Let’s talk real talk for a second. When you’re dreaming of that jaw-dropping elopement spot in the Dolomites, you’re probably picturing wide-open mountain views, wildflower meadows, maybe a dramatic cliff edge or a turquoise lake. But before diving into your dream location, there’s one thing I always share with my couples:
The Elopement Location Triangle
When planning your elopement, you usually get two out of three of these:
- Epic views
- Privacy
- Easy access
But never all three at once.
If a place has epic views and is easy to reach, it’s likely to be crowded (hello, Instagram-famous spots).
If a place has epic views and privacy, it probably requires a hike, cable car, or even a helicopter.
If a place is private and easy to get to, you’re probably not getting those iconic Dolomites backdrops.
That’s why working with a local expert (👋 hi, that’s me!) can make all the difference. I know when and how to access even the most visited spots without the crowds. And yes — I also know the hidden gems. The ones you won’t find on Google. The ones I would never publish here, because keeping them secret is the only way to protect their magic.
But let’s get into the five iconic locations I can tell you about — the ones that are stunning, relatively easily accessible, and absolutely worth considering for your Dolomites elopement.
1. Alpe di Siusi – Sunrise Over the World’s Largest Alpine Meadow
Imagine starting your elopement day surrounded by rolling green meadows, wooden huts, and the jagged peaks in the distance. That’s Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm). It’s one of the most iconic (and photogenic) places in the Dolomites.
- Accessibility: Easy — you can access it by car, cable car or stay overnight in a mountain hut or hotel within the plateau.
- Views: Unforgettable. Especially at sunrise, when the light hits the peaks and the meadows glow golden.
- Privacy: Limited — this area is popular with hikers and tourists, especially during the day. But with sunrise elopements, you can have peaceful moments nearly all to yourself. Also, the area is quite big and if you go further away from the parking lot, you can get some more privacy.
- Season: Alpe di Siusi is accessible all year round.
💡 Pro tip: Motorized vehicles are restricted during the day, so timing and accommodation choices matter here.
2. Seceda – The Famous Ridge That Feels Like the Edge of the World
Seceda is the spot with those dramatic vertical ridges you’ve probably seen on postcards. It’s wild, cinematic, and truly awe-inspiring.
- Accessibility: Moderate — take a cable car from Ortisei, then walk a bit (around 20–30 mins on an easy trail).
- Views: Iconic and absolutely epic — it feels like you’re standing at the edge of the earth.
- Privacy: It gets busy during midday, but if you go right when the first cable car opens or hike up for sunrise, you can beat the crowds.
- Season: Seceda’s cable car is working almost all year round
💡 Pro tip: The ridge is way windier and colder than it looks. Bring layers — even in summer!
3. Cadini di Misurina – A Hidden-Looking Spot with a Big Personality
This is the dramatic spiky range that’s become more famous in recent years, especially for its photo-friendly narrow trail that looks like it floats above the mountains.
- Accessibility: Moderate — it’s about a 30-minute hike from Rifugio Auronzo, but the path is straightforward.
- Views: Wild, raw, and epic. These peaks look almost otherworldly.
- Privacy: Less known than Tre Cime, but it’s gaining popularity. Best visited at sunset on weekdays or early in the morning.
- Season: Cadini di Misurina view point is usually accessed by driving to the parking lot with a car or bus. This road leading to the parking lot is closed November-May due to snow conditions. It is possible to hike up (approximately 7km / 4.4miles), but be prepared and bring gear to be able to access it!
💡 Note: While the narrow trail looks intense in photos, it’s actually safe when you approach it with care.
4. Lake Braies (Lago di Braies) – The Fairytale Mountain Lake
A crystal-clear emerald lake surrounded by towering cliffs, pine forests, and charming rowboats — Lake Braies is every romantic’s dream. It’s also wildly popular (thanks, Instagram).
- Accessibility: Super easy — it’s right off the parking lot.
- Views: Picture-perfect from every angle. There’s a wooden boathouse and a trail that circles the lake.
- Privacy: Almost none unless you’re there before sunrise or outside high season (May/June or October).
- Season: Accessible all year round. In winter the lake is frozen and it possible to walk or ice skate on the lake
💡 Rowboats are only available during certain months — if you want that rowboat moment, plan your timing right. If you want to have a private experience (ceremony on the docks, boat ride so that there are no other boats on the lake) early in the morning, they offer it and it costs around 450€.
5. Tre Cime di Lavaredo – The Icon of the Dolomites
These three towering peaks are probably the most famous formation in the Dolomites — and for good reason. The landscape here is vast, open, and incredibly cinematic.
- Accessibility: Moderate — you can drive up to Rifugio Auronzo (for a fee) and walk on well-maintained trails to various viewpoints.
- Views: Wild and wide — rocky cliffs, valleys, and those unmistakable peaks.
- Privacy: Not much, especially in summer. But there are many side trails where you can find secluded moments away from the main path.
- Season: Tre Cime is usually accessed by driving to the parking lot with a car or bus. This road leading to the parking lot is closed November-May due to snow conditions. It is possible to hike up (approximately 7km / 4.4miles), but be prepared and bring gear to be able to access it!
💡 Pro tip: Add a short hike to lesser-known viewpoints around Tre Cime to get privacy and those epic backdrops.
So… Which One Should You Choose for our Dolomites Elopement?
That depends on what matters most to you:
- Do you want a relaxed elopement day without hiking?
- Or would you trade some comfort for a bit more privacy and a breathtaking viewpoint?
- Are you early risers ready for sunrise magic, or slow-morning people who love a golden sunset?
These iconic spots are popular for a reason — they’re epically beautiful. But with the right timing, some local tips, and a bit of creativity, you can still have a personal and intimate elopement experience even in the most famous places.
P.S. Some of the locations are quite close to each other. This means you are able to visit multiple epic locations within your elopement day!
And if you’re craving something off-the-beaten-path with a touch more seclusion? I’ve got you. I know hidden spots that I only share with my couples. Places that are quiet, breathtaking, and truly unforgettable — without needing a 5-hour hike or a helicopter (unless you’re into that, too 😉).
Planning an Elopement in the Dolomites?
I help couples craft elopement days that are so much more than just pretty photos. Whether it’s an easy-access sunrise ceremony at Alpe di Siusi with a sunset at Seceda or a hiking adventure to a secret spot, I’m here to help you every step of the way.
Other blog posts you might be interested in:
5 reasons to elope in the Dolomites
Helena and Keio winter vow renewal in the Dolomites
Kaisa and Laur full day elopement at lake Garda
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