u/eatmorepossum

We did this scenic trekking loop as part of our 30th anniversary trip through the Alps. It was one of the most active and memorable days of the entire sixteen day journey. The circuit around Tre Cime di Lavaredois about six miles long, taking you right up close to those three massive dolomite monoliths that dominate the skyline. To get there, you either need to reserve a toll road parking spot right at Rifugio Auronzo at the top (which we did), or park down by Lago di Antorno and tackle the additional three-mile climb on foot just to reach the trailhead. We opted to get organized early, which gave us the full day to immerse ourselves in the landscape without the extra brutal incline at the start. Camper vans have a limited parking area, so we opted for a 9am start time to ensure we got a space. If you are renting a van, make sure you update your reservation with the license plate when you know it.

Along the trail, you pass several iconic landmarks, including the small stone chapel of Cappella degli Alpini andfour distinct mountain huts: Rifugio Auronzo at the start, Rifugio Lavaredo, Rifugio Antonio Locatelli perched up on the hill, and Rifugio Langalm near the end of the loop. While many hikers stop at the refugios for lunch or espresso, we decided to keep moving past all four because we were worried if we sat down for too long, our legs would completely lock up and we wouldn't be able to get moving again. It is a good idea to carry cash/coins for food and bathroom breaks at the refugios. Beyond the three peaks themselves, the trail opens up to sweeping panorama views of the surrounding Sexten Dolomites, including the jagged spires of the Cadini di Misurina range in the distance.

Beyond the sheer visual scale, the trail carries deep historical significance. During World War I, this area was right on the front line between Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces, and as you walk the loop you can still spot old military trenches, tunnels, and fortifications built into the limestone. Circling around to the classic north-face view of the three peaks makes every bit of effort worth it, and finishing the loop left us completely exhausted but thrilled to have marked three decades together on such an incredible trail.

Photos taken by me using a Sony A7 and 3 lenses on June 23, 2026

On its surface, it looks like a postcard straight out of a classic European fairy tale, but it is so packed with raw, dramatic mountain energy that to me it makes it better than almost anywhere else in Europe. In my opinion, it was one of the rare places I’ve been to that lived up to every bit of the hype I had in my mind.

The sheer scale, vertical geology, and mountain-town vibes reminded me a lot of the Dolomites or Chamonix, and overall, the absolute highlight is the staggering geography. There’s an obvious historic Alpine railway culture, but the valley is full of sheer granite walls, roaring waterfalls, and epic mountaineering history. It’s also an amazingly walkable and seamless region to navigate by train and on foot. The streets in villages like Wengen and Mürren are completely car-free. Fortunately, the historic cogwheel train and cable car network keeps standard cars out of the way entirely. The farther you venture up into the high alpine passes, the narrower and more dramatic the mountain trails become.

The variety of scenic transport is also very impressive. Riding the historic Wengernalpbahn (WAB) cogwheel railway and the Bernese Oberland-Bahn (BOB) are absolute must-dos. Taking the massive Schilthornbahn gondola system up past Mürren for views across the entire valley was also a massive highlight.

Since it’s a hub for hikers, climbers, and travelers from around the globe, you get a very lively, atmospheric vibe in the mountain lodges and deck side cafes. On the deck at Kleine Scheidegg, the crew even loaned me a classical guitar to pick a few tunes right under the sheer North Face of the Eiger. Sitting out on those sun decks while weather cycles through dramatic mist, blue skies, and total mountain moodiness was easily one of the highlights of the whole trip.

You will also see a lot of tourists, though they come from every corner of the globe. Interestingly, it’s such an iconic international bucket-list destination that you’ll hear dozens of languages being spoken along the trail networks and train platforms.

The food is, of course, fantastic. There are lots of small mountain huts and valley cafes where you feel like you are sitting in a cozy alpine home enjoying local dishes. There are also incredible historic hotel dining rooms, like Hotel Regina in Mürren, offering incredible meals overlooking the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. However, the mountain-deck stops and cozy trailside cafes were a real highlight.

Overall, I’m amazed by how many people stick strictly to the big tourist cities vs. spending extended time immersed in the Bernese Oberland. I know a large part of that is the cost and the perception of navigating mountain transit, but the regional rail system makes it unbelievably easy even if you don't speak Swiss German. That being said, the Bernese Oberland is such an extraordinary, mind-blowing region that it still surprises me everyone doesn't drop everything to visit. Even if your time is limited, it’s an absolute can’t-miss in my opinion.

Photos from Bernese Oberland, Switzerland (Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Eiger, Kleine Scheidegg)

Had a fun time shooting some vintage glass shots in SFO. Here are just a few shots.