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

A Day Among Giants

Today was a day of epic proportions, quite literally! The Dolomites have a way of making you feel incredibly small yet profoundly connected to something ancient and powerful. Aisha was especially excited, her little eyes wide with wonder as we embarked on our adventure. Hans, ever the pragmatist, made sure we were well-prepared with extra snacks and water – a must when traveling with a 7-year-old! Today's journey through Parco Naturale Tre Cime and Val Pettorina was nothing short of breathtaking, a perfect blend of natural beauty and local culture. It’s days like these that remind me why I started this blog – to share these incredible experiences with all of you.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Parco Naturale Tre Cime, a stunning natural park in South Tyrol, Italy, known for its iconic peaks and diverse wildlife.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ristorante Stella Alpina. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our explorations. I opted for a traditional pastry, while Hans enjoyed a more substantial breakfast of eggs and local cheese. Aisha, of course, chose a chocolate croissant, her face lighting up with every bite. It's these small moments of joy that I cherish most when traveling with my family. The hotel prides itself on using local produce, which made the meal even more special.

Fueled and ready, we set off towards Parco Naturale Tre Cime. The drive itself was a visual feast, with towering peaks and lush green valleys stretching as far as the eye could see. As we approached the park, the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo came into view, their jagged silhouettes piercing the sky. The sheer scale of these mountains is humbling, a testament to the raw power of nature.

The mountains are calling and I must go. - John Muir

We decided to take a leisurely hike around the base of the Tre Cime, choosing a path that was manageable for Aisha. The trails were well-maintained, and the views were simply stunning. Every turn revealed a new postcard-perfect vista, and I found myself stopping frequently to capture the beauty with my camera. Aisha, with her boundless energy, was fascinated by the wildflowers that dotted the landscape, each one a tiny splash of color against the green backdrop. I tried to explain the history and geological formation of the Dolomites, but her attention was quickly diverted by a family of marmots scurrying across the path.

After a few hours of hiking, we worked up quite an appetite. Lunch was at Baita Dies Bis, a charming mountain hut nestled amidst the peaks. The restaurant is located at 2,200 meters, reachable by foot from Passo Valles, or via ski lift. We savored traditional dishes like *casunziei* (beetroot ravioli) and *canederli* (bread dumplings), each bite bursting with local flavors. The cozy atmosphere of the *baita*, combined with the panoramic views, made for an unforgettable dining experience. Aisha particularly enjoyed the *kaiserschmarrn*, a fluffy shredded pancake served with fruit compote – a sweet treat that was well-deserved after our morning hike.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Baita Dies Bis in Pie' Falcade – a must-visit restaurant for food lovers exploring the beautiful Province of Belluno.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we continued our journey to Val Pettorina. This valley, carved by the Pettorina stream, is a hidden gem in the Dolomites, offering a more tranquil and less crowded experience than some of the more popular spots. As we drove through the valley, we were struck by the charming villages and the traditional *tabià* (wooden barns) that dotted the landscape. The valley is known as the heart of the Dolomites.


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

We made a stop in Sottoguda, a picturesque village known for its artisan workshops and the stunning Serrai di Sottoguda gorge. This narrow canyon, carved over millennia by the Pettorina stream, is a natural wonder, with towering rock walls that seem to touch the sky. We strolled through the gorge, marveling at the icy waterfalls and the unique atmosphere. It's a place where nature's power is on full display, a reminder of the forces that have shaped this incredible landscape.

Before heading back to our vacation rental, we stopped at Arte del Bosco, a local shop showcasing handcrafted wooden items. I was immediately drawn to the intricate carvings and the beautiful craftsmanship. We purchased a small wooden bird as a souvenir, a reminder of our day spent exploring the natural wonders of the Dolomites. It’s always a pleasure to support local artisans and bring a piece of the region back home with us.


Discover unique handcrafted treasures at Arte del Bosco, a charming craft store in the heart of Falcade, Italy, reflecting local artistry and tradition.

For dinner, we chose Col de Cuk, a restaurant known for its stunning views and traditional cuisine. The restaurant is located at a high altitude, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks. We enjoyed a delicious meal of grilled meats and local vegetables, savoring the flavors of the Dolomites as the sun set over the mountains. The kids menu was of course a success with Aisha. As the day drew to a close, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared as a family. The Dolomites have a way of bringing people together, creating memories that will last a lifetime.


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

As I reflect on our day, I'm reminded of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the beauty that surrounds us. In our busy lives, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but taking the time to connect with nature and explore new places can be incredibly rewarding. The Dolomites have a way of putting things into perspective, reminding us of the power and beauty of the natural world.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Cascate Schiavaneis and Spiz de Soforcela. I've heard that the waterfalls are particularly stunning this time of year, and I'm excited to capture their beauty with my camera. We'll also be having breakfast at Rifugio Fuciade, lunch at Baita Al Lupo, and dinner at Queen Restaurant. And, if we have time, we might stop by Rosengarden for a drink. It promises to be another day of adventure and exploration, and I can't wait to share it with you all. I am especially excited to try some local spirits at the Rosengarden bar.

Until then, *bis bald* (see you soon)! I’m off to recharge for another day of Dolomite adventures. I hope you’ll join me!

Oh, and I almost forgot! I did manage to pick up some Dolomites-themed chocolate – a little treat to remind us of our adventures in this beautiful region. Aisha is already eyeing it, so I suspect it won't last long!