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The Divine Dolomites
By: Effetto Italy On: June 1, 2020 In: Destinations
With its soaring limestone mountains and rolling terrain, the Dolomites are unlike any other area in Italy, in both beauty and culture. Named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2009, the Alpine mountain range boasts 18 peaks which rise above 3000 meters and encompasses the regions of Veneto, Tretino Alto Adige and Fruili Venezia Guilia. But visitors do not just flock to see the mountain tops but rather a combination of jagged edges, valleys, hills, pastures, lakes, rivers, and incredible villages. While the Dolomites are an immensely popular spot for skiing and other winter activities, it is the summer season that truly makes the area shine bright.
Summer’s Delight
While the rest of Italy sizzles in the summer heat, the Dolomites are a perfect respite from the searing temperatures. From June until August, the average temperature ranges from 78 -86 degrees in the valleys but cooler at night; a perfect climate for all that summer has to offer such as hiking, biking and touring.
Spectacular Scenery
Hiking, of course, may be the biggest draw. Whether you prefer shorter day hikes or multi-day treks, the options are limitless. Many visitors decide to pick one or two villages as a home base, such as Ortisei, Bolzano or Cortina d’Ampezzo, and incorporate hikes and activities daily. While other visitors opt to journey deeper into the range, staying overnight at rifugios (mountain refuges) along the way. The Dolomites have an amazing network of these Alpine huts, some very rustic and some with more amenities, and many of which can be used for both accommodations and/or meals.
A Cultural Fusion
Beyond the sheer splendor of the destination, there is the distinctive meshing of the Italian and Austrian cultures. The Trentino-Alto Adige/South Tyrol region was part of the wider Austro-Hungarian empire until World War I, but the Austrian influence still remains strong, and German is the primary language. In the more central area, the language, culture, and traditions of the Ladin people is kept alive. Almost all the towns and villages in the Dolomites have both German and Italian names and they are certainly worth taking the time to explore. Some offer Tyrolean chalets and medieval churches, while others offer sunny promenades and quiet piazzas. Spas, museums, and shopping can be found all over the area, but almost all feature a wonderful view.
A Foodie’s Paradise
In addition to a view, delicious local food is another constant throughout. Home to several Michelin starred restaurants, food is an intrinsic part of the experience. Many dishes are hearty and simple, with a strong Austrian heritage. After a day of hiking, who wouldn’t want to sit down to a plate of Tris di Canederli (dumplings with ham) or fresh game served with the “bread of the Dolomites”, polenta? And please wash it down with a glass of Lagrein wine or a Padavena beer.
It’s easy to get in and out of the Dolomites, especially if you add on cities to your program. From Venice, the drive is 3-4 hours and from Verona the drive is 2.5 hours. If you would like more info on how to incorporate the Dolomites for your next program or event, contact us today!
Ciao for now!
The Effetto Italy Team
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