Things to Do in Alta Badia in Summer | Dolomites Travel Guide

Looking for the best things to do in Alta Badia in summer? This beautiful mountain region in the Dolomites in northern Italy is an absolute paradise for outdoor lovers in the Italian Alps. Think endless alpine meadows, dramatic limestone peaks, scenic gondola rides and some of the best mountain hut food you will find anywhere in the Alps.

During my road trip through Germany, Austria and Italy I ended up in the charming mountain villages of Alta Badia. I stayed at Natur Hotel Miraval in La Villa and spent several days exploring the region on foot, by bike and by taking the gondolas high into the mountains.

From San Cassiano to Corvara and Colfosco, every corner of Alta Badia surprised me with incredible views and a very relaxed alpine atmosphere.

In this travel guide I share my favorite experiences and the best things to do in Alta Badia in summer, from scenic hikes and cycling routes to unforgettable mountain hut lunches in the heart of the Dolomites.

Below you will find all my tips to help you plan an unforgettable summer trip to Alta Badia.

Where is Alta Badia in the Dolomites

Alta Badia is a stunning alpine region located in the heart of the Dolomites in northern Italy. It lies in the autonomous province of South Tyrol, close to the borders with Austria and the Italian region of Trentino.

The area is part of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its dramatic limestone peaks, lush alpine meadows and some of the most spectacular hiking landscapes in Europe. Alta Badia sits at the foot of the Sella Massif and is surrounded by iconic Dolomite mountains such as Sassongher, Lavarela and Conturines.

Alta Badia consists of several charming mountain villages including Corvara, Colfosco, San Cassiano, La Villa, Badia and La Val.

These villages are connected by scenic mountain roads, cable cars and hiking trails that make exploring the region incredibly easy.

All of them are worth visiting, trust me! Also in Winter. I have personally stayed in almost all of them during ski holidays. Check out my guide where to ski in Dolomiti Superski.

Because of its central location in the Dolomites, Alta Badia is also close to other famous mountain destinations such as Val Gardena, Cortina d’Ampezzo and Val di Fassa.

If you're exploring more of the region, you might also want to read my guide about Val di Fiemme in summer for another incredible outdoor destination in the Dolomites.

South Tyrol is known not only for its spectacular Dolomite landscapes but also for its fantastic alpine hotels. During my travels in the region I stayed at several amazing properties including the Hotel Sonnalp in Obereggen and the beautiful Hotel Winkler Sport & Spa Resort.

Map of Alta Badia

Alta Badia is part of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site and consists of several beautiful alpine villages spread across a scenic valley. The main villages that travelers usually explore are Corvara, Colfosco, San Cassiano, La Villa, Badia and La Val.

Most visitors stay in one of these villages and use the extensive network of hiking trails, mountain lifts and scenic roads to explore the surrounding mountains. The villages are all within short driving distance of each other, making Alta Badia a very easy destination to explore during a summer trip in the Dolomites.

If you are wondering where Alta Badia is located in the Dolomites, the map below shows the position of the region and its surrounding mountain villages.

If you are planning to explore more of the Dolomites, Alta Badia is also close to other famous mountain destinations such as Val Gardena, Cortina d'Ampezzo and Val di Fassa, making it a perfect base for a longer road trip through northern Italy.

Best time to visit Alta Badia in summer

The best time to visit Alta Badia in summer is between late June and mid September. During these months the mountain lifts are open, alpine huts welcome hikers and the famous Dolomite trails are fully accessible.

I visited Alta Badia in the middle of summer and it quickly became one of my favorite mountain destinations in the Dolomites. What I loved most is how easy it is to access incredible landscapes. Within minutes you can take a cable car high into the mountains and start hiking through endless alpine meadows with dramatic limestone peaks all around you.

July and August are the most popular months. This is when the weather is usually the most stable and all mountain huts and lifts operate daily. During my visit I spent most days exploring the hiking trails, stopping at traditional mountain huts for lunch and enjoying the views over the surrounding Dolomite peaks.

If you prefer a slightly quieter experience, June and September can be fantastic months to visit as well. The landscapes are incredibly green in early summer and in September the mountains often feel calmer once the peak holiday crowds have disappeared.

If you enjoy combining hiking with spa and wellness experiences, South Tyrol is famous for its luxury alpine resorts. Some beautiful options in the region include Hotel Chalet Mirabell near Merano and the peaceful Hotel Saltus in San Genesio.

Best things to do in Alta Badia in Summer

There are many amazing things to do in Alta Badia in summer. From scenic hiking trails and mountain lakes to gourmet mountain huts and outdoor adventures, the region offers endless opportunities to explore the spectacular landscapes of the Dolomites.

Below are my favorite activities and experiences after spending several days exploring Alta Badia and its surrounding mountain villages.

1. Hiking in Alta Badia

Actually no need to tell you that hiking in Alta Badia and the Dolomites in general is one of the best things to do. There are so many trails that your best bid is to just find yourself a mountain hut you want to hike or go to any lift station and get yourself a trail map.

I would recommend you to ask at the hotel you are staying at for the best hiking trails in Alta Badia. At the end of the day, locals know best!

There are also multi day trekking routes available for those hiking fanatics with a duration up to 7 days through these UNESCO world heritage landscapes.

A challenge that I really would like to try is the 4 Peaks Alta Badia challenge. Summiting 4 peaks of the Dolomites in 24 kilometers (15 miles) and almost 2,000 altitude meters (6,560 ft.).

Even for those who don't feel fit enough to conquer those steep mountains, there hiking in Alta Badia can be fun. You can walk the path of the artists in the valley from La Villa to San Cassiano. It is relatively flat and easy terrain, traffic free. You will pass by art works from local artists.

Another tip for Alta Badia in summer is to take up one of the gondolas, fulfil your hiking craving for the day on one of the higher plateaus and take the lift down again.

If you love hiking in the Dolomites you may also enjoy staying at the Nature Active Hotel Rogen, another fantastic base for outdoor adventures in South Tyrol.

2. Relax at Bioch Hütte summer beach

Either you go hiking or your take the lift up, chilling out at the summer beach of Rifugio Utia de Bioch is a must do in Alta Badia. This is one of my favorite mountain huts in Alta Badia and the multiple beach chairs with the most amazing views over the Dolomites putting it high on the list of my tips for Alta Badia.

The hut owner has a passion for wines and the wine list at the Bioch Hütte is endless. Great quality wines from all over the world can be ordered here on 1,645 meters altitude (5,400 ft.). Sipping wine was never that exciting with those fantastic views.

3. Picnic at Pralongia Mountain Hut

Imagine picking up a picnic basket and searching for a quiet place somewhere on one of the green meadows. Yes you can do this! Alta Badia came up with this ingenious idea of picnicking on the mountains.

There are actually 10 different huts all over the Alta Badia mountains that offer this service, but I did it at the Pralongia because it has an amazing backdrop of some peaks of the Dolomites.

Inside the basket you will find gourmet food: salad box, small main course, a dessert and a fresh juice. Such a great initiative and one of the most relaxing things to do in Alta Badia in summer.

4. Visit Lake Boé in Alta Badia

One of those things to do in Alta Badia in summer that can't be missed. This amazing mountain lake should be on everyone's Alta Badia itinerary and is fairly easy to get to as well. From the top of the Piz Boé gondola it is only about 15-20 minutes walk uphill.

The backdrop of a steep wall of one of the Dolomite peaks is amazing. I even saw people swimming, but officially it is not allowed I heard, but I didn't see any signs. The water is pretty cold anyway, I can tell you, I dipped my feet in.

Some people brought some food, drinks, picnic blanket, etc. and were just chilling there. When you ask me Lake Boé is much better than the ocean and yet another reason to travel to Alta Badia in summer.

5. Aperitivo at Piz Boé Alpine Lounge

Looking for a more fancy style mountain hut for fine dining with breathtaking views? Reserve your table at the Piz Boé Alpine Lounge. This completely renovated restaurant offers the most amazing views over the Dolomites from your table. For the best table make a reservation in advance.

Outside there is a much more casual area with bean bags, a food truck with burgers and often a DJ playing some funky tunes, but without the good views.. Piz Boé Mountain Lounge has something for everyone and is located directly at the top station of the Piz Boé gondola coming from Corvara.

6. Lunch at Rifugio Franz Kostner

This Alta Badia summer activity is not about the food really. The Franz Kostner is more about the hut itself as it is located in an utterly stunning location on 2,500m (8,200 ft.). Far above the tree line in close proximity to some of the most amazing peaks of the Dolomites you can find this mountain hut run by the Agreiter Family. This is the traditional mountain hut in Alta Badia that you are looking for.

To get to Rifugio Franz Kostner you can either hike up from Corvara or take the Piz Boé gondola that brings you to the Piz Boé Alpine Lounge and then take the Vallon chairlift. From the top of the Vallon chairlift it is a 20 minutes relatively easy walk towards the Franz Kostner Hutte.

There are also some via ferrata's (protected climbing routes) around, the hut owners are more than happy to guide you in the right direction. If you are really into an adventure you can spend the night here. Click here to make a reservation through their website. Nightly rates already start from around €10! It totally is my secret travel tip for Alta Badia.

A little west from Rifugio Franz Kostner there is another mountain lake off the beaten path where you guaranteed will be the only one. The 15 minute hike is worth it.

7. Cycle the Sella Ronda from Alta Badia

When visiting Alta Badia and you are a fan of road cycling then Im sure you want to ride the famous Sella Ronda. It is not particularly long with around 65 kilometers (40 miles), but the almost 2,000 altitude meters (6,500 ft.) will be killing. You will cross the famous mountain passes: Pordoi, Gardena, Sella and Campolongo and reach a max altitude of 2,241 meters (7,352 ft.).

There is an event called Sella Ronda Bike Day every year were roads are blocked for other traffic. It is mostly held in the month of June.

A may be even more famous road cycling event held in Alta Badia is the Maratona dles Dolomites. This single day race is covering 7 mountain passes in the Dolomites that have to be conquered by bike with start and finish in Alta Badia. The Maratona dles Dolomites is also generally held in June.

This is something I would love to do some day, but I guess I have to train harder than hard.

8. Rent an e-bike in Alta Badia

Follow the crowd with this fairly new trend! You can rent e-bikes everywhere and it is worth giving it a try. Mountain biking never was that easy. Not that you won't have to do anything anymore, you will still need to push the peddles, but the integrated battery will help you.

It is a great way to cover a lot of ground either on the mountain or in the valley. Also a great way to tour your favorite mountain huts in Alta Badia.

9. Paragliding in Alta Badia

This is your chance to come as close to flying as possible! Don't be afraid you will be in the hands of professionals. They will guide you through the take off and after that it really is just sit back, relaxed and enjoy the flight.

It was one of those Alta Badia activities that was really high on my bucketlist. It felt really chilled and there was not a single moment that I felt anxious or anything. Must say when I finished I felt pretty dizzy, but so extremely happy. I did flew with the guys from Tandemflight Alta Badia.

10. Visit the Sompunt Deer Park

A completely different Alta Badia activity is to visit the Sompunt Deer Park between La Villa and Badia. More than 30 species of deer and fallow deer live here on 7 hectares of grassland and forest. Go to restaurant Paraciora (try the local burger here, it is good) and follow an easy path for about 1 kilometer to spot some epic deer from close up.

Every Tuesday from July to October between 10:00 and 11:00 you can visit the deer park with the owner. When you are luckily he will be feeding them and you can get up close to these massive animals. This is one of the best things to do in Alta Badia with kids.

Best day trips from Alta Badia

Alta Badia is not only a beautiful destination on its own, it is also a fantastic base for exploring more of the Dolomites and South Tyrol. Thanks to its central location, you can easily combine your stay with famous mountain passes, alpine lakes and some of the most beautiful villages in northern Italy.

If you have a car, there are several rewarding day trips from Alta Badia that fit perfectly into a summer itinerary in the Dolomites.

Lago di Carezza

My personal favorite day trip from Alta Badia is Lago di Carezza. This small mountain lake is one of the most photogenic places in the Dolomites and is famous for its unreal colors and beautiful reflections. I loved it so much that I wrote a full guide about it.

Check my Lago di Carezza travel guide for all my tips and how to get there.

Lago di Braies

Another famous excursion is Lago di Braies, one of the best known lakes in the Dolomites. It is one of those classic postcard spots in northern Italy and absolutely worth considering if you don't mind sharing the views with other travelers. If you go early in the morning, the experience is usually much better.

Cortina d'Ampezzo

If you want to combine mountain scenery with a stylish alpine town, then Cortina d'Ampezzo is a great option. Surrounded by dramatic peaks, Cortina is one of the most iconic destinations in the Dolomites and a very popular stop on a road trip through the region. There is a reason Cortina was the host village for the 2026 Winter Olympics!

Val Gardena and the Sella Passes

Another great idea is to simply use Alta Badia as a starting point for a scenic drive through the surrounding mountain passes. The roads around the Sella Group are spectacular and make it easy to combine viewpoints, short walks and mountain huts in one day. You can also head towards Val Gardena, another famous Dolomites valley known for its dramatic scenery and outdoor activities.

Merano

If you continue your trip through South Tyrol, the historic spa town of Merano is another fantastic destination worth visiting. It offers a completely different atmosphere from Alta Badia, with palm-lined promenades, elegant architecture and a mild climate. I stayed at the beautiful La Maiena Meran Resort, which is a great base for exploring the area.

Whether you are looking for famous lakes, scenic drives or charming towns, there are plenty of amazing places to visit near Alta Badia. That is exactly what makes Alta Badia such a strong base for a longer Dolomites road trip.

Hotel tip for Alta Badia: Natur Hotel Miraval

You don't need a 5 star hotel to wake up with incredible views of the Dolomites. I stayed in Natur Hotel Miraval and can only speak highly about it. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful, the views are magnificent and my room was very clean, modern and spacious. Oh forgot about the lovely breakfast and quality dinner.

The outdoor terrace in front of my bed was heavenly with the best views ever. There is also a wellness area with a sauna, a steam cabin and a relaxing area with outdoor hot tub with stunning views of the Dolomites.

On the day of check out I came back at around 18.00 to take a shower and that was not a problem. I had been sweating up on the mountain all day and I was offered to freshen up before my long trip back home. Thanks again for the great service!

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FAQ visiting Alta Badia in summer

Is Alta Badia worth visiting in summer?

Yes, Alta Badia is one of the most beautiful summer destinations in the Dolomites. The region offers spectacular alpine scenery, excellent hiking trails, traditional mountain huts and scenic gondola rides that bring you high into the mountains. During my visit I loved how easy it was to access incredible viewpoints and hiking trails directly from the villages.

What are the best things to do in Alta Badia in summer?

The best things to do in Alta Badia in summer include hiking in the Dolomites, cycling the famous Sellaronda mountain passes, visiting alpine lakes like Lake Boé, enjoying gourmet mountain hut lunches and exploring the charming villages of Corvara, San Cassiano and La Villa.

How many days do you need in Alta Badia?

Most travelers spend between 2 and 4 days in Alta Badia. This allows enough time to explore several hiking trails, visit mountain huts, ride the gondolas and enjoy the beautiful Dolomite landscapes. If you are planning multiple hikes or cycling routes you could easily spend a week here.

Which village is best to stay in Alta Badia?

The most popular villages to stay in Alta Badia are Corvara, San Cassiano and La Villa. Corvara is the largest village and a great base for exploring the region, while San Cassiano is known for its excellent restaurants and mountain scenery. La Villa offers a quieter atmosphere but still provides easy access to hiking trails and mountain lifts.

Can you visit Alta Badia without a car?

Yes, it is possible to visit Alta Badia without a car. The villages are connected by local buses and during summer many cable cars and gondolas provide easy access to hiking areas in the mountains. However, having a car gives you more flexibility if you want to explore other parts of the Dolomites.

When is the best time to visit Alta Badia?

The best time to visit Alta Badia for summer activities is between late June and mid September when the mountain lifts and alpine huts are open. July and August usually offer the most stable weather, while June and September are slightly quieter months for hiking.

Planning your trip to Alta Badia

If you are planning a summer trip to Alta Badia, make sure to also prepare a couple of practical things before arriving in the Dolomites.

Staying connected while traveling in Italy makes planning hikes, checking lift schedules and navigating the mountain roads much easier. Before my trip I usually arrange mobile data in advance. If you want to do the same you can read my guides about the best eSIM for Italy, the best prepaid SIM card for Italy or my guide about buying a SIM card at Milan Airport.

If you are planning to explore more of the Dolomites and South Tyrol region, there are also some incredible hotels worth checking out. I had a fantastic stay at Boutique Gourmet Hotel Orso Grigio, one of the most charming mountain hotels in the region.

Another unique hotel experience in South Tyrol is the historic Schloss Hotel Korb, a castle hotel with incredible views over the region.

I hope this guide with the best things to do in Alta Badia in summer helps you plan an unforgettable trip to the Dolomites.

Safe travels and enjoy!

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