Short drive (30–40 min) to Renon plateau for panoramic views of the Dolomites and Bolzano; easy walking paths and cable car from Bolzano if you want a quick summit fix.
If lower sections are snow-free, enjoy a 1.5–2 hour forest/lakeside loop with dramatic peaks above; if snow remains, opt for valley walks near the villages.
Lunch at a local gasthof (try Bauernbrot sandwiches or speck boards) or bring a picnic to enjoy with the view — many huts open weekends and for lunch but check seasonal hours.
If the Siusi/Compatsch cable car is running (seasonal — often available for winter and summer; spring dates vary), take it up for expansive, gentle trails and views of Sassolungo and Sciliar; if closed, do low‑elevation walks around Castelrotto and Ortisei.
Enjoy a simple alpine lunch (soup, pasta, local cheeses) at Rifugio or Malga on Seiser Alm — huts often open mid‑morning to mid‑afternoon but hours vary; call ahead if possible.
Stroll to scenic ridgelines or rent an e‑bike (seasonal) for easier coverage of the plateau; spring landscapes are dramatic with snow‑tipped peaks and green meadows below.
Early breakfast then check Seceda cable car status in Ortisei (often runs in winter and intermittently in spring) — if operating, it gives immediate high‑alpine views.
If the lift is open, ride up and walk along the famous jagged ridgeline for sweeping Dolomite views; if closed, take the Dantercepies cable car or lower valley trails for panoramic alternatives.
Explore gentle valley trails, or if lifts are running, take Rasciesa funicular for forested views and short ridgeline walks; always check lift opening hours for spring.
Start early to maximize daylight and check whether Passo Pordoi and Passo Falzarego are open; closures are common in spring — have valley route alternatives ready.
Stop at roadside viewpoints such as Pordoi or Falzarego (if accessible) for classic Dolomite panoramas and short flat walks; if passes closed, enjoy valley views from lower elevations near Canazei.
If you reach Cortina by midday, lunch in town (pizzerias and alpine bistros open midday). Many high mountain rifugios open for lunch when lifts/routes are operating — check seasonality.
Cortina offers elegant pedestrian streets, alpine shops and nearby Lago di Misurina (about 20–30 min) — lakeside walks are accessible in spring and make a calm afternoon.
Note: the private road up to Rifugio Auronzo (Tre Cime) often opens later in May; if still closed, keep plans for Lago di Braies / lower hikes for tomorrow.
Boat rental season usually begins in spring (often early May) — if not running, a full lakeshore walk is still spectacular. Check boat availability online or at the boathouse.
If the private road to Rifugio Auronzo and Tre Cime is open, drive up for the classic Tre Cime loop (3–4h). If the road remains closed, opt for lower‑elevation hikes or visit the Cadini di Misurina area.
If you have time before departure, pick a short 1–2 hour walk or visit a local farm for seasonal produce — spring is quieter and great for low‑elevation nature.