The Italian Dolomites sit on the northernmost edge of Italy, starting just a couple hours north of Venice, and skirting against Austria, Switzerland, and Slovenia. Dolomites elopements are dramatic, passionate, adventurous, and one-of-a-kind.
When planning Dolomites elopements, I always tell folks to plan on a day of adventure. We can always take a break in the middle, but there is so much to see, we’ll want to take advantage!
Your elopement can start with a jaw-dropping sunrise in Tre Cime national park, surrounded by jagged peaks and the calming ring of cowbells. Later, we can take a tram ride (or hike) to the Dolomites’ highest mountain hut, Rifugio Lagazuoi, to enjoy warming dumpling soup. At the end of the day, you could quietly exchange your vows as the sun sets behind purple mountains.
In nearby Cortina d’Ampezzo, we might grab flowers, coffee, a cute aperitivo – anything fun to warm up and get a more “urban” backdrop to start or finish the day. Or, we can stick to rugged mountain huts in the middle of tall peaks.
That’s how this day, with Elisabeth and Julius, transpired. We were blessed with crisp, clear September weather and perfect conditions in one of the most incredible locations in the world.
All photos by Voyage and Vine
Starting Your Dolomites Elopement at Sunrise
Tre Cime National Park, in German known as Drei Zinnen, is the gateway to a number of multi-day and brief hikes that the Italian Dolomites are known for. From Rifugio Auronzo you can set off for a 4.5(ish) mile hike around the three peaks that the park is known for. Or, you can head toward the Cadini di Misurina, which is what we did, to catch the most incredible sunrise views.
By European standards the hike is relatively easy, but those used to well-groomed trails should be prepared to take your time and wear very sturdy boots. But, with views like these, I don’t recommend you arrive in a hurry, anyway.
On our way back to the car, we were so, so lucky to walk through a herd of friendly horses.
An Afternoon at Rifugio Lagazuoi
Accessible by strenuous hike, the highest mountain hut in the Dolomites also has a cable car to its peak. This nail-biting experience is absolutely worth it for the views. Rifugio Lagazuoi also boasts the highest sauna in the Dolomites, which I highly recommend taking advantage of.
This stop was the perfect opportunity to explore a completely different geography from the rest of the Dolomites. We also took a moment to enjoy warming alpine soup, cheeses, and of course, a pint of beer.
Sunset in Passo di Giau
We optimistically watched clouds roll in and out throughout the day, crossing our fingers for a sunset. As we arrived, we knew we were in for a treat. Passo di Giau features a rugged peak that climbs out of nowhere – towering over rolling green hills and trails. We scrambled to the best spot just as the sun began to disappear.
Here, Elisabeth and Julius exchanged vows just as the golden light started to spread over the valley.
Planning a Dolomites Elopement
For those seeking an adventure abroad, the Dolomites are the top of the list of recommendations for me. The geography is so incredibly diverse, and there isn’t a SINGLE location that won’t blow you away. You can hike, but there are also so many places where you can park and find an epic view.
Whether or want a multi-day hut-to-hut hike, or a more luxurious, slow-paced adventure, let’s plan the trip of your dreams. I’m familiar with all of the hot spots as well as the lesser-known locations.
If you’re ready to start planning your Dolomites elopement, let’s chiacchiere.
Andiamo!
