Easter in the Dolomites: spring on the snow
At Easter the Dolomites are split in two. Up high the snow still lies and the last skiers are out; down in the valleys the meadows are already flowering and church bells ring out. It's a strange, in-between season, and that's exactly why I love it. Easter in the Dolomites offers quiet, low prices and photos you can't take in summer.
What to expect in spring
April is the "shoulder season" in the Dolomites. The ski resorts mostly close around Easter (depending on when it falls), and the summer season only starts in June. Many huts and lifts are closed, and some hotels take their holidays. On the other hand: no crowds, low accommodation prices and a landscape covered in snow under the spring sun.
- Ortisei – Val Gardena 46.575° N, 11.672° E
- Seceda – ridges above Val Gardena 46.597° N, 11.724° E
- Alpe di Siusi – snowy meadows 46.540° N, 11.620° E
- Lago di Braies – a lake with the last of the ice 46.694° N, 12.085° E
- Lago di Misurina – a lake near Tre Cime 46.583° N, 12.255° E
Alpe di Siusi on the snow
Europe's largest alpine meadow is under snow in spring. Wooden hay barns stick out of the snowfields, and behind them rise the Langkofel and Plattkofel. At sunset the mountains turn orange and the snow pink, as in the cover photo. A gondola goes up to Alpe di Siusi from Seis/Siusi; the road is restricted for cars during the day.
Seceda
The Seceda ridges with the sharp Geisler/Odle peaks are an icon of the Dolomites. The lift from Ortisei runs in spring depending on the snow: sometimes until Easter, then there's a break until June. If it's running, go up for sunset.
Lago di Braies
In spring Lago di Braies is often still frozen or full of floating ice. Without the boats and the crowds it looks completely different from summer. Photos with the ice and the snowy Croda del Becco behind are magical. More about Braies in my very first solo trip in Europe.
Ski touring at Easter
For ski tourers, spring is ideal. Firn (spring snow) is firm in the morning and around midday softens into a perfect surface for skiing down. Popular tours are around Passo Gardena, Passo Sella and in the Fanes. Ski touring is my great love: more in winter activities in Arctic Norway.
Easter traditions
South Tyrol is bilingual (German and Italian), and both sides keep their Easter traditions here. On the tables are dyed eggs, lambs made of dough and sweet bread. On Sunday people go to church and then to lunch at a mountain hut, if it's open.
More articles about the Dolomites: autumn in the Dolomites and the Dolomites again and again.
Faq
Are the lifts in the Dolomites open at Easter?
The ski resorts mostly close around Easter. The summer lifts only start running in May and June. Check for your specific dates.
Is there snow in the Dolomites in April?
Higher up, yes; in the valleys it's usually spring already. On hikes, expect snow above 1,800–2,000 metres.
Are the Dolomites worth it in spring?
Yes, if you want quiet, low prices and snowy mountains. If you want to walk the high trails and sleep in huts, go in summer.
