There are places that cannot be explained with words, they can only be felt. For me, the Dolomites are one of those places. Towering mountains, snow-covered valleys, cold lights at dawn… a setting that not only inspires you but transforms you. In this article, I want to share my experience traveling to the Dolomites in winter, the creative process behind the new cinematic video I filmed, and a series of unique resources I’ve created so you can plan your dream trip to this paradise.
First, I’d like to share the video I made of the Dolomites so you can see how special this place truly is.
Why Are the Dolomites Such a Special Place?
The Dolomites aren’t just mountains. They are a place that envelops you and changes you. Every valley, every snow-capped peak, and every foggy sunrise conveys a feeling that’s hard to describe. It’s a mix of calm, respect for nature, and constant inspiration that drives you to create, explore, and feel.
For me, the Dolomites represent the kind of destination that leaves a mark. Not just because of their natural beauty, but because of what they awaken inside you. Returning here has been a way to reconnect with the “why” that we sometimes forget amid the fast pace of daily life.
If you love mountains, hiking, and connecting with nature… this is a place you absolutely have to visit.
When to Visit the Dolomites? Choose the Season Based on Your Travel Style
Before planning your trip to the Dolomites, it’s essential to decide which time of year you want to visit. Weather conditions change drastically with the seasons, and so do the available activities. There isn’t a single “best” time it all depends on the experience you’re seeking.
Summer (June, July, August)
This is the high season and probably the most popular time to visit. The Dolomites in summer offer:
- Mild weather and long days ideal for exploration.
- Accessible hiking trails, even in high mountain areas.
- Turquoise lakes, perfect for photography or simply enjoying the scenery.
- Open infrastructure: mountain huts, cable cars, and public transport fully operational.
Keep in mind that this is the busiest time, so booking accommodation in advance is recommended.
Winter (December to March)
A magical season if you love snow. The Dolomites in winter transform into a completely different setting:
- Ski resorts are open and well-equipped.
- Snowy landscapes perfect for filming, photography, or simply admiring.
- Towns and villages decorated with charming Christmas lights (especially in December).
However, many hiking trails are closed or inaccessible due to snow, and days are much shorter.
Autumn and Spring (September, October, April, May)
These are the shoulder seasons, perfect if you seek tranquility and want to avoid crowds. While not everything is operational, they have a lot to offer:
- Spring (April and May): Nature in transition, although many high trails remain snow-covered. Ideal for exploring lower valleys and enjoying the bloom.
- Autumn (September and October): A burst of colors in the forests, perfect for photography. Many trails remain accessible in September, but services start closing in October.
Important: During these seasons, many mountain huts, buses, and cable cars are closed, and some trails may require crampons or snowshoes. Always check trail conditions before heading out.
Useful Tip:
The weather in the Dolomites is very changeable, especially in spring and autumn. Always check the weather forecast and plan your activities with some flexibility.
If you want everything clearly laid out with interactive maps, monthly recommendations, and season-adapted hikes you can download the complete guide here:
Download Guide + Maps to Travel to the Dolomites
Dolomites in April: More Than a Destination, a State of Mind
On my last trip, I returned to the Dolomites in April. I needed it. Going back to the place where it all started to reconnect with the reason I began creating. April is a magical month in this region: snow still covers the highest peaks, but spring slowly awakens in the valleys. This blend of seasons creates unique landscapes that seem suspended between winter and spring.
In the mountain areas, temperatures ranged roughly between 0 and 5 degrees Celsius. Many high mountain routes were still impassable, and the lakes remained frozen. This might not appeal to everyone, but for me, it was an incredible experience—especially because we were completely alone.
Exploring the Dolomites in April is immersing yourself in a special state of mind. It’s not just a mountain trip but a deep connection with nature in transition, with the calm brought by the stillness of the thaw and the promise of new life. It’s a time to pause, breathe, and let creativity flow.
If you’ve ever thought about visiting the Dolomites in April, I invite you to do it despite its limitations. You won’t only find breathtaking landscapes and tranquility but live an intimate and authentic experience that you will hardly forget.
The gear I Used to Film the Video
This video was filmed using three key tools:
- DJI Air 3S: To me, it’s the best drone in terms of quality/price ratio today. Stability, image quality, D-Log M profiles, good dynamic range, solid battery life…
- Canon EOS R8 + RF 24-105mm lens: Lightweight, high quality, and with a very special cinematic touch.
- DJI Osmo Pocket 3: The surprise of the trip. Very small but performs great. The best part is that it’s very comfortable to carry and easy to pull out and start filming anytime.
Flying a Drone in the Dolomites: What You Need to Know
Before flying a drone in the Dolomites, you need to be familiar with Italian drone regulations. There are restricted zones, especially in natural parks and protected areas.
I’ve prepared an interactive map by country where you can check what’s allowed and what isn’t in each zone:
Tip: Always keep your drone registered, get liability insurance, and fly responsibly. The beauty of this place deserves respect.
LUTs and the Value of Color Grading
From time to time, you ask me about color grading in videos. Part of the result comes from using custom LUTs designed for D-Log M footage from the DJI Air 3S.
If you’re also looking to take your videos to the next visual level, I invite you to check out this article about the importance of color grading:
The Importance of Color Grading + LUTs and Cinematic Presets
Get Inspired for Your Next Trip
The Dolomites are one of those places that stay with you forever. It doesn’t matter if you’re a filmmaker, photographer, traveler, or simply a nature lover, there’s something magical here.
Here’s the direct link to the guide if you’re thinking about organizing your trip:
Complete Guide + Interactive Maps to Travel to the Dolomites
As always, thanks for being here. See you in the next story.