Tre Cime Di Lavaredo
Tre Cime di Lavaredo
The most unique rock formation we ever have seen
Hiking around Tre Cime Di Lavaredo
The highlight of our road trip in the Dolomites was the hike around the Tre Cime Di Lavaredo - Drei Zinnen Dolomites.
We didn't have high expectations before the hike, as this was our first trip to the Dolomites and nothing was planned in advance. Of course, we had seen all the amazing pictures of the unique rocks before we arrived, but no pictures can do justice to how spectacular these peaks are in real life. Don't cheat yourself to experience the three peaks.
Start
The hike starts from the parking lot next to Rifugio Auronzo and takes you to a small mountain chapel. All the way you have a huge panoramic view of the jagged mountains. The path is easy for everyone.
From the mountain chapel you continue towards Rifugio Lavaredo, which is an old mountain hut, where you can see the three peaks from the back.
During the high season it is possible to stay overnight at Refugio Lavaredo, remember to book in advance.
Refugio Lavaredo
From the Rifugio Lavaredo hut we walked along a steep rocky path up to the Forcella Lavaredo viewpoint, from this point you can see the three peaks from the side - UNIQUE VIEW. You can also choose to walk on the gravel road, which is more accessible. Both paths lead to the Forcella Lavaredo viewpoint.
We stopped when we arrived at the viewpoint and enjoyed the wonderful view of the Tre Cime.
We made a stop when we arrived at the viewpoint and enjoyed the wonderful view of the Tre Cime
Hike to Rifugio Locatelli
Further from the Forcella Lavaredo viewpoint you can look in the opposite direction towards Rifugio Locatelli.
To get to Rifugio Locatelli you must continue following the signs 101. Enjoy the view all the way, it is dramatic and beautiful.
Stay at Rifugio Locatelli
When you arrive at Rifugio Locatelli, you will be greeted by a unique view of the three peaks.
Consider staying overnight at the refuge and enjoy both sunset and sunrise in front of the Tre Cime.
Remember to book accommodation at Rifugio Locatelli before arrival.
Laghi dei Piani - Piani lakes
One of the great reasons to hike: Tre Cime di Lavardo, is the variety of landscapes. One of these is the Piani Lakes.
You will find the lakes behind Rifugio Locatelli. From here you can continue along hiking trail 101. If you like the idea of leaving the crowds behind, this is a great addition to the Tre Cime hike.
The map
The entire hike around the Tre Cime is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) and can be done in about 4 hours.
We took several breaks along the way and spent about 6 hours. We walked the route counter clockwise and mostly followed paths 101 and 105. The hike is rated easy, but we found parts of it to be a bit difficult. We hiked with our dog, and he did fine. The trail is mostly wide, but with loose stones and steps, which makes it a bit difficult.
If you have trouble walking, we recommend walking clockwise to Rifugio Lavaredo and following the easy trail up to the first viewpoint. From here, you walk back the same way.
Season
We chose to visit the Dolomites in October, as we prefer to travel outside the high season. The colors are insanely beautiful at this time and the weather is still warm. During the fall, the thousands of larch trees change color to yellow and orange.
Location and parking
Tre Cime Di Lavaredo UNESCO World Heritage is located in the Sexten Dolomites in northeastern Italy.
The parking lot for Tre Cime di Lavaredo is located next to Rifugio Auronzo. The parking lot is very large and can accommodate hundreds of vehicles. It often fills up, so arrive well in advance or preferably the evening before. The road up to the parking lot starts north of Lago Misurina. You will come across a payment machine at the bottom at Lago d’Antorno, from here it is a 7 km drive up to the parking lot. There is a limit on how many vehicles are allowed to drive up.
Next to the payment machine you will see a digital sign that shows the number of available parking spaces. When it shows 0, the access to the parking lot is closed. Price approx. €30 per vehicle and approx. €45 per camper - valid for 24 hours
Parking and overnight stay in our own home, probably one of the most beautiful views we have ever experienced
Overnight stay
We were surprised to discover that we could spend a night at the top. If you arrive after 7pm, you can stay overnight at no extra charge. Your ticket is valid for 24 hours. Wake up the next morning to a magnificent view before the other tourists arrive. Rifugio Auronzo is located by the car park, but there are no facilities during the night, so you will need to be self-sufficient.
