Lunga Via delle Dolomiti

Country: Italy

The Lunga Via delle Dolomiti is one of Europe’s most scenic rail trails, following the route of the former Dolomites Railway, built during the First World War and decommissioned in 1964. The 49-km greenway runs from Passo Cimabanche (or Dobbiaco/Toblach, depending on the itinerary) to Calalzo di Cadore, passing through Cortina d’Ampezzo and the picturesque villages of Cadore. Surrounded by the UNESCO-listed Dolomites, the route offers spectacular mountain scenery while preserving the railway’s historic stations, tunnels, bridges, and other engineering heritage.

The greenway offers a gentle, mostly downhill ride suitable for cyclists of all abilities. Around 70% of the surface is paved and 30% is compact gravel, making it ideal for both cycling and walking. Along the route, visitors enjoy spectacular views of iconic Dolomite peaks, including the Tofane, Pelmo, Sorapiss, Antelao, and the Marmarole range, while travelling through forests, alpine valleys, historic railway tunnels, and viaducts.

More than just a cycling route, the trail is a journey through the cultural heritage of the Dolomites. It connects historic mountain villages, Gothic churches, museums, and the birthplace of the Renaissance painter Titian in Pieve di Cadore, while celebrating the legacy of the former railway that once linked Veneto with South Tyrol. Integrated train-and-bike and bus-and-bike services make the route easily accessible and support sustainable tourism.

The greenway is well integrated with sustainable transport, offering rail, bus-and-bike services, bicycle rental, and links to longer cycling routes extending north towards Austria and south towards Venice. As one of Italy’s flagship examples of railway-to-greenway conversion, the Lunga Via delle Dolomiti promotes active mobility, heritage conservation, and sustainable tourism while showcasing the unique natural and cultural landscapes of the Dolomites.