No, we can't switch it on or off. Yes, it's real. It's true - the phenomenon of the ‘Burning Dolomites’ is actually too good to be true. But we promise you: This intense glow of autumn nature and the deep red glow of the Dolomites in the last sunlight of an autumn day is totally real. Today we answer the most frequently asked questions about the spectacle of the autumnal Enrosadira with a little ‘Dolomite glow FAQ’: 

 

What does the term ‘Burning Dolomites’ actually mean? 

When nature turns from green to yellow, red, brown and all shades in between in early autumn and the otherwise white Dolomites begin to ‘glow’ at sunset, it looks for a brief, magical moment as if the mountains are ‘burning’. 

 

What is the difference between Enrosadira and Burning Dolomites? 

The phenomenon of the Enrosadira (Ladin for turning pink) occurs all year round in Val Gardena. When the colours of nature are added in autumn, the visual effect is intensified and we speak of the burning dolomites. 

 

When is the best time to admire the Burning Dolomites? 

In short: Between late summer and early winter, i.e. between the beginning of September and the beginning of November. You can find the current sunset times here. 

 

Where are the burning dolomites most beautiful?

You can enjoy particularly spectacular views from the ‘Sëurasas’ viewing terrace (moderately difficult hike, approx. 3 hours) and on the Juac-Alm (challenging hike, approx. 5 hours). You can experience both hikes together with the guides from Val Gardena Active. You can find all the information here. 

 

Is it true that there is a magical fairy tale behind the Enrosadira?  
Yes, and it goes like this: a long, long time ago, the dwarf king Laurin lived in the Dolomites. There was only one thing he lacked for happiness: a mate. When the king of the neighbouring lands threw a party and forgot to invite Laurin, he grabbed his magic belt, which could make him invisible, and sneaked into the party unnoticed. There he spotted the beautiful Princess Similde and she spotted him. The two fell in love and made their way home to Laurin's kingdom. Probably to impress his beloved, Laurin waved his magic wand and covered his dwarf kingdom all over with red roses. But even with a belt that can make you invisible, you still leave footprints and so the two were caught. The beautiful Similde was gone, the magic belt too and Laurin cursed his rose garden, never again would anyone be able to see his beauty, neither by day nor by night. What luck that Laurin had forgotten about dusk: then the mountains glowed a deep red again. Just as if they were covered all over with roses.