Exploring the Alpine Charm of Trentino-Alto Adige with My Spouse

A Day Among Giants

Today was a day of soaring heights, both literally and figuratively. Habibullah and I ventured into the heart of the Dolomites, a landscape that continues to humble and inspire me. We experienced views that stretched to the horizon and tasted flavors that told stories of this unique region. It was a day of pure Alpine magic.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Locanda del Gatto Gordo in Trento. It's a charming spot, and I was delighted to find they had some vegan options available. I opted for a simple yet satisfying breakfast of coffee with soy milk and a vegan croissant. Habibullah enjoyed a traditional Italian breakfast, fueling up for our mountain adventure. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home before we even started our day.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Trento at Locanda del Gatto Gordo, a charming pub-bar offering a perfect blend of local cuisine and warm ambiance.

After breakfast, we set off towards the Fassa Valley. The drive itself was a treat, with winding roads offering glimpses of the majestic mountains that awaited us. As we approached the valley, the scenery became even more dramatic. Lush green meadows dotted with wildflowers stretched out before us, framed by the towering peaks of the Dolomites. It was a landscape that seemed straight out of a painting.


Explore Fassa Valley's breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences in the heart of the Italian Alps.

We spent the morning exploring the Fassa Valley, taking in the sights and sounds of this beautiful region. We decided to take a leisurely hike along one of the many trails, breathing in the crisp mountain air and marveling at the views. The valley is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with options for hiking, biking, and climbing, but we opted for a gentle stroll to soak in the scenery. I was particularly fascinated by the Ladin culture that permeates the valley. It's a unique blend of Italian and Austrian influences, evident in the architecture, the language, and the local traditions. We even saw signs in Ladin, which added to the area's unique charm.

The Dolomites whispered to our hearts, a magic difficult to describe, yet impossible to forget.

For lunch, we stopped at Dal Marcante Specialità Alimentari, a delightful spot recommended by a local we met on our hike. This place was a treasure trove of local delicacies. Habibullah and I decided to share a platter of regional specialties, including speck, cheeses, and pickled vegetables. It was a true taste of Trentino-Alto Adige, and we savored every bite. We also picked up some local honey and a jar of pickled mushrooms to take back to Toronto with us – little edible souvenirs to remind us of this beautiful place. While there, I noticed they had many vegetarian options available, ensuring that everyone can find something to enjoy.


Explore authentic Italian cuisine at Dal Marcante Specialitá Alimentari in Trento – where organic meets tradition.

In the afternoon, we ascended to the Terrazza delle Dolomiti, a panoramic viewpoint that promised unparalleled views of the surrounding peaks. The cable car ride up was an experience in itself, with the landscape unfolding beneath us as we climbed higher and higher. As we stepped onto the terrace, we were met with a sight that truly took our breath away. The Dolomites stretched out before us in all their glory, a jagged skyline of towering peaks and verdant valleys. The views were simply stunning, and we spent a long time simply taking it all in. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but no photograph could ever do justice to the sheer scale and beauty of this place.


Experience breathtaking panoramic views and thrilling adventures at Terrazza delle Dolomiti in the heart of the Italian Alps.

The Terrazza delle Dolomiti offered a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Dolomites from a high vantage point. The best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is clear. It is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes as there are opportunities for trekking. We were lucky to have a clear day, and the views were simply breathtaking. I felt so grateful to be able to share this experience with Habibullah, who was equally awestruck by the scenery.

Before dinner, we stopped by Bar La Vie En Rose. The bar had a charming atmosphere, and we enjoyed a couple of glasses of local wine as we reflected on our day. I noticed the decor had a rustic character, with warm shades ranging from white to beige, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. It was the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the mountains.


Experience the cozy charm of Bar La Vie En Rose in Trento, where delightful drinks and a warm atmosphere await every traveler.

For dinner, we chose Alla Mostra, a restaurant known for its traditional Trentino cuisine. We started with marinated trout with apple salad and horseradish sauce, a refreshing and flavorful dish that showcased the local ingredients. For my main course, I opted for the mountain cheese with red wine marinated radicchio, while Habibullah chose one of their pasta dishes. We ended the meal with hazelnut cake on vanilla sauce, a sweet and satisfying treat. The restaurant had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were attentive and friendly. It was the perfect way to end our day in the Dolomites.


Discover a fusion of Indian and Italian cuisine at Alla Mostra in Trento - where flavorful dishes meet welcoming ambiance.

As we drove back to our accommodation, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. The Dolomites had truly captured my heart, and I knew that this was a place I would never forget. The combination of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious food made for an unforgettable day. I am so glad that I was able to share this experience with my beloved Habibullah.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Lake Tovel and the Canyon Rio Sass. I've heard that Lake Tovel is particularly beautiful, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains. I'm also excited to see the Canyon Rio Sass, which I've heard is a unique and fascinating natural wonder. We'll also be stopping by Boutique Legami, a shop I've heard has some lovely souvenirs. I'm looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery in this incredible region. I am sure Habibullah will enjoy it as much as I will.

As I reflect on our day, I am reminded of the importance of taking time to appreciate the beauty of the world around us. In our busy lives, it's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and forget to pause and appreciate the simple things. But when we take the time to connect with nature, to immerse ourselves in a different culture, and to share these experiences with loved ones, we enrich our lives in ways that are immeasurable. And that, I believe, is what travel is all about.

I am also reminded of how fortunate I am to be able to travel and experience new cultures. As a refugee who came to Canada from Afghanistan, I never imagined that I would have the opportunity to see so much of the world. I am grateful for the opportunities that Canada has given me, and I am committed to using my experiences to help others who are less fortunate. I believe that travel can be a powerful tool for understanding and empathy, and I hope to inspire others to explore the world with an open mind and a compassionate heart.

Good night from Trentino-Alto Adige. May your dreams be filled with mountain vistas and Ladin delights. I look forward to sharing tomorrow's adventures with you all!