Little Dolomites Round

A cabrio tour in South Tyrol is an incomparable experience. Between mighty Dolomite peaks, tranquil pastures, and charming mountain villages unfolds a landscape that is perfect for a drive with the top down. The Little Dolomites Loop takes you on approximately 250 kilometers through some of the most beautiful regions of the country – from Bolzano via Lake Carezza and Canazei to the Marmolada, before returning to the South Tyrolean capital. It combines driving pleasure, culture, and breathtaking nature in an unforgettable cabrio trip.

Overview of the Route

The cabrio route starts and ends in Bolzano and leads over Lake Carezza and the Carezza Pass to Canazei, then continues over the Gardena Pass to Castelrotto, to the Seiser Alm, and finally to the Marmolada, before returning to Bolzano. It is a varied route that delights both sporty drivers and leisurely travelers. Along the way, numerous viewpoints, inns, and small walking paths invite you to experience the drive with all your senses.

First Stage: From Bolzano to Lake Carezza, over the Carezza Pass to Canazei

The starting point of the tour is Bolzano, where southern flair meets alpine scenery in Walther Square. Street cafés, cobblestones, and the mountain backdrop of the Dolomites create the perfect start to the day. With the top down, you leave the city and head into the Eggental Valley. The road winds through forests and rocks, an ideal way to set the mood for the upcoming elevation gain.

Soon you reach Lake Carezza – a magical place whose turquoise waters shimmer in the sun. Nearby, small hiking trails and cozy inns invite you to stop for a break. From here, the road continues over the Carezza Pass. The serpentine roads and the wide view of the Latemar and Rosengarten groups make this section a highlight of any cabrio tour in South Tyrol. Once you arrive at the top, it is worth stopping briefly to take in the panoramas.

The drive continues into the Fassa Valley towards Canazei. The village center, with its colorful houses and small shops, radiates a charming mix of alpine tradition and Italian joie de vivre. In one of the cafés, you can wonderfully enjoy the atmosphere – while in the background, the Marmolada, the queen of the Dolomites, watches over the valleys. This stretch is pure delight for those who love winding roads and expansive views – a true cabrio road trip between sky and rock.

Second Stage: From the Gardena Pass over Castelrotto and the Seiser Alm to the Marmolada and back to Bolzano

Behind Canazei, the road winds up to the Gardena Pass, one of the most famous passes in the Dolomites. Curve by curve, the view of the surrounding rocks opens up – a paradise for drivers who enjoy being actively behind the wheel. From here, the cabrio route leads down into the Gröden Valley and on to Castelrotto, one of the most beautiful villages in South Tyrol. In the old town, you can close the roof and experience the true South Tyrolean flair while strolling through the streets.

Not far away lies the Seiser Alm – the largest high plateau in Europe. The expansive alpine meadows and the panorama of the Dolomites are simply breathtaking. Nearby, there are numerous spots to stop for a meal that serves homemade dumplings or polenta – perfect for a break during your day of driving.

The cabrio route continues along small mountain roads towards the Marmolada. The mighty glacier looms over the valleys, and the view from the viewpoints is spectacular. Up here, you can feel why this region is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Afterward, it’s back towards Bolzano – a relaxed descent that offers once again many beautiful panoramas.

Back in the city, the loop concludes again at Walther Square. Those who wish can end the day with a glass of South Tyrolean wine or an espresso and reflect on the drive. This cabrio journey showcases the Dolomites in all their diversity – from alpine grandeur to Mediterranean lightness.

Conclusion – The Little Dolomites Loop

The Little Dolomites Loop is an ideal mix of winding fun, mountain panoramas, and cultural flair. On this cabrio tour, spectacular passes, tranquil valleys, and charming places alternate. It offers the best that a cabrio tour in South Tyrol promises: freedom, nature, and enjoyment. Anyone who has driven through this landscape with the top down knows that the Dolomites are not just a destination, but a feeling – and that it is best experienced with a convertible.