Family Adventure in the Dolomites: Exploring Italy's Majestic Peaks

A Day of Dolomite Dreams

Today was a beautiful blend of natural wonders and local charm as we explored more of the Dolomites. The crisp mountain air and stunning scenery made it a day to remember. It’s days like these that remind me why I love sharing our family's travel experiences with you all.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Albergo Ombrettola. The hotel is a cozy, family-run establishment, and the breakfast was a delightful spread of local cheeses, fresh bread, and strong coffee—just what we needed to fuel our adventures. Aisha, of course, made a beeline for the pastries, her eyes wide with excitement. Hans enjoyed a more traditional German-style breakfast, a little taste of home amidst the Italian Alps. I savored the local cheeses, always eager to immerse myself in the regional flavors. I even managed to practice a few German idioms with Hans over breakfast, a fun little tradition we've developed since moving to Bamberg.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Albergo Ombrettola in Falcade - where culinary excellence meets stunning alpine views.

After breakfast, we set off to explore Val di Fassa. The valley is stunning, with its dramatic peaks and verdant meadows. Even in May, there's a crispness to the air that invigorates the senses. We decided to take a leisurely hike along one of the many trails, enjoying the panoramic views. Aisha was particularly thrilled, pointing out every flower and butterfly we encountered. It’s heartwarming to see her so engaged with nature, a stark contrast to our life in the city. Val di Fassa is known for its extensive network of trails, catering to all levels of hikers. We opted for a relatively easy path, mindful of Aisha's little legs, but even this gentle stroll offered breathtaking vistas. The towering Dolomites surrounded us, their jagged peaks piercing the sky. I made sure to capture plenty of photos, eager to share the beauty of this place with you all.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures of Val di Fassa, a stunning valley in the Dolomites, perfect for all types of travelers.

The Dolomites are not just mountains; they are a symphony of stone and sky, a masterpiece painted by nature itself.

Our next stop was the Cascata del Passo San Pellegrino. The waterfall is a hidden gem, tucked away amidst lush greenery. The sound of the cascading water was incredibly soothing, and the air was filled with a refreshing mist. Aisha was fascinated by the waterfall, watching the water tumble down with childlike wonder. We spent some time simply enjoying the tranquility of the spot, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As we stood there, surrounded by the serene beauty of the falls, I couldn't help but reflect on how fortunate we are to experience such moments as a family. It's these shared experiences that strengthen our bond and create lasting memories.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Cascata del Passo San Pellegrino, a stunning waterfall nestled in the breathtaking Dolomites of Italy.

Lunch was at Col Alt, a restaurant recommended for its gourmet cuisine and stunning views. Getting there was an adventure in itself, involving a short cable car ride and a pleasant walk. The restaurant did not disappoint. The food was exquisite, a modern take on traditional South Tyrolean dishes. Hans and I savored every bite, while Aisha happily devoured a plate of homemade pasta. The views from the restaurant were simply breathtaking, a panoramic vista of the surrounding mountains. It was the perfect setting for a leisurely lunch, a chance to relax and soak in the beauty of the Dolomites. The restaurant is known for selecting high-quality ingredients, and Fabio, the owner, even produces his own olive oil in Sicily, which is used in the dishes. The wine list is also impressive, featuring a unique selection of Italian wines.


Experience authentic South Tyrolean cuisine at Col Alt while enjoying stunning views of Corvara's breathtaking landscapes.

After lunch, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy at Dolomiti Gioielli. I’m always on the lookout for unique, locally made jewelry, and this shop had a beautiful selection. I found a delicate silver necklace with a Dolomite-shaped pendant, a perfect memento of our trip. Aisha, of course, was drawn to the colorful bracelets and charms, and Hans surprised us both by picking out a matching set for mother and daughter. It was a sweet gesture, and I know we’ll both treasure these little reminders of our time in the Dolomites.


Explore Dolomiti Gioielli, where exquisite handcrafted jewelry meets the breathtaking beauty of the Dolomite mountains in Canazei.

For dinner, we chose Dolomites Geyser Restaurant Apres Ski, an intriguing underground restaurant in Pozza di Fassa. The restaurant is built into the side of a ski slope, and the interior is surprisingly modern and cozy. The cuisine is a blend of traditional and modern, and the atmosphere is lively and fun. We enjoyed a delicious meal of local specialties, accompanied by a bottle of regional wine. Aisha was particularly delighted by the unique setting, exploring the nooks and crannies of the underground space. The restaurant is known for its tasty dishes and cocktails. The staff is friendly and the service is fast. It's a popular spot for après-ski, with a lively atmosphere.


Discover exquisite alpine dining at Dolomites Geyser Restaurant Apres Ski in San Giovanni di Fassa – where flavor meets breathtaking views.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our adventures. Val di Fassa had charmed us with its natural beauty and local delights. From the stunning trails to the cascading waterfall, from the gourmet cuisine to the unique jewelry, every moment was a treasure. It’s experiences like these that make our family trips so special, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I’m already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to explore Passo Pordoi and Laghetto di Passo Valles. We'll start with breakfast at GIGIO PICOL Baita Ristorante, followed by lunch at Albergo Ristorante Baita Dovich, and dinner at Ostaria DaSté. We might even stop by El Festil for a drink. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings! I am also hoping to catch some local events while we are here, I saw that there is a weekly market in Pozza di Fassa. I’m also intrigued by the Ladin culture and might visit the Ladin Museum. The possibilities seem endless and I can’t wait to explore more of what this region has to offer.

“Travel is not just about seeing new places; it’s about creating new memories with the people you love.”

Until tomorrow, keep exploring!

P.S. I almost forgot! I did forget to pack sunscreen and binoculars, a rookie mistake on my part. Thankfully, the local shops had everything we needed. I will make sure to add them to my packing list next time! Also, there is the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup coming to Val di Fassa in June. It would be great to come back and experience that!