Italy is famous for its sunshine, clear skies, beautiful beaches, vineyards, and outstanding designers. However, this country has another treasure – the Dolomite Alps, located in the eastern Italian Alps.
This mountain range, stretching for 120 kilometers in the northeastern part of the country, includes its highest peak, Mount Marmolada, at 3,342 meters. The Dolomite Alps are renowned for their glaciers, alpine meadows, and pine forests. This region offers a variety of recreational opportunities, as well as excursions to historic sites where World War I battles unfolded a century ago.
Things to do
Famous French architect Le Corbusier called the Dolomite Alps the most remarkable work of natural architecture in the world. Each region of this unique destination attracts its own fans and has its own unique characteristics, but all the ski resorts here offer a full range of services for mountain sports enthusiasts, boasting well-developed infrastructure and a diverse program of excursions.
The Dolomites offer many opportunities for more than just skiers: the resorts offer trekking trails, and you can rent mountain bikes or climbing equipment. While hiking, you can encounter various animals, such as foxes, squirrels, roe deer, and marmots, as well as, in some regions, mouflon and badgers. A keen observer will also spot owls, woodpeckers, golden eagles, partridges, and black grouse.
For those who manage to climb to the summit of Mount Marmolada, nature offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and peaks, capped with perpetual snow. Along the ski slopes, you can visit historic sites where the events of World War I unfolded a century ago: the Lagazui military tunnels, trenches and outposts in Torri, Col di Lana, and Marmolada; and the Ferrata delle Trinse railway leading to the trenches. Some places have museums that tell the story of the brutality and senselessness of war, such as the Valparala Museum in the village of Edelweiss or the open-air history museum on Mount Mormolada at an altitude of 3,256 meters.
