Belluno Dolomites

General information

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Paddleboarding

The Belluno Dolomites are located in the Italian region of Veneto and are primarily a unique paradise for mountain lovers. Nevertheless, paddlers can find some interesting SUP spots in this rugged alpine world.

The dammed Lake Auronzo in the north of the region offers emerald green water and a distant view of the famous Three Peaks, which are already part of the neighboring Sesto Dolomites. To the south lies Lake Cadore, which, at just under two kilometers long, is the second-longest reservoir in the region.

Lake Cadore is nothing more than the dammed Piave River. This 220 km long Alpine river and its valley form the eastern border of the Belluno Dolomites and in this region — its upper reaches — it is unfortunately an unpaddleable torrent except for Lake Cadore. Only from the provincial capital of Belluno can experienced paddlers paddle the now tame river to the Adriatic Sea near Jesolo. However, SUPing on the Piave is only possible when the water level is high enough: Belluno Ponte Vittoria min. 120 cm, Nervesa Della Battaglia min. 50 cm.

The longest reservoir in the region, Lake Mis, is also a beautiful paddling area with wooded mountain slopes all the way down to the water. Lake Santa Croce is located in the very south of the Belluno Dolomites. This natural lake is the largest in the province and the second largest in Veneto. It is also a true paradise for birdwatchers and water sports enthusiasts.

Lago di Schener, which is particularly popular with fishermen, also seems to us to be a beautiful reservoir for paddleboarding, but we have not yet been able to find out whether water sports are permitted there.

Swimming

The Belluno Dolomites offer several swimming lakes with clean, mostly cool water, the quality of which is regularly checked. Lake Auronzo (also known as Lago di Santa Caterina) is located at an altitude of 830 meters and reaches water temperatures between 18 and 22°C in midsummer. It has sunbathing areas, swimming areas, and boat rental stations.

Lake Santa Croce is larger and has well-developed beaches and water sports equipment rentals. There is also the long Lago di Cadore with several well-maintained bathing areas and clear water up to 20°C.

Swimming is often only possible to a limited extent in the region outside designated areas. On the one hand to protect nature reserves, and on the other hand because it is difficult or impossible to swim in the rivers and torrents.

Belluno also has a public indoor swimming pool, the Piscina Comunale di Belluno. It has a swimming pool, a baby pool and a diving pool.

Worth seeing

Whether it's the Cadini del Brenton waterfalls, Monte Schiara, the Rifugio Lagazuoi or the emerald green Lago del Mis – the Belluno Dolomites offer magnificent natural diversity. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike and climb here, as well as enjoy waterfalls and spectacular views. Those looking for a special thrill can book a conyoning or rafting tour. Winter sports enthusiasts, on the other hand, can join a snowmobile tour or a snowshoe hike.

The charming provincial capital of Belluno is known for its historic old town and impressive Alpine landscape. It is located in the south of the Belluno Dolomites National Park and offers numerous opportunities for hiking, skiing and enjoying nature. The town combines Venetian architecture with an Alpine atmosphere and is an ideal starting point for outdoor activities.

Cortina d’Ampezzo is considered the "Pearl of the Dolomites" and offers breathtaking views of the majestic mountain peaks. The world-famous Olympic ski resort is a paradise for nature lovers and attracts visitors in winter with its first-class ski slopes, while in summer it is ideal for hiking and climbing.

The Messner Mountain Museum Monte Rite is located on a former fort at an altitude of 2,181 meters and is dedicated to the "mountain as myth". The panoramic view of the Dolomites is unique, and the museum attracts culture lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Dolomiti in Miniatura is a detailed model park in Auronzo di Cadore with true-to-scale replicas of the UNESCO Dolomite mountain ranges. It is educational, interactive and, above all, very family-friendly for young and old alike.

Extra Tips

Every year in June, the Buskers Festival Belluno hosts a lively street art festival in the center of Belluno. Admission is free and there is something for everyone, including acrobatics, live music, theater and interactive stations.

In autumn, the Honey Festival in Limana is all about the regional DOP honey variety, with tastings, children's workshops and beekeeping demonstrations. Culinary delights meet tradition. It is not without reason that the region around Limana is also known as Paese del Miele, or Land of Honey.

Anyone who wants to experience the local culinary tradition up close can take part in a pasta or tiramisu class in the Belluno area, for example, or visit the vineyards. There are also traditional cooking courses that include lunch or dinner.

At the Parco Avventura Caralte high ropes course, children and adults can enjoy climbing adventures and water games, as well as trampoline jumping. There are also picnic and barbecue areas as well as sports fields.

Just as entertaining is Italy's longest summer toboggan run – the Fun Bob Auronzo. With a view of the Three Peaks, you start at the mountain station of the Taiarezze – Malon chairlift and glide down towards the valley, well secured and winding your way through the curves.

La Roggia dei Mulini in Lozzo di Cadore is an important example of industrial archaeology, where water from the Rio Rin was used for centuries to power mills, rope presses, fulling machines, saws and a small power station. Today, some of the historic mills are still preserved, and a visitor trail offers insights into the old water wheels, tools and techniques.

Overnight Stay

Hotel Auronzo – outdoor basecamp
Via Roma 30, 32041 Auronzo di Cadore
Phone +39 (0)351 483 6845

AL Campanile Holiday Home
32010 Pieve D'alpago

Dolada Boutique Hotel
Via Dolada 21, 32016 Alpago
Phone +39 (0)437 479141

Cador Hotel
Via XX Settembre 42, 32040 Valle di Cadore
Phone +39 (0)351 690 2915

Camping Cadore
Via Peronaz 3/4, 32020 Selva di Cadore
Phone +39 (0)353 4745079

Camping Europa
Via Pause 21, 32041 Auronzo di Cadore
Phone +39 (0)435 400688

Gastronomy

Ristorante dell’Hotel Miravalle
Via Alpini 9, 32041 Auronzo di Cadore
Phone +39 (0)335 7763155

Ristorante dell’Agriturismo Al Tabia
Via Lungo Lago Lario 33, 32041 Auronzo di Cadore
Phone +39 (0)377 090 3474

Chaet al Fogher
Borgo Salagona 32, 32040 Vigo di Cadore
Phone +39 (0)371 422 2914

Birreria Pedavena
Viale Vittorio Veneto 76, 32034 Pedavena
Phone +39 (0)439 304402 

Osteria La Muda di San Boldo
Passo di San Boldo 2, Cison di Valmarino
Phone +39 (0)437 757253

Locanda San Martino
Via Don Ermolao Barattin 23, 32010 San Martino
Phone +39 (0)334 1390806

Ristorante Baita Fraina
Via Fraina 1, 32043 Cortina D’Ampezzo
Phone +39 (0)436 3634