There is a word in the Ladin language that perfectly encapsulates all the magic of the Dolomites - the mountain range in the eastern Alps, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2009. That word is “enrosadira”, a term meaning ‘to turn pink' in Ladin, which describes a unique phenomenon when these peaks take on delicate rosy hues during the hours of sunrise and sunset. This is one of the characteristic features that contribute to the mountains' charm, especially in the autumn season, when the larches turn red and the scent of Swiss pine permeates the less-beaten paths. And while the Alpine passes await the first cold snaps, this season offers breathtaking views, from apple orchards still heavy with fruit to long rows of vines, typical of the Val di Cembra. To navigate the Alpine roads safely as the winter season approaches, the P Zero Winter 2 – chosen by major car manufacturers for high-performance models – is the ideal tyre for those seeking a sporty drive even in the colder months, as it ensures grip and control even on snow-covered surfaces. Perfect for those who love tackling the Dolomite hairpin bends in winter, it was named the best winter product by Tyre Reviews in their 2024/2025 season comparison. For drivers of compact cars or crossovers who want to travel mountain roads with total peace of mind, the Cinturato Winter 3 guarantees excellent braking performance and handling on snow and wet surfaces, as recognised by external tests conducted by Dekra and TÜV. The advanced compound and tread pattern ensure traction, stability, and comfort even in the most difficult conditions, such as the sudden snowfalls that can be encountered in the Dolomites. Drivers of SUVs, on the other hand, can rely on the Scorpion Winter 2, the ideal choice for "high-riding" vehicles.
Driving through the silence of the forests, among hairpin turns and small mountain villages, is the best way to connect with a region ripe for exploration and to enjoy the pleasure of a slow, contemplative journey. New landscapes reveal themselves around every bend, each with its own unique charm and history. Crossing the Val di Fiemme one cannot help but be drawn to the ancient frescoes of the Palazzo della Magnifica Comunità in Cavalese, the symbol of an institution dating back to the 12th Century and still actively present in the life of the area. Nearby Tesero is smaller and more intimate, acting as a gateway to Pampeago, Latemar and Obereggen: an area long associated with sport and outdoor activities, which will host the Olympic events for Nordic Combined and Cross-Country Skiing. There is also great anticipation in Predazzo, where the wild Lagorai mountain range will serve as the backdrop for the Nordic Combined and Ski Jumping events. For those driving to the slopes, Pirelli's specialised winter tyres guarantee effective grip even on snowy roads, or when temperatures drop below freezing, making the journey safe and comfortable. Venturing into the Val di Fassa, between Moena and Canazei, you leave the expanses of spruce forest to immerse yourself in the heart of Ladinia, easily recognisable by the characteristic architecture of its houses with pinnacled roofs, painted façades, and generous flower-filled balconies. The culinary offerings are rich, including the typical Puzzone (a cheese with an unmistakable aroma), South Tyrol's speck, grappa made with alpine herbs, and honey - best sampled in the mountain dairies (malghe), where breeders and farmers pass down their craft from generation to generation, safeguarding precious, quality recipes. Beyond cuisine, craftsmanship, and specifically the art of wood carving, is a well-established tradition throughout the area.
For those who enjoy retracing the steps of the Great War, a stop at the Pordoi Pass, at 2,239 metres above sea level, is worthwhile. Here, nestled in the rock, is the fascinating Museo 1915-1918 Dolomiten with over three thousand artefacts that accurately trace the fighting of the First World War on Col di Lana and Marmolada. Through photographs, letters, everyday objects, uniforms, and faithful reconstructions of barracks and trenches, visitors can understand the harsh living conditions of the Italian and Austrian soldiers.
Crossing the pass, you reach the village of Arabba, a charming location in the Belluno area set between the imposing Sella Massif and the rugged ridges of the Marmolada Group. We are in the Valle di Fodom, famous for its ski season, which, via convenient lifts, allows easy access to the Val di Fassa, Val Gardena and Val Badia, including all the most chic resorts in Trentino, such as the delightful Ortisei. The latter is famous for its hand-carved and painted wooden nativity scenes, which attract millions of visitors every year.
For lovers of scenic routes and sporty driving, Pirelli's ultra-high performance tyres from the P Zero range, as well as winter models like the P Zero Winter 2, guarantee optimal grip even on the most challenging curves of the Dolomite passes, also boasting the highest classification on the European label for wet grip.
Between the peaks of Lagazuoi and Sass de Stria, the Falzarego Pass is worth a stop; it connects the upper Agordino area with Cortina d'Ampezzo, the Pearl of the Dolomites, which this winter will welcome athletes for the women's Alpine Skiing, Bobsleigh, Skeleton, Luge, and Curling event A destination for the international jet set for its undeniable scenic beauty, Cortina retains its essence as a mountain village alongside its more fashionable and glossy side, which brings together the best luxury boutiques lining Corso Italia, the main shopping street. It is still capable of offering special encounters with nature. And so, along the most pristine trails, marmots can be spotted peering out from the boulders, chamois can be seen chasing each other on the gravel slopes and mountain ridges, and the eagle soaring high in the sky. For nature enthusiasts, there is another pass that leads to Cortina: the Giau Pass. This is a particularly panoramic crossing that connects the Ampezzo territory with Selva di Cadore, Val Fiorentina and Colle Santa Lucia. Known for being included in a stage of the Giro d'Italia cycle race due to its steep and challenging ascent, it attracts passionate cyclists and motorcyclists every year. A starting point for various summer excursions, in winter it is a snowkiting paradise. Although the real achievement is reaching the summit and enjoying one of the most evocative and complete views of the entire Dolomites.
The landscapes and views offered by the Dolomites make them an ideal destination in any season of the year. For those ready to set off at any moment, Pirelli has developed the All Season SF3 range, recently updated through the use of virtual development techniques. This includes the Cinturato All Season SF3, which offers braking control in various weather conditions and is designed particularly for medium and compact cars, and the Scorpion All Season SF3, which guarantees year-round safety and reliability for SUV drivers. Both are distinguished by the 3PMSF (Three Peak Mountain Snowflake marking), certifying their reliability even in low temperatures after rigorous testing in all conditions.
For those travelling with an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle, which requires specific solutions to manage the characteristics typical of these powertrains, such as high torque, Pirelli offers Elect technology, available on various products across the summer, winter, and all-season ranges. This technology also guarantees an increase in electric driving range of up to 10%.
