The Brenta Dolomites are one of the nine Dolomite groups recognised as World Heritage by UNESCO. Located in the Adamello Brenta Natural Park, they are part of the Rhaetian Alps and are situated in the western part of the province of Trento, between Val di Non, Val di Sole, Valli Giudicarie and Val Rendena. They are famous for their unique conformation, characterised by limestone spires and towers, making them a must-see destination for hikers and mountaineers.
The Brenta Dolomites are characterised by striking rock towers and particularly fascinating natural scenery. The group is divided into three parts: the central part, which is the most frequented, with access from Molveno and Madonna di Campiglio; the southern part, which is interesting from a naturalistic point of view and is frequented mainly in summer; and the northern part.
Eight are the peaks that exceed 3000 metres and many 2500 metres. Among the most famous are Cima Tosa (3,173 m), Cima Brenta (3,151 m), Crozzon di Brenta (3,118 m), Cima Ambiez (3,102 m), Torre di Brenta (3,008 m), Campanile Alto (2,937 m) and Cima Grosté (2,901 m).
The best hikes in the Brenta Dolomites
The Brenta Dolomites offer numerous routes for hikers and mountaineers, including:
- Via delle Bocchette: one of the most spectacular vie ferrate in the Dolomites, connecting several refuges and allowing you to cross the heart of the Dolomite group.
- Dolomiti di Brenta Trek: a ring-route divided into 11 stages, crossing the most striking landscapes of the Brenta Dolomites.
- Monte Peller tour: a panoramic route in the northern part of the group.
- Giro delle Malghe in Val di Tovel: ideal for those who want to discover the pastures and views of the valley.
- Pian della Nana and Val di Nana: an excursion into the wilderness.
- Malga Tuena and Brenta Settentrionale: perfect for an authentic experience among the alpine pastures.
- Malga Flavona: an excursion also suitable for families, with extraordinary views of the surrounding peaks.
The most beautiful lakes in the Brenta Dolomites
The Brenta Dolomites are not only a paradise for mountaineers and hikers, but also for lovers of alpine lakes, which add a special charm to this already extraordinary landscape. Among the best known and most beautiful lakes in the area are:
Lake Molveno: situated at the foot of the Brenta Dolomites, it is one of the largest and most picturesque lakes in Trentino, ideal for walks along its shores and for water activities.
Lake Tovel: famous for the red colour of its waters (a phenomenon that occurs during the summer), this lake is a natural symbol of the Adamello-Brenta Park and a place of great interest for hikers.
Lake Nambino: at an altitude of 1,768 metres, this alpine lake is easily reached from Madonna di Campiglio and is a perfect place for a walk in the countryside.
Lake Ritorto: located at 2,071 metres, it is connected to Lake Nambino and offers an evocative route through breathtaking mountain scenery.
Lago delle Malghette: a corner of tranquillity surrounded by woods and mountains, perfect for those seeking a regenerating break.
An unmissable itinerary for those who want to discover the lakes of the Brenta Dolomites is the Tour of the Five Lakes, which links Lake Nambino, Lake Ritorto, Lake Serodoli, Lake Nero and Lake Gelato. This circular route offers spectacular views of each lake and the surrounding scenery, and is one of the most popular with hikers for its natural beauty and the variety of landscapes it offers.
The Brenta Dolomites in winter
In winter, the Brenta Dolomites offer a wide range of activities for snow enthusiasts. Skiarea Campiglio Dolomiti di Brenta, with 150 km of slopes, is one of the most famous, with connections between Madonna di Campiglio, Folgarida, Marilleva and Pinzolo, perfect for skiers of all levels. For those seeking other options, the Skiarea Val di Sole offers slopes suitable for everyone, from beginners to experts, in one of the most fascinating valleys in Trentino. Not to be outdone, Skiarea Paganella is ideal for those who want to ski surrounded by breathtaking views, with perfect slopes for alpine skiing and snowboarding. In addition to skiing, the Brenta Dolomites are also perfect for those who love snowshoeing and ski mountaineering, with numerous itineraries that allow you to explore the mountain in a more intimate and adventurous way.
Brenta Dolomites: how to get there
There are 4 ways to reach the Brenta Dolomites:
- From the Paganella Plateau, from Molveno where you can easily reach the Pedrotti refuge
- From Val Rendena to Vallesinella, in the municipality of Madonna di Campiglio, or with the lifts to Passo Grosté, or from S. Antonio di Mavignola
- From the Giudicarie, in Val d'Ambiez from San Lorenzo in Banale from where you can reach the Agostini refuge and from Val d'Algone to reach the Dodici Apostoli refuge.
- From Val di Non: by car from Val di Tovel or from Cles to the Peller hut.
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