September, 3 days in the Dolomites
Endless peace and silence — only birdsong and the gentle chime of bells fastened to each cow’s chest.
Here, in the alpine meadows of the Dolomites, time stands still. The landscape unfolds like the most beautiful puzzle or the illustrated pages of a nature book — every mountain, every flower-covered field, every sunbeam gliding across the peaks seems carefully placed to create perfect harmony. Nature here doesn’t just exist — it breathes, it speaks, and it invites you to be fully present.
Places
Seceda – when I first saw a photograph of the dramatically sloping Seceda ridgeline, I knew: this was a place I had to see with my own eyes. A beloved destination for hikers, yet filled with countless fairy-tale spots where you can lie down in the grass and simply take in the view.
I hiked up from the Cristauta parking area — a route that was at times challenging, but overflowing with breathtaking scenery. Moments of rest in mountain huts, sipping freshly pressed juice or searching for the most delicious apple strudel, made the journey even more memorable.
How to get there
Starting point – parking at Cristauta car park (1,750 m). The number of spaces is limited, but in the second half of September, we still found available spots even after 9:00 AM.
Seceda summit. Distance & Duration – approximately 6–7 km one way, taking about 2.5 to 3 hours uphill and 2 hours downhill. For an easier alternative, you can take one of the cable cars that go directly to the summit: Col Raiser cable car or Funivie Seceda Spa.
Alpe di Siusi – A Sanctuary of Serenity
Alpe di Siusi is a true oasis of tranquility — a place where mountains meet meadows and nature reveals its gentlest, most delicate side. It’s an easy walking area, where cows and horses roam freely across flower-filled pastures, adding a special sense of life and harmony. A place not for rushing, but simply for being.
Getting there – access by car is restricted between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM (unless your overnight stay is right here), so it’s best to arrive at sunrise.
Alternatively, take the Mont Sëuc cable car from Ortisei, which offers a scenic and effortless ascent to the plateau.
Santa Maddalena Church and St. John
These small churches nestled in the Val di Funes valley are among the most photographed locations in the Dolomites — and rightfully so. Their charming silhouettes set against the dramatic backdrop of the Odle mountain range create a scene so perfect, it feels like nature and architecture conspired to compose a masterpiece.
Lago di Braies – The Emerald Gem of the Dolomites
Lago di Braies is one of the most iconic and most photographed lakes in the Dolomites — and for good reason. Its emerald-green waters, surrounded by steep cliffs and dense forests, create a setting so enchanting, it feels like stepping into a fairytale.
One of the most popular ways to experience Lago di Braies is by renting a wooden rowboat. Gliding across the calm surface offers a peaceful perspective of the lake’s beauty — though be prepared for long queues at the boat rental.
I opted for the scenic walk around the lake instead — a gentle, accessible trail of about 3.5 km, with views that shift and surprise at every turn.
Cadini di Misurina – A Hidden Masterpiece of the Dolomites
Cadini di Misurina is one of the most spectacular yet lesser-known mountain groups in the Dolomites. Its jagged peaks and narrow ridgelines create a dramatic, almost surreal landscape — a striking contrast to the gentler surroundings nearby.
To reach the iconic Cadini di Misurina viewpoint, I started from Rifugio Auronzo, a parking area that requires advance reservation and is located near the popular Tre Cime di Lavaredo. The trail is relatively short (about 2 km round trip), but it demands attention — steep drop-offs and narrow paths make it both thrilling and unforgettable.
Often overshadowed by the fame of Tre Cime, Cadini di Misurina remains a hidden gem. We encountered only a handful of hikers, and the atmosphere felt intimate — as if discovering a secret that nature had been quietly keeping just for you.
Tre Cime di Lavaredo – An Iconic and Emotional Ascent
Tre Cime di Lavaredo was the second most challenging hike of the trip — yet one of the most beautiful and iconic, and undoubtedly one of the most emotional experiences in the Dolomites.
Known as the Three Peaks of Lavaredo, this mountain trio — Cima Grande, Cima Ovest, and Cima Piccola — stands tall with its monumental vertical cliffs, forming one of the most recognizable silhouettes in the entire region.
I ended the hike here at sunset — the light painted the cliffs in golden tones, and silence reigned, broken only by the whisper of the wind.
The full circuit is approximately 10 km, taking around 3.5 to 4.5 hours depending on pace and photo stops. It’s a moderately challenging route with stunning panoramic views throughout.
You’ll need to park your car at Rifugio Auronzo (with shared parking at Misurina, it’s easy to combine both destinations in a single visit) , which serves as both the starting and ending point of the loop. Note that advance reservation is required for parking during peak season.
Accommodation
There are countless mountain huts and charming places to stay throughout the Dolomites. But if you’re looking for more than just a place to sleep — if you want to truly indulge in the Dolomites — then Alpin Panorama Hotel Hubertus offers a luxurious spa experience that’s perfect after long days of hiking. For a truly unique overnight experience, you can choose to sleep under the open sky or near a lake — in a tent, camper van, or simply in a sleeping bag.
Transportation
Public transport to hiking trails is well-organized and reliable. However, to save time and enjoy the freedom to stop wherever your heart desires, I highly recommend renting a car. The scenic roads are part of the adventure, and having your own vehicle allows you to explore independently and at your own pace.
At times, this journey was heavy — but so deeply resonant. The Dolomites are a place to breathe with a grateful heart.
Thank you for joining on this journey and allowing me to share my photos and experiences from the Dolomites.
See you in the next post!
With gratitude, Zeina
