The Dobbiaco Cortina Cycle Path between nature and history

We went to Lake Dobbiaco because it was recommended. I must say, the suggestion was spot on. It's considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the Alps, nestled among forests and Dolomite peaks.

In summer, the lake offers various activities. You can rent a boat right there and enjoy a short trip on the water. The nature trail around the lake lets you spend a day outdoors.

But we didn't just walk. We decided to make the day more dynamic by biking the Dobbiaco-Cortina trail. We rented the bikes here. Let me share my impressions.

The Cortina-Dobbiaco Cycle Path is a beautiful route in the Dolomites. It connects Cortina d'Ampezzo to Dobbiaco, passing through Val Pusteria.

The Dolomites are stunning in summer too. If you want to lose some weight and stress, a nice bike ride is perfect.

Though, after a good ride, I can't stick to a diet.

The route starts in Cortina's center. It connects to the bike path from Calalzo di Cadore. After a short paved section, it turns into a gravel path. This makes it great for mountain bikes, gravel bikes, and e-bikes.

Heading from Cortina to Dobbiaco, you face a steady climb. It's about 13 km to Passo Cimabanche, around 1500 meters high. From there, you descend towards Lago di Landro, a scenic spot. Then, continue slightly downhill to Dobbiaco, about 1200 meters high. Many cyclists extend to nearby San Candido, just a few more kilometers from Dobbiaco, for an even more stunning ride.

The return follows the same path: climb back from Dobbiaco (or San Candido) to Passo Cimabanche, then descend to Cortina. The round trip from Dobbiaco to Cortina is about 55 km. Starting and ending in Cortina is around 50 km. The total elevation change is moderate, spread over long, steady climbs, especially from Dobbiaco to Cortina.

The surface is all gravel, with no significant asphalt after the short start. This makes it a bit tougher, especially climbing from Lago di Landro to Passo Cimabanche. The Cortina-Dobbiaco direction is more challenging uphill. Most cyclists use e-bikes for easier ascents. But, traditional MTB riders with good training also tackle it, handling the gentle but long climbs.

Technically, the route is easy, with no major difficulties. The surface is smooth, and slopes are never too steep. It's suitable for a wide audience, including families. However, for kids, consider the total length carefully (about 30 km one way).

The path is mostly through woods, with views of streams, Lago di Landro, and surrounding Dolomite peaks. There are many scenic spots, making the bike path spectacular year-round. Many find it superior to other local routes, like San Candido-Lienz, due to its authentic Dolomite setting and breathtaking views.