Autumn is perhaps the most magical season to explore the mountains. While many people immediately think of countries like Austria or Switzerland, the Dolomites in Northern Italy are one of the best locations for autumn photography in Europe. The combination of rugged mountain peaks, golden larches, and tranquil mountain lakes makes this UNESCO World Heritage Site truly unique.
It’s in October and November that the region comes alive with warm tones that beautifully contrast with the grey rock faces and often the first snow on the peaks. Where in summer you might be walking shoulder to shoulder with crowds, autumn brings back the tranquility. This makes it not only a paradise for hikers, but also a dream for photographers who want to capture nature’s beauty in complete silence.
In this article, you’ll discover why the Dolomites are the autumn backdrop you don’t want to miss, which locations you absolutely must visit, and practical tips for travel and photography.
Why autumn is so special in the Dolomites
The Dolomites are impressive year-round, but in autumn the atmosphere changes completely. The forests turn deep orange and golden yellow, especially the larches that shed their needles in October. These warm tones form a beautiful contrast with the cool rock faces and the often snow-capped peaks. For photographers, this is a unique opportunity: the landscape looks almost painted by nature itself.
Besides the spectacular colours, the peace and quiet is perhaps the biggest reason to visit during this season. Where in July and August long queues form at famous spots like Lago di Braies or Tre Cime di Lavaredo, in October you can often walk around in complete silence. This means not only more space for photography, but also a much more intimate nature experience.
The weather also plays a role. The summer heat is over, but the days are often still clear and pleasant for hiking. The lower position of the sun also provides softer light throughout the day – ideal for landscape photography. The golden hour feels longer and more intense, giving you many more opportunities to capture the Dolomites at their most beautiful.
The best spots for autumn photography in the Dolomites
The Dolomites have countless beautiful locations. Yet there are some places that are extra special in autumn and that I want to share with you.
1. Seiser Alm (Alpe di Siusi)
Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow is a fairy-tale setting in autumn. The alm transforms into a tapestry of warm tones, with wooden huts contrasting against the golden larches and the jagged peaks of the Sassolungo.
Early in the morning you can often see wisps of mist lingering between the hills – ideal for dreamy photos.
Want to know more about Seiser Alm? Read my complete guide to Seiser Alm.
2. Tre Cime di Lavaredo
Perhaps the most famous peaks of the Dolomites, and much quieter in autumn than in summer. The lower sun provides beautiful raking light on the rock faces. Especially at sunset, the landscape turns intensely orange and red. With the first snowfall in the background, this produces dramatic and unique images.
The road to the car park takes you through beautifully coloured forests. Take time to stop along the way!
Want to know more about Tre Cime di Lavaredo? Read my complete guide to Tre Cime.
Look around and don’t focus only on Tre Cime itself. There are incredibly beautiful shots to be made in the wider surroundings!
3. Lago di Braies
This mountain lake is a classic and often overcrowded in summer. In October it becomes quieter and the water reflects the autumn colours of the surrounding forests. Renting a boat or simply walking along the shore gives you countless photo opportunities. Especially early in the morning, when the lake is mirror-smooth, the images are magical.
Want to know more about Lago di Braies? Read my complete guide to Lago di Braies.
Arrive early to claim the best spot. And don’t forget to look for other angles beyond the classic boathouse with rowing boats – there are so many details you don’t want to miss.
4. Lago Federa
This smaller mountain lake is one of the hidden gems of the Dolomites. It lies tucked away in the forests and is surrounded by larches that turn deep golden yellow in October. The water reflects the colours and the Croda da Lago mountain, creating almost painterly photographs. The hiking route to get there is also beautiful – around every bend awaits another new view.
You can reach the lake in several ways. On foot is the most beautiful option, but choose your route carefully and keep an eye on time and weather.
Want to know more about Lago Federa? Read my complete guide to Lago Federa.
5. Val di Funes
The Funes valley, with the famous little church of Santa Maddalena, is perhaps at its most beautiful in autumn. The surrounding forests turn intense colours and form a perfect contrast with the jagged Odle mountains. Especially during sunset, when the light falls softly over the valley, this produces iconic images that you won’t find anywhere else in Europe.
Want to know more about Val di Funes? Read my complete guide to Val di Funes.
Photography tips for autumn in the Dolomites
Autumn in the Dolomites offers landscape photographers unique conditions, but also requires some preparation. With these tips, you’ll get the most out of your time in the mountains.
1. Make the most of golden hour
In October and November the days are shorter, which means sunrise and sunset occur at more convenient times. The soft light enhances the warm autumn colours and gives your landscapes an almost painterly quality. But even outside golden hour the Dolomites are beautiful – the sun is lower and the weather is often more dramatic than in summer. Personally, I prefer some clouds and atmosphere to clear blue skies.
2. Use contrasts
Combine the brightly coloured larches with the cool grey tones of the rock faces or the first snow on the peaks. This contrast makes your photos more powerful and adds depth to your compositions.
3. Don’t forget the reflections
Lakes like Lago di Braies and Lago Federa are often mirror-smooth in the morning. Use this to create double layers in your composition, with the autumn colours beautifully reflected in the water.
4. Bring a tripod
Light can fade quickly in autumn, especially in valleys or forests. With a tripod you can use longer shutter speeds and play with movement in water or mist. A tripod also ensures sharp photos and is essential for panoramas. Don’t hesitate when packing – the tripod comes along.
5. Bring all your lenses
However tempting it is to leave that heavy telephoto at home: bring it. Use it to zoom in on mountain peaks, larches and details you miss with the naked eye. My approach is usually: start with the wide environment using panoramas, then look for compositions with foreground and background, and finally zoom in on details with the telephoto. But do head out with a clear goal in mind – it’s easy to become overwhelmed by all the possibilities.
6. Be prepared for cold
Even if it’s still pleasant during the day, temperatures can drop significantly in the morning and evening. Warm clothing, gloves and a thermos flask make long photo sessions much more comfortable. Rain gear is also essential – a rain shower is certainly not uncommon in autumn.
7. Experiment with drone photography
If you have a drone (and follow the local regulations), autumn offers an extra dimension. From above you really see how forests, mountain lakes and peaks together form a colourful mosaic. But be mindful of nature and the people enjoying the peace and quiet.
Practical travel tips for autumn in the Dolomites
Autumn is perhaps the most beautiful season in the Dolomites, but there are a few things to keep in mind when planning your trip.
Best period
The autumn colours usually peak from mid-October to early November. This is the ideal period to photograph the golden larches and soft light. Early October can also be beautiful, but some forests may still be green and it can still be quite busy.
Weather and conditions
The weather in autumn is often more stable than in summer, with clear days and less chance of heavy thunderstorms. However, conditions in the mountains can change quickly, so always check the forecast before heading out. Keep in mind that temperatures at night often approach freezing. Prepare well with enough clothing, water and food. Sturdy hiking boots are truly essential – the paths can become very slippery when it rains.
Accessibility and facilities
Many cable cars and mountain huts close after summer season, often around the end of September. This means you’ll more often need to hike yourself to reach the most beautiful spots. Bring good hiking boots, enough food and water, and a headlamp for the way back – it gets dark early in autumn. Invest in a good lamp with long battery life; it’s really worth it.
Peace and space
One of the biggest advantages of autumn is that the crowds have gone. Roads are quieter, parking spots are easier to find and the hiking trails feel much more intimate. This gives you the chance to take photos without disturbing crowds, and to truly experience the silence of the mountains.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for autumn photos in the Dolomites?
Mid-October to early November is ideal. That’s when the larches are at their most beautiful and the summer crowds have left.
How busy is it in October in the Dolomites?
Much quieter than in summer. Popular spots like Lago di Braies and Tre Cime are still visited, but you have more space and peace than in July or August.
Are all mountain huts and cable cars open in autumn?
No, many facilities close at the end of September. Plan your routes carefully and check in advance whether huts are open.
What should I bring for autumn photography in the Dolomites?
Warm clothing (layers), sturdy hiking boots, tripod, various lenses, rain gear, headlamp, and enough water and snacks.
Capturing autumn in the Dolomites
Autumn makes the Dolomites one of the most beautiful photography locations in Europe. Warm colours, peace on the trails and soft light create images you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a longer journey, this season offers you the chance to capture landscapes that are truly unique.
Want more than just inspiration? In my book Dolomites – A Journey Through Breathtaking Heights I combine images of the most famous and hidden spots with QR codes that give you direct access to coordinates, hiking routes, weather information and golden hour times. So you have not only a beautiful photo book, but also a practical travel guide to help you create your own perfect autumn photos.
👉 Discover the book here: Dolomites – A Journey Through Breathtaking Heights
Looking for art for your wall? Check out this fine art print with golden larches against a mountain wall in the Dolomites.
More inspiration
Pictures speak louder than words:
Useful links
More information about the Dolomites and planning your trip:
- UNESCO – Dolomites World Heritage – Background on why the Dolomites are unique
- Südtirol Info – Official tourism site with travel information and hiking routes
- Dolomiti.org – Overview of hiking areas and mountain huts
- MeteoBlue – Detailed weather forecasts for the Dolomites
- Alpenverein (DAV) – Current information on hiking routes and conditions