Falcade, in the province of Belluno, near the border with Trentino-Alto Adige, is a true gem nestled among the majestic Dolomites. This mountain resort is a beloved destination for winter and summer holidays, thanks to its natural beauty and the variety of activities it offers.
Falcade is the most interesting town in the Val del Bois, a valley surrounded by the imposing peaks of the Marmolada, Civetta , and the Focobon Group. It extends for approximately 20 km, offering breathtaking views along the Biois stream. Besides being a tourist destination, the Val del Biois is a true open-air museum, with sacred paintings and frescoes adorning the facades of houses dating from the 17th to 19th centuries.
What to do and see in Falcade
For winter sports enthusiasts, Falcade offers access to the San Pellegrino Ski Area, easily reached by cable car from Molino. Here, 60 km of downhill slopes of varying difficulty await skiers, along with a snow park and nursery slopes for younger skiers. Nordic skiing enthusiasts can try the cross-country ski centers in Falcade and Canale d'Agordo, offering scenic and technical trails.
The Falcade Plain, in the heart of the village, is a vast grassy expanse suitable for families in the summer and a sports center in the winter. It features a children's playground, a barbecue area, and a picturesque alpine lake. Every year, the plain hosts significant events, such as the traditional transhumance festival "Se Desmonteghea" in September.
Walking through the town, it's impossible not to notice the ancient wooden barns, called Tabià. These barns, over 300 in the area, were once used for hay storage and as stables adjacent to homes. The main beam of these Tabià is engraved with the dates of construction and subsequent restorations.
Finally, from Falcade it is possible to set off to explore the surrounding area, discovering, by car, equally stunning tourist locations such as Cortina d'Ampezzo and Cadore.
Nature walks
begins La Cavalera, a peaceful walk along the banks of the Biois stream that leads to Canale d'Agordo. This trail, inaugurated on the thirtieth anniversary of Albino Luciani's election as Pope, offers not only a nature walk but is also enriched by the presence of the Via Crucis Papa Luciani, composed of 15 bronze panels.
Canale d'Agordo, the picturesque birthplace of Pope John Paul I, is a must-see for those wishing to explore his legacy. Here, you can visit the MUSAL (Albino Luciani Museum) and the pontiff's birthplace, offering an intimate insight into his life and contribution to the Church.
The Canale d'Agordo Carnival, enhanced by the famous Zinghenesta, is a unique experience combining local traditions, characteristic masks, and captivating dance parades. This colorful folkloristic event, celebrated on the Sunday before Shrove Tuesday, attracts visitors from all over Italy.
For nature lovers, the Barezze waterfalls in Falcade and the Garés in Canale d'Agordo offer breathtaking sights and sounds. The Garés waterfalls, accessible from Capanna Cima Comelle, offer picturesque scenery and invite an enchanting walk through woods and frozen waterfalls.
Meanwhile, in the northern part of the Biois Valley, Valfredda offers spectacular views at the foot of the Marmolada mountain range. Accessible from the San Pellegrino Pass or a pleasant walk from Falcade, Valfredda is famous for its characteristic "casoni," wooden huts once used as shelters for shepherds.
Finally, in the hamlet of Celat in San Tomaso Agordino, the miniature Dolomites are a unique and fascinating attraction. Along a path immersed in the woods, rock sculptures faithfully reproduce the iconic Dolomite peaks. This open-air work of art, the result of the skill of international artists who gather annually, transforms nature into a living museum of the Dolomites.
Where to stay in Falcade: the best areas
Choosing where to stay in Falcade is a truly subjective experience: the town center offers a lively atmosphere and proximity to amenities, while Caviola is a quiet, residential area. For those seeking absolute tranquility, the hamlet of Sappade, slightly above the town center, is a worthwhile option. To visit the Val del Bois and the beauty surrounding Falcade, both in summer and winter, it's always important to book an apartment online for peace and relaxation, allowing you to do whatever you want at your own pace.
