Winter Without Skiing: What You Can Still Do in the Dolomites
The Dolomites are often marketed as a winter ski destination but skiing is only one small part of what makes this region special. If you don’t ski (or simply don’t want a ski-focused trip), winter in the Dolomites can still be incredibly rewarding, especially in February.
This guide shows what you can still do in the Dolomites in winter without skiing, from cable cars and scenic walks to spa days and villages.
What You Can Do in the Dolomites in Winter Without Skiing
Take Cable Cars for Panoramic Views
Many cable cars operate throughout winter and don’t require skis at all. They’re one of the easiest ways to experience the scale of the Dolomites.
From the top, you’ll find:
Wide panoramic viewpoints
Restaurants with terraces overlooking snowy peaks
Short, groomed walking paths
You get the scenery without the effort or the pressure.
Walk Snowy Valley Paths (No Hiking Experience Needed)
Not all winter walking is “hiking.” Many valleys maintain flat, wide paths that are perfect for relaxed winter walks.
These routes are:
Well-marked and maintained
Often cleared or compacted
Ideal for boots (not technical gear)
They’re peaceful, scenic, and accessible even if you’ve never done winter walking before.
Spend Afternoons at Spa Hotels
Winter is peak spa season in the Dolomites. Many hotels are designed for guests who want to slow down rather than ski.
Expect:
Heated outdoor pools with mountain views
Saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas
Quiet afternoons when skiers are on the slopes
This is where winter without skiing really shines.
Explore Villages, Cafés, and Local Life
Winter villages feel calmer and more intimate. You can wander through towns like Ortisei, Corvara, or San Candido, pop into cafés, browse small shops, and enjoy long lunches without rushing.
It’s less about ticking sights off a list and more about atmosphere.
Scenic Winter Drives & Easy Day Trips
Winter roads in the Dolomites are well maintained, and driving between valleys is often part of the experience.
A typical day might include:
A scenic drive over a mountain pass
Lunch in a different valley
A short walk or cable car ride
Back to the hotel for spa time
No skis required.
Practical Tips for Non-Skiers in Winter
Bring proper winter boots with grip
Plan around shorter daylight hours
Check cable car operating days in advance
Base yourself somewhere walkable and well connected
Who This Trip Is Perfect For
Non-skiers traveling with skiers
Couples seeking a slower winter escape
Travelers who want scenery without physical strain
Anyone curious about the Dolomites beyond skiing
Winter without skiing isn’t a compromise, it’s simply a different (and often calmer) way to experience the Dolomites.
I regularly plan winter Dolomites trips for non-skiers and focus on activities that work regardless of snow conditions.
