Falzarego and Valparola: the big Dolomites loop

The loop at a glance

From Val Gardena you cross Passo Gardena to Corvara, Campolongo to Arabba and climb through Livinallongo to the Falzarego. The short crossing over the Valparola brings you back to Alta Badia. From Brixen that adds up to about 180 to 200 kilometres – too much for a relaxed day on the day package, ideal for two days or a weekend with a night in Alta Badia or Cortina.

The route

1. Brixen – Val Gardena – Passo Gardena: Through Val Gardena and over Passo Gardena (2,121 m) to Corvara.
2. Passo Campolongo (1,875 m): From Corvara over to Arabba.
3. Livinallongo – Passo Falzarego (2,105 m): From Arabba towards Andraz and up to the Falzarego in sweeping bends. The Lagazuoi cable car leaves from the pass.
4. Passo Valparola (2,192 m): The short crossing to Alta Badia, past the First World War museum at Forte Tre Sassi.
5. San Cassiano – Corvara: Down to San Cassiano and back to Corvara, then over Passo Gardena to Val Gardena – or through Val Badia to the Puster Valley.

Option: Passo Giau

From the Falzarego towards Cortina as far as Pocol, then over Passo Giau (2,236 m) to Selva di Cadore and via Colle Santa Lucia back towards Andraz. The Giau is one of the most spectacular passes in the Dolomites – allow extra kilometres and time.

Tips for the drive

• Two days instead of one. With a night in Alta Badia or Cortina you drive the passes at the best time of day.
• Watch the kilometres. With the Giau you'll go beyond 200 km – extra kilometres cost €3.00 per km.
• Fill up in the valley. Not every mountain petrol station sells Super Plus 100 – top up before the loop.
• Within the permitted area. Falzarego, Giau and Cortina are in the province of Belluno – inside the permitted area.

Routes are non-binding recommendations. Please check road conditions, closures and weather before you set off. Permitted area: South Tyrol, Trentino and the province of Belluno.

Frequently asked questions