Sleddog and snowshoeing – Dolomites in Winter
When thinking of Dolomites in winter, you’ll immediately associate it to the Dolomiti Superski, the Alpe di Siusi and the Sellaronda skiing carousel, but you can discover the valley from a completely new side! Try Snowshoeing hikes or sleddog: the Dolomites offer you a raft of possibilities to be outdoors and enjoy the snow-covered landscape.
SLEDDOG
One of the most original ways to enjoy Dolomites in winter is certainly venturing out on a sled drawn by a pack of dogs.
This is a sport for all those who love the mountain in its most pristine aspect in the silence of the snowy woods and in the company of these friendly animals.
In the Dolomites you can approach this sport even with children, sliding along the snow and gifting excitement to big and small, just like in Jack London’s Alaska.
Whether by day or under the stars, dog sledding is a special sport; an unusual activity that can be experienced in one day, two days, or one week excursions.
Excursions are usually by dog-pulled sled guided by an instructor, and immersed in nature and surrounded by the valleys’ snow-covered forests. Dog sledding can therefore easily be learned in no time, even by children, aged 10 and above.
There are many places to experience dog sledding in the Dolomites: Andalo sull’Altopiano della Paganella, Passo Tonale, Alpe Cimbra, Passo Coe (Folgaria), Millegrobbe (Lavarone), Val di Sole, Valle Cimbra, and Piana di Nambino (Madonna di Campiglio).
This activity is suitable for anyone with a minimum of physical fitness, from the age of 6 years onwards and allows you to establish a fantastic relationship with sled Dogs.
The recommended clothing is the classic ski suit with a full suit, or sufficiently warm trousers and anorak, gloves, hat and eventual glasses. After-ski or non-bulky trekking shoes to allow you to move easily on the snow.
SNOWSHOEING
Undisturbed nature, incredible views over the Dolomites. Snow lovers will find everything they could wish for on a snowshoe walk.
There are plenty of opportunities for snowshoeing in the Italian Alps, and one of the best places to do so is no doubt the Val di Non, where snowshoeing as a leisure activity was invented.
Snowshoeing as a means of trans-portation goes back thousands of years, used by populations who needed to move through deep snow.
Nowadays, snowshoeing is one of the fastest-growing winter sports; after all, what’s not to love about it? It’s easy, healthy, lets you enjoy the mountains blanketed in snow at a slow pace, far from crowded ski slopes, and it’s fun. You just have to try it!
Best time to visit Dolomites
The best time to visit the Dolomites during winter is from December to March. The imposing peaks of the Dolomite Mountains provide extraordinary terrain for skiing, snowboarding, Snowshoeing, and other winter activities.
During the winter, many of the refuge is open for lunches, dinners, and overnight, so you can take a break for a meal on the mountain, or do a winter traverse from hut-to-hut! And, if you arrive early enough in the season, you’ll also find several Christmas markets throughout the Dolomites.
Dolomites in Winter – How to get there
By Air: the closest airport to the mountains is the Verona International Airport. From this airport, there are multiple buses that will take you to the towns surrounding the mountains. Venice Airport is the closest major international hub for the region. Renting a car will be the fastest of course.
If you do not want to rent a car, the best option is to take a bus from the airport. Shuttles from the airport will run to numerous towns in and around Venice
Dolomiti Hotels – Where to Stay
Best luxury hotel: Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti 5*, Pinzolo
World-class luxury in a magical and enchanted place
Where nature, luxury and unspoiled beauty harmoniously co-exist: Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti is set in the splendid scenery of the Dolomites, declared by UNESCO a “World Heritage Site”. An innate beauty which can be experienced in every season: in winter glaciers and snow-capped peaks are the ideal destination for skiers of all levels(150 km of slopes, 4 snowboard parks and a single ski pass valid for the entire ski area, the biggest in Trentino); while in summer the idyllic green mountains of the Dolomites provide the perfect sets for hiker. Two golf courses (9 holes) are located just a few minutes from the Resort and those who are looking for adventures may choose among horse riding and mountain bike excursions.
Best mid-range hotel: Hotel Monroc 4*, Commezzadura
Best for style without breaking the bank
Situated in Commezzadura in the Trentino Alto Adige Region, 100 m from Daolasa – Val Mastellina ski lift, Monroc Hotel boasts views of the mountains. The hotel has a ski storage space, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant. Free private parking is available on site as well as free WiFi throughout the property. The rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels.
Best budget hotel: Albergo Alla Posta 3*, Madonna di Campiglio
Perfect for a family stay
Only 6 km from the ski resort of Madonna di Campiglio, Albergo Alla Posta is in the small mountain town of Sant’Antonio di Mavignola. It offers free parking, free bike rental and free Wi-Fi in public areas.
Fitted with wooden furnishings, the bright rooms all come with an LCD TV and a balcony overlooking the mountains. Each room has its own private bathroom. Guests at the Alla Posta can enjoy discounts on ski passes.
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