Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint: A Scenic Dolomites Hike

Cadini di Misurina, also known as Ciadìs de Meśorìna in the Ladin language, refers to a group of mountains in the eastern part of the Dolomites, a mountain range in northern Italy. These striking peaks are situated within the Province of Belluno in the Veneto region of Italy. The Cadini di Misurina region is renowned for its stunning alpine landscapes and offers numerous outdoor recreational opportunities for nature enthusiasts, including hiking and climbing.

How to get to Cadini di Misurina?

The most popular ways to reach Cadini di Misurina are by car, public transportation, or even on two wheels, be it a bicycle or a motorbike.

BY CAR: Traveling by car, either your own or a rental, is arguably the most convenient option. While it might be a bit heavier on your wallet, it offers unparalleled freedom. You can craft your schedule, ensuring you’re not at the mercy of others. The only potential downside could be navigating narrow roads or occasionally sharing the route with less experienced drivers.

BY BUS: On the flip side, hopping on a bus provides an eco-friendly, budget-conscious, and hassle-free alternative. The only trade-off here is to adhere to fixed schedules, but it’s a small price for the environment and your wallet. You can easily find the bus routes from your departure city by visiting this website. Enter your point of origin and set your destination as “Auronzo di Cadore, Rifugio Auronzo.” It’s a straightforward way to reach this beautiful destination.

Where does the Cadini di Misurina trailhead begin and where to park?

The starting point for the Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint trail is conveniently located at Rifugio Auronzo, providing easy parking and access for your hike. While alternative trailheads exist, they tend to be longer and more challenging. The route from Rifugio Auronzo offers a relatively simple yet awe-inspiring hike. However, for the adventurous or those on a budget, you can opt to park at Lake Antorno to bypass the toll. I’ll outline both paid and free parking options so you can choose the one that suits you best.

Parking options:

Paid parking: Rifugio Auronzo

The parking area is common for both the Cadini di Misurina and Tre Cime hikes. There are 700 spaces available, and once it reaches full capacity, the entrance gate is closed. Arriving early is advisable to secure a spot.

Parking prices at the Rifugio Auronzo parking lot:

Cars: 30 EUR | Motorbikes: 20 EUR | Campers: 45 EUR | BUS: up to 30 persons/more than 30 persons: 60 EUR/120 EUR

Opening times: From late May to late October the toll road is accessible, subject to weather and snow conditions.

Free parking: Lake Antorno

You’ll find two complimentary parking areas (here and here) in close proximity to Lake Antorno. When you’ve parked, follow the paved road for a few hundred meters toward the Tre Cime Parking lot. Before you reach the gate, watch for a trail on your right. This path will lead you to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint.

Cadini di Misurina viewpoint

After parking, you can kick off your hike, whether it’s from the parking lot, Rifugio Auronzo, or Lake Antorno.

Cadini di Misurina hike details from Rifugio Auronzo (out-and-back):

You can begin your hike either from Rifugio Auronzo or the parking lot. The trail to follow is number 117. Many paths converge at this point, so you have various starting points. Just avoid the Tre Cime trail; you should head in the opposite direction.

However, you can already spot the famous peaks from the parking lots.

I opted for the left path initially, later returning via the alternative route. The left path provides more scenic views, although it’s not suitable for those with a fear of heights.

Hike details from Lake Antorno to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint (out-and-back):

Once you’ve parked your vehicle, take a leisurely stroll along the paved road for a few hundred meters in the direction of the Tre Cime Parking lot. Keep an eye out for a trail on your right just before reaching the gate. This trail, marked as Trail 101, leads you in the direction of Rifugio Auronzo.

The trail goes through a larch forest, ascending gently. As you clear the tree line, you’ll spot Rifugio Auronzo. At Val del Ciadin de Longares, choose to hike to Rifugio Auronzo via Trail 101 or take the shorter route to the viewpoint via Forcella Longeres saddle, following Trail 117.

Best time to visit this Dolomite’s gem

For a delightful visit, choose the warmer months, typically spanning from late spring to early autumn, which is approximately from May to early October. During this period, you can expect the best hiking weather and trail conditions. Yet, remember that mountain weather can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to check local forecasts and trail conditions before your journey.

To escape the larger crowds, especially in the peak summer months of July and August, plan your visit during the shoulder seasons. These months offer a more serene experience. As for the optimal hours, early mornings and late afternoons are your best bet. This is when the landscape basks in soft, enchanting light, and you’ll find fewer fellow adventurers, creating a tranquil atmosphere for your exploration.

In summary, Cadini di Misurina beckons with its breathtaking viewpoint, accessible via diverse trails. Discover the Dolomites’ stunning beauty from this enchanting location, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and hikers.