Misurina – Sunday 4th August 2024
Tucked away in the heart of the Italian Dolomites, Misurina is a serene alpine village waiting to be discovered. Nestled at an altitude of 1,754 meters, this place offers breathtaking views, crisp mountain air and a tranquil atmosphere that makes it a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
As you arrive in Misurina, the serene beauty of the landscape immediately captivates you, promising a memorable escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Getting to Misurina is an adventure in itself. The village is accessible via scenic routes that wind through the majestic Dolomites, offering glimpses of towering peaks, lush forests and picturesque valleys.
As we approach Misurina, the first sight that greets us is the pristine Lago di Misurina, a glacial lake renowned for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque setting.
The lake’s serene surface reflects the jagged peaks of the Sorapiss and Cristallo ranges, creating a mirror-like effect that is simply mesmerising. In the summer, the lake is a hub for activities such as boating and fishing, while in the winter, it transforms into a frozen wonderland ideal for ice skating.
Misurina is more than just a beautiful lake; it’s a gateway to some of the Dolomites’ most iconic landmarks. Some of the highlights is Lago di Sorapiss, a high glacial lake and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, a trio of distinctive peaks that are a paradise for hikers and climbers.
Lago di Sorapis – Sunday 5th August 2024
Today, we were hiking to Lago di Sorapiss. Nestled in the Dolomite mountains, this stunning glacial lake is renowned for its striking turquoise waters set against the backdrop of towering peaks.
The hike to Lago di Sorapiss takes us through lush forests and rocky terrain and rewards us with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and the serene beauty of the lake itself. We stayed here for sometime simply enjoying the view.
In the evening, we took a leisurely stroll around lake Lago di Misurina. The path is pretty short and circles the lake, offering various viewpoints, each more stunning than the last.
The true magic of Misurina lies in its tranquility. Unlike the more touristy spots in the Dolomites, Misurina retains a sense of peacefulness that allows you to fully immerse yourself in nature.
Cortina d’Ampezzo – Monday 5th August 2024
Today, we decided to explore Cortina d’Ampezzo, an alpine gem known as the “Queen of the Dolomites.” This charming town offers year-round appeal, but it’s pretty high end.
Cortina d’Ampezzo seamlessly blends natural beauty with cultural richness. Strolling through its picturesque streets, visitors can explore boutique shops, art galleries and historic sites.
Events and festivals, such as the Winter Polo on the frozen lake and the Cortina Trophy mountain bike race, add to the town’s vibrant atmosphere. Luxurious accommodations and wellness centres offer relaxation and pampering, which could make Cortina an ideal retreat for some. For me, I prefer the more laid-back vibe.
Lago Antrona – Monday 5th August 2024
We then decided to drive up to Lago di Antrona, a serene and picturesque alpine lake known for its crystal-clear waters and lush surrounding forests.
Located in the Antrona Valley within the Ossola region of Piedmont, this hidden gem offers a tranquil escape from the bustle of modern life. We wanted to check this area out also as we planned on coming up this way in the next day or two for another hike.
Tonight, however, we enjoyed the peacefulness of the lake and took in the surrounding peaks and the ever-changing reflections on the water’s surface whilst eating dinner. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore, Lago di Antrona provides a perfect setting for anyone and everyone, it’s absolutely stunning.
Forcella Zumeles – Tuesday 6th August 2024
Hiking Forcella Zumeles offered us another chance to get in some more views of the dramatic scenery here in the Dolomites.
The trail ascends through dense forests and rocky pathways, rewarding us with breathtaking panoramic views of jagged peaks and lush valleys. As we climbed higher, the landscape transforms, revealing stunning alpine meadows and the rugged beauty of the Zumeles saddle.
The area is also popular for cycling, with routes that take you through the stunning Alpine scenery. In the winter, the region transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and sledding.
This hike was less crowded than some of the more famous Dolomite trails and provided a sense of solitude.
We hiked to the Rifugio Son Forca nestled at an elevation of 2,115 meters. This charming mountain hut provides stunning panoramic views of rugged peaks and verdant valleys, embodying the dramatic landscape that has made the Dolomites a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The rifugio offers hearty Italian cuisine, but we stuck with coffee as we had brought our own packed lunch.
Whether you’re seeking tranquility, breathtaking landscapes, or a touch of adventure, the hike to Rifugio Son Forca delivers.
Tre Cime – Wednesday 7th August 2024
Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, there lies Tre Cime. This can be reached via a challenging but rewarding hike from Rifugio Auronzo, a mountain hut accessible by road from Misurina. The trail offers unparalleled views and the chance to experience the rugged beauty of the Dolomites up close.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks of Lavaredo) are among the most stunning and recognisable mountain formations in the world.
Located in northeastern Italy, these three towering peaks – Cima Piccola, Cima Grande, and Cima Ovest – rise majestically from the rugged landscape, captivating adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Tre Cime di Lavaredo is a magnet for hikers, infact it’s a hikers paradise, offering a variety of trails that range from leisurely walks to challenging climbs. The most popular route, the Tre Cime Circuit, is a loop that provides breathtaking views of the peaks from all angles.
The downside of such beauty, however, is that it brings people, lots of people. So for this hike, we arose early and were on the mountain for 5am, taking in the stunning sunrise whilst avoiding the crowds.
This hike rewarded us with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It was absolutely stunning.
For those seeking a more adrenaline-pumping experience, Tre Cime offers some of the best climbing opportunities in the Alps. The vertical rock faces, particularly on the Cima Grande, are a playground for experienced climbers. This place is visually amazing, everywhere you look.
The Tre Cime di Lavaredo are not just a natural wonder but also a historical landmark. During World War I, these peaks were a strategic front line between Italy and Austria-Hungary. Remnants of trenches and fortifications can still be found, offering a poignant glimpse into the past and a reminder of the area’s turbulent history.
Photographers flock to Tre Cime di Lavaredo to capture its dramatic scenery. The peaks are particularly striking at sunrise and sunset when the light paints the limestone in hues of pink, orange and purple which we got to see a glimpse of today.
Tre Cime di Lavaredo is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that connects you with nature, history and the sheer beauty of the Dolomites. Whether you’re hiking, climbing, or simply soaking in the views, the Three Peaks of Lavaredo offer a timeless escape into one of Italy’s most enchanting landscapes.
We didn’t want to leave this place so once the crowds began to appear we scampered up another mountain opposite Tre Cime and my what views we got.
Cinque Torri – Thursday 8th August 2024
Hiking the Cinque Torri trail offers an unforgettable experience amidst the stunning Dolomite mountains in Italy. The Cinque Torri hike is a gem for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
This trail took us through breathtaking alpine meadows and rugged terrains, showcasing the iconic five towers of rock that stand majestically against the sky and give the hike its name.
As we traversed the path, remnants of World War I tell silent stories of the past, adding a poignant historical dimension to our journey.
The trail’s allure, I guess, will change with the seasons. Right now in summer, we have vibrant wildflowers painting the landscape in a riot of colors.
Along the way, cosy mountain huts, known as rifugi, provide welcome rest stops where we could savour delicious local cuisine and soak in the stunning vistas.
Photographers will find endless opportunities, like we did, to capture the dramatic rock formations, sweeping panoramas or the various rock climbers doing their stuff.
There were more hikes up here, so we undertook a few trying to stay up the mountain for as long as we could.
Piz Boé – Friday 9th August 2024
Today, we headed up the Passo di Valporala, the mountain pass that provides access to Col di Lana. Situated at an elevation of 2,168 meters (7,113 feet), it is one of the key routes connecting the provinces of Belluno and South Tyrol in the Dolomites.
The pass is also near Passo Falzarego, another significant route in the region. Together, these passes offer stunning vistas and serve as gateways to various other peaks and historical sites in the Dolomites.
We arrived in Col di Lana late Thursday afternoon and we were staying in Hotel Col di Lana for the next 2 nights.
We were here to hike Piz Boè a prominent mountain peak. It stands at an elevation of 3,152 meters (10,341 feet), making it the highest point of the Sella Group, a massif in the central Dolomites.
Despite its height, Piz Boè is considered one of the easier 3,000-meter peaks to climb in the Dolomites. The most popular ascent route begins at the Passo Pordoi, a mountain pass that sits at 2,239 meters (7,346 feet).
The final section of the climb involves a well-marked trail that ascends through rocky terrain. For those seeking a more challenging route, there are several via ferrata (protected climbing routes) that lead to the summit, including the famous “Brigata Tridentina.”
From the summit of Piz Boè, we were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomites, including famous peaks like the Marmolada (the highest in the Dolomites), the Tofane group, and the Fanes group. Today, it was possible to see as far as the Austrian Alps and even the distant Swiss mountains.
At the summit, there is a small refuge, Rifugio Capanna Fassa, where we rested and enjoyed refreshments while taking in the stunning scenery.
The Dolomites, including Piz Boè, are renowned for their unique geology, characterised by rugged limestone formations that glow in pink and orange hues at sunrise and sunset. This phenomenon is known as “enrosadira” in the local Ladin language.
The mountain is also culturally significant to the Ladin people, an ethnic group native to the Dolomites. The area surrounding Piz Boè is steeped in Ladin culture, with the language, traditions and cuisine still strongly present in the local communities.
Piz Boè is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone interested in exploring the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Dolomites.
Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a casual hiker, reaching the summit of Piz Boè offers an unforgettable experience in one of the most iconic mountain ranges in the world.
St Magdelana via the Stella Pass and then on to Bolzano – Saturday 10th August 2024
Today, we were driving over the Sella Pass en route to St Magdelana. The Stella Pass is known as Passo Sella in Italian and Sellajoch in German, which is a high mountain pass in the Dolomites of northern Italy. It is one of the most famous and scenic passes in the region, situated at an elevation of 2,218 meters (7,277 feet) above sea level.
Sella Pass lies at the intersection of several major Dolomite mountain ranges, making it a key point for exploring the region. The pass is surrounded by the Sella Group to the north, the Sassolungo (Langkofel) massif to the west, and the Marmolada to the south. These dramatic peaks, with their towering cliffs and rugged terrain, create a breathtaking panorama that draws visitors from around the world.
Sella Pass is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities depending on the season.
Historically, the pass has served as a vital route for trade and travel through the Dolomites. During World War I, the region saw significant military activity and the remnants of fortifications and battle sites can still be found in the mountains.
St. Magdalena
St. Magdalena, also known as Santa Maddalena or St. Magdalena in Villnöß, is a picturesque village located in the Val di Funes (Villnöß Valley) in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy. Nestled within the Dolomites, this charming hamlet is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, idyllic landscapes, and the iconic view of the Odle (Geisler) mountain range.
St. Magdalena is situated at an elevation of around 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) above sea level. The village is surrounded by lush meadows, dense forests and towering peaks, making it a quintessential Alpine setting. The most striking feature of St. Magdalena is its proximity to the jagged peaks of the Odle/Geisler group, which rise dramatically behind the village, creating one of the most photographed scenes in the Dolomites.
One of the village’s most famous landmarks is the Church of St. Magdalena, a small, picturesque church that dates back to the 14th century. The church, with its distinctive onion-domed bell tower, is set against the backdrop of the Odle peaks, making it a popular subject for photographers and visitors alike. According to local legend, the church was built on the site where a miraculous image of St. Magdalena was discovered.
Bolzano
Bolzano, known as Bozen in German, is a vibrant city located in the South Tyrol (Alto Adige) region of northern Italy. It serves as the capital of South Tyrol and is a cultural and economic hub in the region. Bolzano is renowned for its unique blend of Italian, German and Ladin cultures, as well as its stunning Alpine scenery, making it a fascinating destination for travellers.
Bolzano is situated in a picturesque valley. The city is surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites to the east and the Sarntal Alps to the north and west. This strategic location has historically made Bolzano a crossroads of trade routes and a melting pot of cultures.
The city lies at an elevation of about 262 meters (860 feet) above sea level and is well-connected by road and rail to other major cities in Italy and neighboring Austria and Switzerland. Its proximity to the Dolomites makes Bolzano a popular base for exploring the surrounding mountains and natural parks.
Bolzano has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Originally settled by the Raetian tribes, the area later became part of the Roman Empire. The city’s name, derived from the Latin “Bauzanum,” reflects its Roman origins.
Bolzano is a city where Italian and Austrian influences coexist harmoniously, creating a unique cultural landscape. This is evident in the city’s architecture, cuisine, festivals and everyday life.
The heart of Bolzano is the Piazza Walther, a large, bustling square named after the medieval poet Walther von der Vogelweide. The square is surrounded by cafes, shops, and historic buildings and it hosts various events throughout the year, including the famous Bolzano Christmas Market.
Located on Piazza Walther, the Bolzano Cathedral (Duomo di Bolzano) is an impressive Gothic structure with a striking bell tower. The cathedral is a symbol of the city’s rich religious and architectural heritage.
The region is also famous for its apple orchards, vineyards and wine production, particularly for its high-quality white wines such as Gewürztraminer.
There’s cities I enjoy and cities I don’t and this one was a lucky pick for us – I loved it! Bolzano was to be our last stop in Italy, so for now, it was arrivederci, Italia!
Mary's Outdoor Adventure's 