Family Adventure in the Dolomites: Exploring Italy's Natural Wonders

A Day of Heights and Hidden Valleys

Today was a day of reaching new heights, both literally and figuratively, as we explored more of the stunning Dolomites. From panoramic terraces to hidden valleys, every moment was a feast for the senses. I feel incredibly lucky to be sharing this adventure with Hans and Kati, creating memories that I know we'll cherish for years to come. The Dolomites continue to surprise and inspire me with their raw beauty and tranquil charm.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Baita Gherdeccia. This cozy spot offered a delightful start to the day. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air, and the views from the windows were simply breathtaking. I opted for a traditional South Tyrolean breakfast of speck (cured ham), cheese, and freshly baked bread, while Hans enjoyed a cappuccino and Kati chose a pastry. It was the perfect fuel for our day of exploration ahead. The reviews I had read beforehand were spot on, with many praising the friendly staff and the exceptional quality of the food for a slopeside establishment.


Discover Baita Gherdeccia: A delightful restaurant and pub offering authentic Italian cuisine amidst stunning Dolomite scenery.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to our first destination: the Terrazza delle Dolomiti. To get there, we took a cable car up to Sass Pordoi. The ride itself was an experience, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. As we ascended, the landscape transformed from lush green meadows to rocky, snow-dusted terrain. Reaching the Terrazza delle Dolomiti, at an altitude of 2,950 meters, felt like stepping onto another planet. The panoramic views were simply awe-inspiring, stretching as far as the eye could see. We spent a good hour simply soaking in the scenery, taking photos, and marveling at the sheer scale and beauty of the Dolomites. I could see why it's called the Terrace of the Dolomites – it truly felt like we were on top of the world.


Discover the stunning Terrazza delle Dolomiti, where breathtaking mountain views and exhilarating cable car rides await in the heart of the Dolomites.

Sometimes, the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn't mean to take.

Next on our itinerary was Val Pettorina, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Dolomites. This valley is known for its untouched natural beauty, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. We decided to take a leisurely hike along one of the many trails, enjoying the peace and quiet of the surroundings. The path led us through lush forests, past crystal-clear streams, and over rolling hills. The air was fresh and clean, and the only sounds were the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of birds. Kati, ever the nature enthusiast, was in her element, pointing out various wildflowers and interesting rock formations. Hans, with his architect's eye, was captivated by the traditional Ladin architecture of the small villages we passed through. I felt a sense of tranquility wash over me as we walked, a feeling of being completely immersed in nature. I read that Val Pettorina has some tough walks, but it's worth it.


Explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Val Pettorina, a hidden gem in the Dolomites, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.

For lunch, we stopped at Col de Cuk, a charming restaurant with panoramic views. We enjoyed pizza, while enjoying the scenery. It was simple, but satisfying, and the perfect way to refuel after our hike.


Experience authentic Italian pizza with breathtaking mountain views at Col de Cuk in Canazei's stunning Dolomites.

Our final stop for the day was Passo Pordoi, one of the most famous mountain passes in the Dolomites. The drive up to the pass was an adventure in itself, with winding roads and hairpin turns offering breathtaking views at every corner. Reaching the summit, at an elevation of 2,239 meters, was a rewarding experience. The pass connects Arabba with Canazei and is one of the iconic passes in the Dolomites. We took some time to explore the area, visiting the memorial to Fausto Coppi, a legendary Italian cyclist. The views from the pass were simply stunning, with the Sella group to the north and the Marmolada group to the south. The air was crisp and cool, and the scenery was simply majestic. The Passo Pordoi is also one of the four passes of the Great Dolomites Road, which was built in the early 20th century.


Explore the breathtaking Passo Pordoi, a stunning mountain pass in the Dolomites, perfect for outdoor adventures and captivating views.

As evening approached, we made our way to Rifugio Fodom for dinner. This cozy mountain refuge offered a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the food was simply delicious. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by hearty portions of traditional Ladin dishes. Hans raved about the goulash, while Kati devoured a plate of homemade pasta. I opted for the grilled meat, which was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The Rifugio Fodom is known for blending traditional recipes with creativity, using fresh and local ingredients. To complete the experience, we enjoyed a bottle of local wine, savoring the flavors of the Dolomites as the sun set over the mountains.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine amidst breathtaking alpine scenery at Rifugio Fodom in the stunning Dolomites.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we decided to make a quick stop at Wine Bar Oma in Canazei. This cozy bar had a great selection of local wines and a relaxed atmosphere. I sampled a glass of Gewürztraminer, a white wine known for its aromatic and spicy notes, while Hans enjoyed a local beer. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day, savoring the flavors of the Dolomites and reflecting on the incredible experiences we had shared.


Discover the rich flavors of the Dolomites at Wine Bar Oma, where exquisite local wines and a cozy atmosphere await.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Parco Naturale Tre Cime, hike the Seceda Ridgeline, and visit the Laghetto di Passo Valles. I am already looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery in this beautiful corner of the world. I am also excited to visit Dolomiti Gioielli, a shop that I have heard offers unique jewelry [Kati loves jewelry].

What a day! I am excited for what tomorrow brings.