Tre Cime di Lavaredo between Auronzo and Dobbiaco

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo are one of the most iconic symbols of the UNESCO Dolomites and one of the most visited natural destinations in Italy. Located between the Province of Belluno and South Tyrol, within the Tre Cime Nature Park, they are famous for their unmistakable vertical profile that dominates the Dolomite landscape and makes them instantly recognizable worldwide.

The area stretches between Auronzo di Cadore, Misurina, and Dobbiaco, in a high-mountain setting easily accessible during the summer season. The main access point is the Rifugio Auronzo (Auronzo Hut), reachable via the panoramic road that climbs from Lake Antorno. The toll road operates during the summer months and requires online booking with time slot allocation, a system designed to reduce traffic, limit environmental impact, and improve visitor flow management.

Toll road and regulated access

Access to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo by car is allowed via a regulated toll road, open during the summer season.

The ascent starts from the Misurina / Lake Antorno area and covers about 6–7 km up to the Rifugio Auronzo, where the main parking area and trailheads are located.

Access is only permitted with mandatory online reservation, including vehicle plate registration and assigned time slots. The system helps protect the alpine environment and manage tourist flows.

The ticket is generally valid for about 12 hours, and the road is open roughly from late May to October, depending on weather and snow conditions.

2026 toll road prices

Car: €40
Motorbike: €26
Camper / motorhome: €60
Bus up to 30 seats: €80
Bus over 30 seats: €160
Auronzo residents: €5
Mountain guides and professionals: €150 seasonal pass

Payment and booking must be completed online before arrival.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo: features and peaks

The Tre Cime consist of three massive Dolomite peaks:

Cima Grande (2,999 m)
Cima Ovest (2,973 m)
Cima Piccola (2,857 m)

Their vertical and isolated shape makes them instantly recognizable. The Cima Grande is the highest and most sought-after by climbers.

In 1869, alpinist Paul Grohmann made the first ascent, marking a milestone in Dolomite climbing history. Today, the walls remain a world-class destination for alpine climbing.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo hiking loop

The Tre Cime loop hike is the most famous trek in the Dolomites.

Length: approx. 9.5–10 km
Duration: 3–4 hours
Difficulty: easy to moderate

Route

Rifugio Auronzo (start)
Rifugio Lavaredo
Forcella Lavaredo
Rifugio Locatelli
scenic return loop

It is considered one of the most spectacular hikes in the Alps thanks to constant views of the north faces.

Rifugios around the Tre Cime

The area is served by several mountain huts (rifugi), essential for hiking and high-altitude stops.

Rifugio Auronzo (2,333 m): main access point, located next to the parking area
Rifugio Lavaredo (2,344 m): 20-minute walk, panoramic stop along the trail
Rifugio Locatelli (2,405 m): one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Dolomites
Rifugio Pian di Cengia (2,528 m): remote and less crowded, ideal for longer trekking routes

It is possible to sleep in some huts during summer, but advance booking is strongly recommended, especially in high season.

When to visit the Tre Cime di Lavaredo

The best time to visit is summer, when the road is open and all trails are accessible.

In autumn, the area becomes quieter with beautiful colors. In winter, access is only possible on foot, snowshoes, or ski touring, as the road is closed to vehicles.