Published 2nd Feb. 2026
Written by Emily Heeks
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The Dolomites in winter are pure magic, with snow-dusted summits, rosy alpenglow and villages that look straight out of a fairytale. When the crowds thin and the mountains put on their white coats, this UNESCO-listed range transforms into one of Europe’s most breathtaking cold-weather destinations. Beyond its world-class slopes, the Dolomites invites you to hike along alpine trails, sip hot chocolate in mountain huts and watch sunsets paint jagged peaks. Add in centuries-old traditions and hearty food and you have a season that truly shines. Craving a winter escape? Read on to discover why you should visit the Dolomites in winter...
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One of the top reasons to visit the Dolomites in winter is for the stellar skiing. Located in northeastern Italy, the mountain range is home to the vast Dolomiti Superski area, offering over 745 miles of interconnected slopes. Gentle blues and flowing red pistes provide ideal terrain for beginners and intermediate skiers, while adrenaline junkies are rewarded with steep descents, such as Alta Badia’s legendary Gran Risa, known for hosting World Cup races. The mountains here span several regions, and the crown jewel is the magnificent Marmolada. At 10,967ft, it’s the highest peak in the Dolomites. Fancy a change of scenery? Just sciare (ski) over to the neighbouring resorts of Cortina d’Ampezzo, Val Gardena and Arabba.
Image by AlbertPego / Getty Images
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If skiing isn’t your thing, fear not – there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the snow in the Dolomites in winter. Swap skis for a toboggan in the charming villages of Selva, Santa Cristina or Ortisei – the perfect starting points for a toboggan run. Fancy a different type of adventure? Wander through silent forests on snowshoes, try your hand at ice climbing, glide along in a horse-drawn carriage or experience the thrill of dog sledding.
Crisp hikes are just as magical, with frost-tipped trees and icy streams along the way. Ladin legends shroud the forests, too, with stories of mountain spirits and enchanted woods dating back thousands of years. And with fewer visitors during the winter, you’ll only have the mountains (and their myths) for company.
Image by Faustine Poidevin
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Another reason to visit the Dolomites in winter is for some seasonal wildlife watching. Fresh tracks of chamois, foxes and mountain hares weave across frozen meadows, while high above, goshawks and golden eagles circle the peaks in search of prey. Red deer move through the forests at dusk and dawn and wolves patrol the higher ridges, visible only to the most patient observers. Wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, but they make every step of the hike worthwhile.
Image by SalvoL / Getty Images
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While you’re bounding from one valley to the next, you can count on working up a mountain-sized appetite. The region’s traditional cuisine blends Italian, Austrian and Ladin influences passed down through generations and lovingly prepared in cosy rifugi (mountain huts). Think canederli (bread dumplings made with meat or cheese, served in a melted-butter broth) and casunziei (ravioli filled with beetroot or spinach). Divine.
If you’re a fan of cheese, you’re in for a treat – the Dolomites are famous for their mountain-cured cheeses, from nutty gruyere-style varieties to local specialities like montano and grana cheese, melted into classic winter dishes like strangolapreti and Italian goulash. Need a sweet treat after some snowboarding? Velvety hot chocolate and warm apple strudel await to melt the chill away.
Image by Marina Tsybizova / Getty Images
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Visiting the Dolomites in winter means staying at some seriously cosy alpine resorts where relaxation is the main order of the day. Hop in thermal pools heated by natural springs, unwind in soothing saunas and enjoy indulgent massages as you marvel at glittering peaks. Wellness has deep roots in the Dolomites, with visitors flocking to the region’s mineral pools since the 19th century in search of healing. Prefer something colder? Brave the freezing plunge pools, rewarded by steaming saunas and emerge feeling energised, ready to tackle the next ski slope or mountain hike.
Image by serts / Getty Images
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In the colder months, the Dolomites transform into a winter wonderland. Bundle up and stroll through charming Christmas markets, brimming with handmade crafts, ornaments and one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list. As the snow falls, admire the twinkling festive displays that light up every villaggio (village) and breathe in the aroma of roasted chestnuts and sweet cinnamon.
Time your visit right and you can also catch the 2026 Winter Olympics which are set to be hosted here. Whether you’re cheering on Olympic athletes or simply savouring the electric atmosphere in alpine villages, it’s a rare opportunity to experience adrenaline and seasonal cheer in one visit. And who knows, on your next ski run down the mountains, you might find yourself pretending you’re competing for gold.
Image by Faustine Poidevin
Header image by Roberto Moiola / Sysaworld / Getty Images
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