panoramic trails at Lake Federa, Sorapis, Mietres Hut, and from Malga Ra Stua to Sennes Hut feature forests of larches and beeches painted in red, yellow, and orange.
Trentino: Val di Fassa, Val di Fiemme, and Autumn Lakes
Trentino combines mountains and lakes, creating spectacular scenes for Dolomites foliage:
- Val di Fassa and Val di Fiemme: larch and maple forests turn yellow and orange with the Dolomites as a backdrop.
- Passo San Pellegrino: the hike to Fuciade Hut offers unique experiences in autumn.
- Altopiano di Piné and Lagorai: easy trails through colorful woods, ideal for family hikes.
- Lake Molveno and Lake Toblino: trees reflected in the water create unforgettable autumn photos.
- Val Rendena and Paganella: trails immersed in foliage, perfect for walks and autumn trekking.
Friulian Dolomites: Autumn in Untamed Nature and Charming Villages
The Friulian Dolomites, less known, offer authentic autumn foliage:
- Val Cimoliana and Val Cellina: beech and maple forests turn red and yellow.
- Friulian Dolomites Natural Park: spectacular hiking trails ideal for those seeking intense colors and unspoiled nature.
- Forni di Sopra and Forni di Sotto: charming villages surrounded by autumn colors, perfect for photography walks.
- Alpine lakes: water mirrors reflecting the foliage, creating magical scenery.
When to See Foliage in the Dolomites
The best time to admire foliage in the Dolomites is from late September to mid-October, with variations depending on altitude and exposure. Each year the colors change, making every hike unique.
Autumn in the Dolomites is a unique experience: from the golden forests of South Tyrol to Cansiglio Forest and Alpago, from the panoramic hikes in Cortina d’Ampezzo at Rifugio Mietres and Malga Ra Stua, to the Friulian Dolomites, the foliage of the Dolomites offers unforgettable scenery. Walks, hikes, and photography become lasting memories immersed in the most authentic nature.
