Peaio di Cadore, usually referred to as simply Peaio, is a small hamlet in the heart of the Dolomites. It is within the municipality of Vodo di Cadore in the Belluno province of Italy. This small area sits at about 900 metres above sea level and is famously known as being the birthplace of Italo Marchiony, the inventor of the ice cream cone!
Join us in the article as we explore this charming little village and share what to see and do in Peaio di Cadore, what the local traditions and cuisine are, and some helpful tips for planning your perfect visit.
Where is Peaio di Cadore and how to get there?
Peaio di Cadore is located in the Belluno province in Veneto, Italy. As Peaio is along the SS51 (Strada Statale 51 motorway), it is conveniently connected to many major cities. The drive from Venice is about 2 hours, while Cortina d’Ampezzo is only a 20-minute drive away.
Depending on where you are coming from, driving or taking public transportation is your best option. In our opinion, renting a car is a great choice since it provides flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy the scenic route through the Dolomites. However, you can easily get to Peaio di Cadore by bus with the Cortina Express. They offer direct service to Peaio with other nearby towns.
What to see and do in Peaio di Cadore
Peaio di Cadore has a variety of attractions and activities for you to enjoy. When visiting the village, there are a few historical sights worth seeing. One of the most notable historical routes is the Strada Regia di Alemagna. This was an ancient road that connected Venice to the Germanic areas through the Cadore. It is a medieval route that is still accessible to walk or cycle through today.
If you are looking for more outdoor activities, cycling in the Dolomites is an extremely popular activity. One of our favourite trails is the Dolomites Cycle Path, also known as the Lunga Via delle Dolomiti. This is a scenic route that is about 66 kilometres long and will take you along the most breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. It is suitable for various skills and levels. If you prefer hiking or walking, numerous trails around Peaio are great for strolls with children or more intense routes with inclines.
The Dolomites in the spring and summer is a great time to enjoy a picnic by the lake. The lake of Centro Cadore is an artificial lake that is popular with visitors for its beautiful scenery. Alternatively, Lake Vodo is a reservoir near the centre of Vodo di Cadore that was created in the 1960s. It has lush forests around the water and is perfect for nature walks.
Local culture, food, and traditions
You know that visiting Peaio di Cadore is going to mean some amazing food. This is Italy, of course. This region is well-known for its traditional hearty mountain cuisine, emphasising the importance of locally sourced ingredients. Some must-try foods while in the area include cheese and dairy products, such as Formaggio di Malga and Ricotta affumicata. This Ricotta dish is smoked and often grated over polenta or pasta!
Other traditional means include Orzotto soup, a barley-based soup or risotto, often made with veggies and speck. Casunziei pasta is a crescent-shaped ravioli filled with beetroote, ricotta or pumpkin, usually served in a butter sauce, while Polenta is a staple dish from this region, usually served with stews and sausage. Lastly, don’t skip the dessert! Try Frittelle di mele, a delicious apple fritter, popular at local festivals.
Peaio holds a special place in culinary history as the birthplace of Italo Marchioni, born on December 21, 1868. Later, Marchioni emigrated to the United States, where in the late 19th century invented what is today the modern ice cream cone.
The best time to visit Peaio di Cadore
When you’re planning your trip to Peaio di Cadore, you should pay attention to the time of year you are going as this region changes greatly from summer to winter.
In our opinion, the best time to visit depends on what you want to do in the area. If you are a ski lover, then of course, the winter is the ideal time. However, to explore nature and the village of Peaio, visiting in late spring to early autumn is beautiful. During these months, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities as temperatures range between 14°C to 23°C. This climate is great for hiking, cycling and strolling through towns.
What to pack when visiting Peaio di Cadore
Depending on the time of year you go, your luggage might look a bit different. To help you organise your bag, here are our suggested items to bring when visiting in both summer and winter.
Summer (June–September)
- Light layers (t-shirts, long sleeves, light sweaters)
- Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes
- Light jacket or windbreaker (evenings can be cool)
- Sunglasses and sunhat
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Refillable water bottle
- Daypack for hikes
Winter (December–February)
- Thermal base layers
- Insulated jacket and waterproof outerwear
- Hat, gloves, and scarf
- Snow boots or waterproof footwear
- Warm sweaters and fleece layers
- Lip balm and moisturizer (cold, dry air)
- Optional: Snow gear if skiing or snowshoeing
Pro Tip: The weather in the Dolomites can change quickly, so bring layers year-round. This will help you regulate your temperature and enjoy the great outdoors no matter the season!
Come and explore Peaio di Cadore
Peaio di Cadore may be a small village, but it has a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty native to the Dolomites. From scenic trails, alpine lakes and historical sites, there is so much to explore in this region.
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