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ITALY: favorites

162 images Created 28 Sep 2011

View favorite Italy photos by Tom Dempsey, including: Venice, Saint Mark's Square (San Marco Piazza), Rialto, gondolas, Murano, Burano, Torcello, Dolomites mountains, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Sesto Group, Val Gardena, Val di Funes, Puez-Geisler (Odle) Park, Brenta Group, Marmolada, Passo Pordoi, Sella Group, Bindelweg/Viel del Pan trail, Rosengarten/Catinaccio Group, Bolzano's Iceman (Ötzi), Pala Group/Pale di San Martino, Monte Civetta, Monte Cristallo, waterfalls, and more.

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  • Riding the Rifugio Lagazuoi Funivia (cable car) reaches a scenic panorama of the Dolomites, improved by walking to Piccolo Lagazuoi (0.8 miles round trip with 400 feet gain). Rifugio Lagazuoi perches on the Ampezzo Dolomites above Falzarego Pass, halfway between Cortina d'Ampezzo and the Badia Valley, Belluno province, Italy, Europe. From the Refuge, one can walk 2.5 miles one way down 2200 feet on steep trails, optionally via dark slippery tunnels built in World War I (bring a flashlight). The Dolomites are honored on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
    23.07ALPS-3086-Pano-Edit.jpg
  • Riding the Rifugio Lagazuoi Funivia (cable car) reaches a scenic panorama of the Dolomites, improved by walking to Piccolo Lagazuoi (0.8 miles round trip with 400 feet gain). Rifugio Lagazuoi perches above Falzarego Pass, halfway between Cortina d'Ampezzo and the Badia Valley in the Dolomites, Belluno province, Italy, Europe. From the Refuge, one can walk 2.5 miles one way down 2200 feet on steep trails, optionally via dark slippery tunnels built in World War I (bring a flashlight). The Dolomites are honored on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
    23.07ALPS-3063.jpg
  • Riding the Rifugio Lagazuoi Funivia (cable car) reaches a scenic panorama of the Dolomites, improved by walking to Piccolo Lagazuoi (0.8 miles round trip with 400 feet gain). Rifugio Lagazuoi perches on the Ampezzo Dolomites above Falzarego Pass, halfway between Cortina d'Ampezzo and the Badia Valley, Belluno province, Italy, Europe. From the Refuge, one can walk 2.5 miles one way down 2200 feet on steep trails, optionally via dark slippery tunnels built in World War I (bring a flashlight). The Dolomites are honored on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
    23.07ALPS-3023.jpg
  • Glaciers on Marmolada, highest peak of the Dolomites, seen from Rifugio Lagazuoi, Italy, Europe. Marmolada / Marmolata / Marmolèda lies between the borders of Trentino and Veneto provinces in Italy. Riding the Rifugio Lagazuoi Funivia (cable car) reaches a scenic panorama of the Dolomites, improved by walking to Piccolo Lagazuoi (0.8 miles round trip with 400 feet gain). Rifugio Lagazuoi perches above Falzarego Pass, halfway between Cortina d'Ampezzo and the Badia Valley. From the Refuge, one can walk 2.5 miles one way down 2200 feet on steep trails, optionally via dark slippery tunnels built in World War I (bring a flashlight). The Dolomites are honored on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
    23.07ALPS-2998.jpg
  • The Upper two Laghi dei Piani (Lakes of Piani / Bödenseen) lie under the peak of Passportenkofel (Cime Passaporto) in the Sexten (Sesto) Dolomites Group, in South Tyrol province (AKA Alto Adige or the Autonomous Province of Bolzano), near Moso, Italy. A spectacular trail goes from Hotel Dolomitenhof in Fiscalina Valley to Zsigmondyhütte (Rifugio Zsigmondy-Comici) and Dreizinnenhütte (Rifugio Locatelli) (11.6 miles, 3880 feet) in Naturpark Drei Zinnen (Parco Naturale Tre Cime). Placenames in South Tyrol reflect the WWI stalemate between Austria-Hungary and Italy.
    23.07ALPS-2935-Pano.jpg
  • Dreizinnenhütte (Rifugio Locatelli) seen on the loop hike from Hotel Dolomitenhof in Fiscalina Valley to Zsigmondyhütte (Rifugio Zsigmondy-Comici) (11.6 miles, 3880 feet) in Naturpark Drei Zinnen (Parco Naturale Tre Cime) in the Sexten (Sesto) Dolomites Group, in South Tyrol province (AKA Alto Adige or the Autonomous Province of Bolzano), in Moso, Italy, Europe. Placenames in South Tyrol reflect the WWI stalemate between Austria-Hungary and Italy. On the left is the peak of Passportenkofel (Cime Passaporto). On the right are distinctive icons of the Alps known as Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Italian for "Three Peaks of Lavaredo," also called Drei Zinnen or "Three Merlons" in German). Until 1919 the peaks formed part of the border between Italy and Austria. Now they lie on the border between the Italian provinces of South Tyrol and Belluno and still are a part of the linguistic boundary between German-speaking and Italian-speaking majorities. Cima Grande rises to 2999 meters (9839 feet), between Cima Piccola 2857 m (9373 ft) and Cima Ovest or "Western Peak" 2973 m (9754 ft).
    23.07ALPS-2909-Pano.jpg
  • Zwölferkofel or Zwölfer or Croda dei Toni rises in the Sexten (Sesto) Dolomites on the border between the provinces of Belluno and South Tyrol (AKA Alto Adige or the Autonomous Province of Bolzano), in Naturpark Drei Zinnen (Parco Naturale Tre Cime), Italy, Europe. A spectacular loop trail goes from Hotel Dolomitenhof in Fiscalina Valley to Zsigmondyhütte (Rifugio Zsigmondy-Comici) and Dreizinnenhütte (Rifugio Locatelli) (11.6 miles, 3880 feet). Placenames in South Tyrol reflect the WWI stalemate between Austria-Hungary and Italy.
    23.07ALPS-2774.jpg
  • Zwölferkofel or Zwölfer or Croda dei Toni rises above Zsigmondyhütte / Rifugio Comici in the Sexten (Sesto) Dolomites on the border between the provinces of Belluno and South Tyrol (AKA Alto Adige or the Autonomous Province of Bolzano), in Naturpark Drei Zinnen (Parco Naturale Tre Cime), Italy, Europe. A spectacular loop trail goes from Hotel Dolomitenhof in Fiscalina Valley to Zsigmondyhütte (Rifugio Zsigmondy-Comici) and Dreizinnenhütte (Rifugio Locatelli) (11.6 miles, 3880 feet). Placenames in South Tyrol reflect the WWI stalemate between Austria-Hungary and Italy.
    23.07ALPS-2738-Pano.jpg
  • Zwölferkofel or Zwölfer or Croda dei Toni rises in the Sexten (Sesto) Dolomites on the border between the provinces of Belluno and South Tyrol (AKA Alto Adige or the Autonomous Province of Bolzano), in Naturpark Drei Zinnen (Parco Naturale Tre Cime), Italy, Europe. A spectacular loop trail goes from Hotel Dolomitenhof in Fiscalina Valley to Zsigmondyhütte (Rifugio Zsigmondy-Comici) and Dreizinnenhütte (Rifugio Locatelli) (11.6 miles, 3880 feet). Placenames in South Tyrol reflect the WWI stalemate between Austria-Hungary and Italy.
    23.07ALPS-2714.jpg
  • Bistro Bergsteiger in Fiscalina Valley. A spectacular loop goes hike from Hotel Dolomitenhof in Fiscalina Valley to Zsigmondyhütte (Rifugio Zsigmondy-Comici) and Dreizinnenhütte (Rifugio Locatelli) (11.6 miles, 3880 feet) in Naturpark Drei Zinnen (Parco Naturale Tre Cime), in the Sexten (Sesto) Dolomites Group, in South Tyrol province (AKA Alto Adige or the Autonomous Province of Bolzano), in Moso, Italy, Europe. Placenames in South Tyrol reflect the WWI stalemate between Austria-Hungary and Italy.
    23.07ALPS-2690.jpg
  • View the Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Italian for "Three Peaks of Lavaredo," also called Drei Zinnen) from Parkplatz Drei Zinnenblick (Parcheggio punto panoramico Tre Cime) near Dürrensee (Lago di Landroin), Sesto Dolomites, Belluno province, Italy, Europe.
    23.07ALPS-2677.jpg
  • Lake Misurina, largest alpine lake in the Dolomites, Auronzo di Cadore, Belluno province, Italy, Europe.
    23.07ALPS-2672.jpg
  • The south face of pyramidal Tofana di Rozes (3,225 meters or 10,581 ft) rises above Falzarego Pass in the Tofane group of Dolomites, near Cortina d'Ampezzo, Belluno province, Italy, Europe.
    23.07ALPS-2668.jpg
  • Alpenrose (Rhododendron ferrugineum) blooms reddish-pink below Forcella de Formin pass, on the Giro Croda da Lago trail, in the Croda da Lago-Formin-Cernera group of Dolomites, near Cortina d'Ampezzo, Belluno province, Italy, Europe. Hike around the Croda da Lago clockwise with a rough rocky descent (loop 8.2 miles with 2800 feet gain and loss), starting from the trailhead at "Ponte de Ru Curto" below Passo di Giau, above Cortina d'Ampezzo. The easier walk to and from Lago Federa is 5 miles with 1650 feet gain.
    23.07ALPS-2655-Pano.jpg
  • Cortina d'Ampezzo town seen from Forcella Ambrizzola pass, in the Croda da Lago-Formin-Cernera group of Dolomites, Belluno province, Italy, Europe. Hike around the Croda da Lago clockwise with a rough rocky descent (loop 8.2 miles with 2800 feet gain and loss), starting from the trailhead at "Ponte de Ru Curto" below Passo di Giau, above Cortina d'Ampezzo. The easier walk to and from Lago Federa is 5 miles with 1650 feet gain.
    23.07ALPS-2612.jpg
  • Lago Federa on the Giro Croda da Lago trail, in the Croda da Lago-Formin-Cernera group of Dolomites, near Cortina d'Ampezzo, Belluno province, Italy, Europe. Hike around the Croda da Lago clockwise with a rough rocky descent (loop 8.2 miles with 2800 feet gain and loss), starting from the trailhead at "Ponte de Ru Curto" below Passo di Giau, above Cortina d'Ampezzo. The easier walk to and from Lago Federa is 5 miles with 1650 feet gain.
    23.07ALPS-2513-Pano.jpg
  • Loop hike the Cadini di Misurina via Rifugio Savio (5-mile circuit with 1850 feet gain) from Chalet Lago d’Antorno Trailhead in the Sesto Dolomites, near Cortina d'Ampezzo, Belluno province, Italy, Europe. The Cadini di Misurina are part of the Dolomites subsection of Sesto, of Braies, and of Ampezzo, and belong to the municipality of Auronzo di Cadore.
    23.07ALPS-2463.jpg
  • On the moderate trail to Lago Sorapiss, people with fear of heights may be concerned by several narrow ledges along cliffs which others find exciting. Fixed wires are installed to grab for security. Start this hike early in the morning to avoid crowded backups where the exposed trail narrows. Hike to Lago Sorapiss and Rifugio Vandelli from B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina on SR48 (7 miles round trip with 1350 feet gain) in the Sorapiss Range of the Dolomites, Belluno province, Italy, Europe. The trailhead parking is along SR48 and in a free gravel lot west of and below B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina (don't park in the hotel's lot). The mountain ski resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo (Anpëz in Ladin, Hayden in German) lies at 1224 meters or 4016 feet elevation at the head of Valle del Boite.
    23.07ALPS-2388.jpg
  • Alpenrose (Rhododendron ferrugineum) blooming in late July at Lago Sorapiss, near Rifugio Vandelli, in the Sorapiss Range of the Dolomites, Belluno province, Italy, Europe. Hike to Lago Sorapiss and Rifugio Vandelli from B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina on SR48 (7 miles round trip with 1350 feet gain). The trailhead parking is along SR48 and in a free gravel lot west of and below B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina (don't park in the hotel's lot). Start this hike early in the morning to avoid crowded backups where the exposed trail narrows. Those with fear of heights may be concerned by several narrow ledges along cliffs which others find exciting. Fixed wires are installed to grab for security. The mountain ski resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo (Anpëz in Ladin, Hayden in German) lies at 1224 meters or 4016 feet elevation at the head of Valle del Boite.
    23.07ALPS-2345-Pano.jpg
  • Hiking scenes in Val Ferret above Rifugio Elena in Italy towards Grand Col Ferret.. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 6: hike from Walter Bonatti Refuge in Italy to Hotel Edelweiss in La Fouly, Switzerland, Europe (12.9 miles with 3000 feet ascent, 4300 ft descent).
    22ALP-05457.jpg
  • Gentiana purpurea / purple gentian in Val Ferret, Italy, Europe. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 6: hike from Walter Bonatti Refuge in Italy to Hotel Edelweiss in La Fouly, Switzerland (12.9 miles with 3000 feet ascent, 4300 ft descent).
    22ALP-05378.jpg
  • Scenes of hiking in Val Ferret above Bonatti Refuge in Italy towards Grand Col Ferret. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 6: hike from Walter Bonatti Refuge in Italy to Hotel Edelweiss in La Fouly, Switzerland, Europe (12.9 miles with 3000 feet ascent, 4300 ft descent).
    22ALP-05298-306-Pano-Edit.jpg
  • Scenes of hiking in Val Ferret above Bonatti Refuge in Italy towards Grand Col Ferret. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 6: hike from Walter Bonatti Refuge in Italy to Hotel Edelweiss in La Fouly, Switzerland, Europe (12.9 miles with 3000 feet ascent, 4300 ft descent).
    22ALP-05284.jpg
  • Anemone seed head. TMB trek Day 6: hike from Bonatti Refuge in Italy > La Fouly, Switzerland, Europe
    20220710_082813.jpg
  • Scenes of hiking in Val Ferret above Bonatti Refuge in Italy towards Grand Col Ferret. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 6: hike from Walter Bonatti Refuge in Italy to Hotel Edelweiss in La Fouly, Switzerland, Europe (12.9 miles with 3000 feet ascent, 4300 ft descent).
    22ALP-05174-80-Pano.jpg
  • Scenes from Bonatti Refuge at sunrise in Val Ferret, Italy, Europe. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 6: hike from Walter Bonatti Refuge in Italy to Hotel Edelweiss in La Fouly, Switzerland (12.9 miles with 3000 feet ascent, 4300 ft descent).
    22ALP-05137-47-Pano.jpg
  • Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 6: hike from Walter Bonatti Refuge in Italy to Hotel Edelweiss in La Fouly, Switzerland, Europe (12.9 miles with 3000 feet ascent, 4300 ft descent).
    22ALP-05130.jpg
  • Scenes from Bonatti Refuge at sunrise in Val Ferret, Italy, Europe. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 6: hike from Walter Bonatti Refuge in Italy to Hotel Edelweiss in La Fouly, Switzerland (12.9 miles with 3000 feet ascent, 4300 ft descent).
    22ALP-05036.jpg
  • Sunset at Bonatti Refuge in Val Ferret, Italy, the Alps, Europe. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 5: I hiked from Courmayeur via the Mont de la Saxe option to Walter Bonatti Refuge (10 miles with 5200 feet ascent, 2700 ft descent) (whereas the standard TMB route hiked separately by Carol was 8 miles with 3300 ft up, 700 ft down).
    22ALP-05006.jpg
  • Sunset at Bonatti Refuge in Val Ferret, Italy, the Alps, Europe. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 5: I hiked from Courmayeur via the Mont de la Saxe option to Walter Bonatti Refuge (10 miles with 5200 feet ascent, 2700 ft descent) (whereas the standard TMB route hiked separately by Carol was 8 miles with 3300 ft up, 700 ft down).
    22ALP-04973.jpg
  • Scenes from Bonatti Refuge in Val Ferret, Italy, the Alps, Europe. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 5: I hiked from Courmayeur via the Mont de la Saxe option to Walter Bonatti Refuge (10 miles with 5200 feet ascent, 2700 ft descent) (whereas the standard TMB route hiked separately by Carol was 8 miles with 3300 ft up, 700 ft down).
    22ALP-04884.jpg
  • Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 5: I hiked from Courmayeur via the Mont de la Saxe option to Walter Bonatti Refuge in Italy, Europe (10 miles with 5200 feet ascent, 2700 ft descent) (whereas the standard TMB route hiked separately by Carol was 8 miles with 3300 ft up, 700 ft down).
    22ALP-04528-29_32-Pano.jpg
  • Six-spot Burnet moths (Zygaena filipendulae, a black insect with 6 red wing spots, in the Zygaenidae family) sip nectar from a Knapweed (Centaurea) flower. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 5: I hiked from Courmayeur via the Mont de la Saxe option to Walter Bonatti Refuge in Italy, Europe (10 miles with 5200 feet ascent, 2700 ft descent) (whereas the standard TMB route hiked separately by Carol was 8 miles with 3300 ft up, 700 ft down).
    22ALP-04445.jpg
  • View Mont Blanc from Pointe Helbronner station of Skyway Monte Bianco cable car, Courmayeur, Italy, Europe. The Skyway Monte Bianco opened in 2015 in the Italian Alps, linking the town of Courmayeur with Pointe Helbronner on the southern side of the Mont Blanc massif.
    22ALP-03835-42-Pano.jpg
  • Dolonne, an historic neighborhood of Courmayeur, in Aosta Valley, Italy, Europe
    22ALP-03680.jpg
  • Dolonne, an historic neighborhood of Courmayeur, in Aosta Valley, Italy, Europe
    22ALP-03669.jpg
  • TMB trek Day 4: the Mont Blanc massif reflects in Lac des Vesses, in Val Veny, near Courmayeur, Italy, Europe Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 4: hike from Elisabetta Refuge in Val Veny to Hotel Pavillion in Courmayeur (walking 6.9 miles with 1600 feet ascent and 2320 ft descent along the main TMB ridge route to Rifugio Maison Vieille, then taking the chairlift from Col Chécrouit and gondola lift down to Dolonne).
    22ALP-03579-80-Pano.jpg
  • TMB trek Day 4: the Mont Blanc massif rises above Val Veny, above La Visaille, near Courmayeur, Italy, Europe. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 4: hike from Elisabetta Refuge in Val Veny to Hotel Pavillion in Courmayeur (walking 6.9 miles with 1600 feet ascent and 2320 ft descent along the main TMB ridge route to Rifugio Maison Vieille, then taking the chairlift from Col Chécrouit and gondola lift down to Dolonne).
    22ALP-03558.jpg
  • TMB trek Day 4: the Mont Blanc massif rises above Val Veny, above La Visaille, near Courmayeur, Italy, Europe. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 4: hike from Elisabetta Refuge in Val Veny to Hotel Pavillion in Courmayeur (walking 6.9 miles with 1600 feet ascent and 2320 ft descent along the main TMB ridge route to Rifugio Maison Vieille, then taking the chairlift from Col Chécrouit and gondola lift down to Dolonne).
    22ALP-03523-29-Pano-Edit.jpg
  • Cobweb Houseleek (Sempervivum arachnoideum), Val Veny, Courmayeur, Italy, Europe . Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 4: hike from Elisabetta Refuge in Val Veny to Hotel Pavillion in Courmayeur (walking 6.9 miles with 1600 feet ascent and 2320 ft descent along the main TMB ridge route to Rifugio Maison Vieille, then taking the chairlift from Col Chécrouit and gondola lift down to Dolonne).
    22ALP-03482.jpg
  • Below the Mont Blanc massif lie the stone and timber ruins of Alpe inférieur de l'Arp Vieille, in Val Veny, near Courmayeur, Italy, Europe. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 4: hike from Elisabetta Refuge in Val Veny to Hotel Pavillion in Courmayeur, Italy, Europe (walking 6.9 miles with 1600 feet ascent and 2320 ft descent along the main TMB ridge route to Rifugio Maison Vieille, then taking the chairlift from Col Chécrouit and gondola lift down to Dolonne).
    22ALP-03381-91-Pano.jpg
  • TMB trek Day 4: the Mont Blanc massif rises above sheep in Val Veny above La Visaille, near Courmayeur, Italy, Europe. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 4: hike from Elisabetta Refuge in Val Veny to Hotel Pavillion in Courmayeur (walking 6.9 miles with 1600 feet ascent and 2320 ft descent along the main TMB ridge route to Rifugio Maison Vieille, then taking the chairlift from Col Chécrouit and gondola lift down to Dolonne).
    22ALP-03340-44-Pano.jpg
  • Pink alpenrose flowers / Rhododendron ferrugineum at sunrise near Elisabetta Refuge, Courmayeur, Italy, Europe. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 4: hike from Elisabetta Refuge in Val Veny to Hotel Pavillion in Courmayeur (walking 6.9 miles with 1600 feet ascent and 2320 ft descent along the main TMB ridge route to Rifugio Maison Vieille, then taking the chairlift from Col Chécrouit and gondola lift down to Dolonne).
    20220706_061505.jpg
  • Sunrise scenes around Elisabetta Refuge, near Courmayeur, Italy, Europe. Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 4: hike from Elisabetta Refuge in Val Veny to Hotel Pavillion in Courmayeur (walking 6.9 miles with 1600 feet ascent and 2320 ft descent along the main TMB ridge route to Rifugio Maison Vieille, then taking the chairlift from Col Chécrouit and gondola lift down to Dolonne).
    22ALP-03146.jpg
  • Cobweb Houseleek (Sempervivum arachnoideum). Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trek Day 3: hike from Les Chapieux in France via Col de la Seigne to Elisabetta Refuge in Val Veny, Italy, Europe (8.8 miles miles with 3450 feet ascent, 1440 ft descent).
    22ALP-03026.jpg
  • Saint Sylvester's Chapel (San Silvestro) in Vallunga is dedicated to the patron saint of cattle and contains 300-year-old frescoes (depicting the life of Jesus), in Val Gardena, Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy, Europe. Vallunga/Langental valley is preserved in Puez-Geisler Nature Park. The beautiful ski resort of Selva di Val Gardena (German: Wolkenstein in Gröden; Ladin: Sëlva Gherdëine) makes a great hiking base in the Dolomites, in the South Tyrol region (Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol) of Italy. For our favorite hike in the Dolomiti, start from Selva with the first morning bus to Ortisei, take the Seceda lift, admire great views up at the cross on the edge of Val di Funes (Villnöss), then walk 12 miles (2000 feet up, 5000 feet down) via the steep pass Furcela Forces De Sieles (Forcella Forces de Sielles) to beautiful Vallunga (trail #2 to 16), finishing where you started in Selva. The hike traverses the Geisler/Odle and Puez Groups from verdant pastures to alpine wonders, all preserved in a vast Nature Park: Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles). UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 4 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-50542-45pan_Vallunga_Dolomites.jpg
  • A short ascent to Wolkenstein Castle gives a good view over Vallunga/Langental valley, in Puez-Geisler Nature Park, Val Gardena, Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy, Europe. The beautiful ski resort of Selva di Val Gardena (German: Wolkenstein in Gröden; Ladin: Sëlva Gherdëine) makes a great hiking base in the Dolomites, in the South Tyrol region (Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol) of Italy, Europe. For our favorite hike in the Dolomiti, start from Selva with the first morning bus to Ortisei, take the Seceda lift, admire great views up at the cross on the edge of Val di Funes (Villnöss), then walk 12 miles (2000 feet up, 5000 feet down) via the steep pass Furcela Forces De Sieles (Forcella Forces de Sielles) to beautiful Vallunga (trail #2 to 16), finishing where you started in Selva. The hike traverses the Geisler/Odle and Puez Groups from verdant pastures to alpine wonders, all preserved in a vast Nature Park: Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles). UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 2 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-50515-16pan_Vallunga_Dolomites.jpg
  • Wolkenstein Castle was built in the 1200s, was named for a 1400s troubadour, collapsed in 1525 AD, was rebuilt but then fell into disrepair. Vallunga/Langental valley makes a perfect walking destination in Puez-Geisler Nature Park, in Val Gardena, Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy, Europe. The beautiful ski resort of Selva di Val Gardena (German: Wolkenstein in Gröden; Ladin: Sëlva Gherdëine) makes a great hiking base in the Dolomites, in the South Tyrol region (Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol). For our favorite hike in the Dolomiti, start from Selva with the first morning bus to Ortisei, take the Seceda lift, admire great views up at the cross on the edge of Val di Funes (Villnöss), then walk 12 miles (2000 feet up, 5000 feet down) via the steep pass Furcela Forces De Sieles (Forcella Forces de Sielles) to beautiful Vallunga (trail #2 to 16), finishing where you started in Selva. The hike traverses the Geisler/Odle and Puez Groups from verdant pastures to alpine wonders, all preserved in a vast Nature Park: Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles). UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 8 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-50493-501pan_Vallunga_Dolomite...jpg
  • A hiker walks up a quiet road in Vallunga/Langental valley, Puez-Geisler Nature Park, Val Gardena, Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy, Europe. The beautiful ski resort of Selva di Val Gardena (German: Wolkenstein in Gröden; Ladin: Sëlva Gherdëine) makes a great hiking base in the Dolomites, in the South Tyrol region (Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol) of Italy, Europe. For our favorite hike in the Dolomiti, start from Selva with the first morning bus to Ortisei, take the Seceda lift, admire great views up at the cross on the edge of Val di Funes (Villnöss), then walk 12 miles (2000 feet up, 5000 feet down) via the steep pass Furcela Forces De Sieles (Forcella Forces de Sielles) to beautiful Vallunga (trail #2 to 16), finishing where you started in Selva. The hike traverses the Geisler/Odle and Puez Groups from verdant pastures to alpine wonders, all preserved in a vast Nature Park: Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles). UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-50442_Vallunga_Dolomites.jpg
  • Walk an idyllic path in Selva di Val Gardena village beneath Langkofel/Sassolungo peak on your way to Vallunga, in the Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy, Europe. The beautiful ski resort of Selva di Val Gardena (German: Wolkenstein in Gröden; Ladin: Sëlva Gherdëine) makes a great hiking base in the Dolomites, in the South Tyrol region (Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol) of Italy, Europe. For our favorite hike in the Dolomiti, start from Selva with the first morning bus to Ortisei, take the Seceda lift, admire great views up at the cross on the edge of Val di Funes (Villnöss), then walk 12 miles (2000 feet up, 5000 feet down) via the steep pass Furcela Forces De Sieles (Forcella Forces de Sielles) to beautiful Vallunga (trail #2 to 16), finishing where you started in Selva. The hike traverses the Geisler/Odle and Puez Groups from verdant pastures to alpine wonders, all preserved in a vast Nature Park: Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles). UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-50431_Langkofel-Sassolungo-Dol...jpg
  • A bee gathers nectar and pollinates a purple knapweed flower (Centaurea genus), at Passo Cibiana, Dolomites, part of the Southern Limestone Alps, Italy, Europe. Centaurea is a genus of hundreds of species of herbaceous thistle-like flowering plants (commonly called knapweed, starthistle, centaury, or centory) in the family Asteraceae. Centaurea are found only north of the equator. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-50305_bee_Centaurea.jpg
  • Cattle graze a green field high in the Dolomite mountains. See the Sorapiss Group (right, 3205m/10,515 ft) across a pasture just south of Lake Misurina (address: 32041 Auronzo di Cadore), in the Province of Belluno, Veneto region, Italy. Lago di Misurina is only 14 km from Cortina d’Ampezzo. The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, in northern Italy, Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-50258_Sorapiss-Dolomites.jpg
  • Sharp peaks of the Cadini Group rise in the Sesto Dolomites, Veneto region, Italy, Europe. In the Cadini di Misurina, Cima Grande rises to 2999 meters (9839 feet), between Cima Piccola and Cima Ovest. The Cadini Group is in the municipality of Auronzo, in the Sesto Dolomites (Dolomiti di Sesto, or Sexten/Sextner/Sextener Dolomiten) which lie north of the Fiume Ansiei valley. From the Rifugio Auronzo toll road, hike for spectacular views around Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Italian for "Three Peaks of Lavaredo," called Drei Zinnen or "Three Merlons" in German). The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-50197_Cadini-Group-Dolomites.jpg
  • Hikers admire sharp peaks of the Cadini Group in the Sesto Dolomites, Veneto region, Italy, Europe. In the Cadini di Misurina, Cima Grande rises to 2999 meters (9839 feet), between Cima Piccola and Cima Ovest. The Cadini Group is in the municipality of Auronzo, in the Sesto Dolomites (Dolomiti di Sesto, or Sexten/Sextner/Sextener Dolomiten) which lie north of the Fiume Ansiei valley. From the Rifugio Auronzo toll road, hike for spectacular views around Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Italian for "Three Peaks of Lavaredo," called Drei Zinnen or "Three Merlons" in German). The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-50085-p1a_Cadini-Group-Dolomit...jpg
  • Hikers admire sharp peaks of the Cadini Group in the Sesto Dolomites, Veneto region, Italy, Europe. In the Cadini di Misurina, Cima Grande rises to 2999 meters (9839 feet), between Cima Piccola and Cima Ovest. The Cadini Group is in the municipality of Auronzo, in the Sesto Dolomites (Dolomiti di Sesto, or Sexten/Sextner/Sextener Dolomiten) which lie north of the Fiume Ansiei valley. From the Rifugio Auronzo toll road, hike for spectacular views around Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Italian for "Three Peaks of Lavaredo," called Drei Zinnen or "Three Merlons" in German). The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-50078-p1_Cadini-Group-Dolomite...jpg
  • Hikers admire sharp peaks of the Cadini Group in the Sesto Dolomites, Veneto region, Italy, Europe. In the Cadini di Misurina, Cima Grande rises to 2999 meters (9839 feet), between Cima Piccola and Cima Ovest. The Cadini Group is in the municipality of Auronzo, in the Sesto Dolomites (Dolomiti di Sesto, or Sexten/Sextner/Sextener Dolomiten) which lie north of the Fiume Ansiei valley. From the Rifugio Auronzo toll road, hike for spectacular views around Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Italian for "Three Peaks of Lavaredo," called Drei Zinnen or "Three Merlons" in German). The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-50065-p1a_Cadini-Group-Dolomit...jpg
  • A hiker admires sharp peaks of the Cadini Group in the Sesto Dolomites, Italy, Europe. In the Cadini di Misurina, Cima Grande rises to 2999 meters (9839 feet), between Cima Piccola and Cima Ovest. The Cadini Group is in the Sesto Dolomites (Dolomiti di Sesto, or Sexten/Sextner/Sextener Dolomiten) which lie north of the Fiume Ansiei valley, in the municipality of Auronzo. From the Rifugio Auronzo toll road, hike for spectacular views around Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Italian for "Three Peaks of Lavaredo," called Drei Zinnen or "Three Merlons" in German). The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-50021_Cadini-Group-Dolomites.jpg
  • From Rifugio Guido Lorenzi on Monte Cristallo in the Ampezzo Dolomites, look northeast across blue ridges of the Sesto Dolomites (Dolomiti di Sesto, or Sexten/Sextner/Sextener Dolomiten) to the pyramids of Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Italian for "Three Peaks of Lavaredo," called Drei Zinnen or "Three Merlons" in German). A lift to Forcella Staunies on Monte Cristallo gives unforgettable views over the Dolomites mountains (part of the Southern Limestone Alps) near Cortina d'Ampezzo, in the Province of Belluno, Veneto region, Italy, Europe. Monte Cristallo lies within Parco Naturale delle Dolomiti d'Ampezzo. Directions: From Cortina, drive 6km east on SR48 to the large parking lot for Ski Area Faloria Cristallo Mietres (just west of Passo Tre Croci Federavecchia). Take a chair-lift from Rio Gere to Son Forca (rising from 1698m to 2215m). Then take the old style ovovia (egg-shaped) Gondellift Forcella Staunies to Rifugio Guido Lorenzi (2932m) for astounding views. Climbers enjoy spectacular via ferrata routes here. Cortina gained worldwide fame after hosting the 1956 Winter Olympics. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 8 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-40194-201pan_atop-Monte-Crista...jpg
  • From Rifugio Guido Lorenzi on Monte Cristallo in the Ampezzo Dolomites, look northeast across blue ridges of the Sesto Dolomites (Dolomiti di Sesto, or Sexten/Sextner/Sextener Dolomiten) towards the pyramids of Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Italian for "Three Peaks of Lavaredo," called Drei Zinnen or "Three Merlons" in German). A lift to Forcella Staunies on Monte Cristallo gives unforgettable views over the Dolomites mountains (part of the Southern Limestone Alps) near Cortina d'Ampezzo, in the Province of Belluno, Veneto region, Italy, Europe. Monte Cristallo lies within Parco Naturale delle Dolomiti d'Ampezzo. Directions: From Cortina, drive 6km east on SR48 to the large parking lot for Ski Area Faloria Cristallo Mietres (just west of Passo Tre Croci Federavecchia). Take a chair-lift from Rio Gere to Son Forca (rising from 1698m to 2215m). Then take the old style ovovia (egg-shaped) Gondellift Forcella Staunies to Rifugio Guido Lorenzi (2932m) for astounding views. Climbers enjoy spectacular via ferrata routes here. Cortina gained worldwide fame after hosting the 1956 Winter Olympics. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 2 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-40174-75pan_atop-Monte-Cristal...jpg
  • A lift to Forcella Staunies on Monte Cristallo gives unforgettable views over the Sesto and other Dolomites mountains near Cortina d'Ampezzo, in the Province of Belluno, Veneto region, Italy, Europe. Monte Cristallo lies within Parco Naturale delle Dolomiti d'Ampezzo. Directions: From Cortina, drive 6km east on SR48 to the large parking lot for Ski Area Faloria Cristallo Mietres (just west of Passo Tre Croci Federavecchia). Take a chair-lift from Rio Gere to Son Forca (rising from 1698m to 2215m). Then take the old style ovovia (egg-shaped) Gondellift Forcella Staunies to Rifugio Guido Lorenzi (2932m) for astounding views. Climbers enjoy spectacular via ferrata routes here. The ski resort of Cortina d'Ampezzo (Ladin: Anpëz, German: Hayden, at 1224 meters/4016 feet) lies at the head of Valle del Boite surrounded by the beautiful Dolomiti, part of the Southern Limestone Alps. Cortina gained worldwide fame after hosting the 1956 Winter Olympics. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-40100_Monte-Cristallo_Dolomite...jpg
  • Rays of setting sun backlight the Parish Church of St. Nicholas (Nikolauskirche; dedicated to San Nicolò; consecrated in 1507), in Winnebach (Prato Drava) village, Sesto Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy, Europe. For cheaper lodging in Val Pusteria (Pustertal), try Winnebach (Prato alla Drava) village near the Austrian border, beneath the Sexten/Sesto Dolomites (Italian: Dolomiti di Sesto; German: Sextener Dolomiten), in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol (South Tyrol), Italy. Winnebach (Prato Drava) is in the comune (municipality) of Innichen/San Candido. The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, in Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-30313_Winnebach_Prato-Drava_Pu...jpg
  • A short, steep walk from Rotwand lift takes you to an impressive overlook of Val Fiscalina (Fischleintal) and Croda Rossa di Sesto peak, also known as Cima Dieci and Sextener Rotwand (left, 9728 feet/2965 meters). From Bagni di Moso near Sesto in Val Pusteria (Pustertal), take the Rotwand lift (gondola) to Prati di Croda Rossa meadows for scenic walks in the Sesto Dolomites (Dolomiti di Sesto / Sexten / Sextner / Sextener Dolomiten). A short way up trail #100 offers a good overlook of Val Fiscalina (Fischleintal), in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol (South Tyrol), Italy. The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 6 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-30279-84pan_Val-Fiscalina_Dolo...jpg
  • The Baroque, onion-domed Church of St. Johann in Ranui was built in 1744 and dedicated to Saint Johannes Nepomuk. The Geisler/Odle Group of Dolomites mountains rises nearly 1000 meters above the church in Val di Funes (Villnöß valley), Italy. John of Nepomuk, or Nepomucenea, is a national saint of the Czech Republic, the first martyr of the Seal of the Confessional, a patron against calumnies, and a protector from floods. The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-30201_St-Johann-in-Ranui_Geisl...jpg
  • Views of the Geisler/Odle Group and a church in St. Magdalena (Santa Maddalena) village are iconic of the Dolomites mountains. See the valley and municipality of Funes (Villnöss) in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol (South Tyrol), Italy. Enjoy great hiking here in the vast Nature Park of Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles). The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 3 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-30175-77pan_Geisler-Odle-Dolom...jpg
  • Mountain bikers push their bicycles up the Panoramaweg/Panorama Trail. Views of the Geisler/Odle Group and a church in St. Magdalena (Santa Maddalena) village are iconic of the Dolomites mountains. See the valley and municipality of Funes (Villnöss) in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol (South Tyrol), Italy. Enjoy great hiking here in the vast Nature Park of Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles). The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-30148_Geisler-Odle-Dolomites.jpg
  • Church in Santa Maddalena village, Val di Funes (Villnöss), Dolomites, Italy, Europe. See the valley and municipality of Funes (Villnöss) in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol (South Tyrol), Italy. Enjoy great hiking here in the vast Nature Park of Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles). The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-30080_Santa-Maddalena_Funes-Vi...jpg
  • A Six-spot Burnet moth (Zygaena filipendulae, a black insect with 6 red wing spots, in the Zygaenidae family) sips nectar from a Knapweed (Centaurea genus) flower in the Dolomites, Italy, the Alps, Europe. Geisler/Odle Group, near St. Magdalena (Santa Maddalena). See the valley and municipality of Funes (Villnöss) in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol (South Tyrol), Italy. Enjoy great hiking here in the vast Nature Park of Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles). The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-30033_Six-spot-Burnet-moth_kna...jpg
  • Views of the Geisler/Odle Group and a church in St. Magdalena (Santa Maddalena) village are iconic of the Dolomites mountains. See the valley and municipality of Funes (Villnöss) in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol (South Tyrol), Italy. Enjoy great hiking here in the vast Nature Park of Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles). The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-30023_Geisler-Odle-Dolomites.jpg
  • Old window with fresco and flowers, in St. Magdalena (Santa Maddalena) village in the valley and municipality of Funes (Villnöss) in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol (South Tyrol), Italy. Enjoy great hiking here in the vast Nature Park of Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles). The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, in Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-30010.jpg
  • Vallunga/Langental, Puez Group, Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy, Europe. The beautiful ski resort of Selva di Val Gardena (German: Wolkenstein in Gröden; Ladin: Sëlva Gherdëine) makes a great hiking base in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol (South Tyrol) region of Italy. For our favorite hike in the Dolomiti, start from Selva with the first morning bus to Ortisei or St. Christina, take the Seceda lift, admire great views up at the cross on the edge of Val di Funes (Villnöss), then walk 12 miles (2000 feet up, 5000 feet down) via the steep pass Furcela Forces De Sieles (Forcella Forces de Sielles) to beautiful Vallunga (trail #2 to 16), finishing where you started in Selva. The hike traverses the Geisler/Odle and Puez Groups from verdant pastures to alpine wonders, all preserved in a vast Nature Park: Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles), including the deeply glaciated U-shaped valley of Vallunga (Langental). As sheep and cows graze en route, Saint Sylvester's Chapel (San Silvestro) in Vallunga is fittingly dedicated to the patron saint of cattle and contains 300-year-old frescoes depicting the life of Jesus. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 7 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-21240-46pan_Vallunga_Naturpark...jpg
  • Vallunga/Langental, Puez Group, Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy, Europe. The beautiful ski resort of Selva di Val Gardena (German: Wolkenstein in Gröden; Ladin: Sëlva Gherdëine) makes a great hiking base in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol (South Tyrol) region of Italy. For our favorite hike in the Dolomiti, start from Selva with the first morning bus to Ortisei or St. Christina, take the Seceda lift, admire great views up at the cross on the edge of Val di Funes (Villnöss), then walk 12 miles (2000 feet up, 5000 feet down) via the steep pass Furcela Forces De Sieles (Forcella Forces de Sielles) to beautiful Vallunga (trail #2 to 16), finishing where you started in Selva. The hike traverses the Geisler/Odle and Puez Groups from verdant pastures to alpine wonders, all preserved in a vast Nature Park: Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles), including the deeply glaciated U-shaped valley of Vallunga (Langental). As sheep and cows graze en route, Saint Sylvester's Chapel (San Silvestro) in Vallunga is fittingly dedicated to the patron saint of cattle and contains 300-year-old frescoes depicting the life of Jesus. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 8 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-21197-204pan_Vallunga_Naturpar...jpg
  • Vallunga/Langental, Puez Group, Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy, Europe. The beautiful ski resort of Selva di Val Gardena (German: Wolkenstein in Gröden; Ladin: Sëlva Gherdëine) makes a great hiking base in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol (South Tyrol) region of Italy. For our favorite hike in the Dolomiti, start from Selva with the first morning bus to Ortisei or St. Christina, take the Seceda lift, admire great views up at the cross on the edge of Val di Funes (Villnöss), then walk 12 miles (2000 feet up, 5000 feet down) via the steep pass Furcela Forces De Sieles (Forcella Forces de Sielles) to beautiful Vallunga (trail #2 to 16), finishing where you started in Selva. The hike traverses the Geisler/Odle and Puez Groups from verdant pastures to alpine wonders, all preserved in a vast Nature Park: Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles), including the deeply glaciated U-shaped valley of Vallunga (Langental). As sheep and cows graze en route, Saint Sylvester's Chapel (San Silvestro) in Vallunga is fittingly dedicated to the patron saint of cattle and contains 300-year-old frescoes depicting the life of Jesus. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-21181_Vallunga_Naturpark-Puez-...jpg
  • At Prera Longia/Pieralongia, between Alpe di Seceda and Alpe di Cisles/Cisles-Alm, walk by curious rock outcrops, near St. Christina, in Val Gardena, in South Tyrol, the Dolomites, Italy, Europe. In the background are the Puez Group (middle) and Langkofel Group (right, Sassolungo, 3181 meters/10,436 feet). The beautiful ski resort of Selva di Val Gardena (German: Wolkenstein in Gröden; Ladin: Sëlva Gherdëine) makes a great hiking base in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol (South Tyrol) region of Italy. For our favorite hike in the Dolomiti, start from Selva with the first morning bus to Ortisei, take the Seceda lift, admire great views up at the cross on the edge of Val di Funes (Villnöss), then walk 12 miles (2000 feet up, 5000 feet down) via the steep pass Furcela Forces De Sieles (Forcella Forces de Sielles) to beautiful Vallunga (trail #2 to 16), finishing where you started in Selva. The hike traverses the Geisler/Odle and Puez Groups from verdant pastures to alpine wonders, all preserved in a vast Nature Park: Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles). UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 7 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-21019-25pan_Val-Gardena_South-...jpg
  • Sharp spires of the Geisler/Odle Group soar above a hiker on green Alpe di Seceda, above St. Christina and Ortisei, in South Tyrol, the Dolomites, Italy, Europe. The beautiful ski resort of Selva di Val Gardena (German: Wolkenstein in Gröden; Ladin: Sëlva Gherdëine) makes a great hiking base in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol (South Tyrol) region of Italy. For our favorite hike in the Dolomiti, start from Selva with the first morning bus to Ortisei, take the Seceda lift, admire great views up at the cross on the edge of Val di Funes (Villnöss), then walk 12 miles (2000 feet up, 5000 feet down) via the steep pass Furcela Forces De Sieles (Forcella Forces de Sielles) to beautiful Vallunga (trail #2 to 16), finishing where you started in Selva. The hike traverses the Geisler/Odle and Puez Groups from verdant pastures to alpine wonders, all preserved in a vast Nature Park: Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles). UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-20979_Alpe-di-Seceda_Dolomites.jpg
  • Sharp spires of the Geisler/Odle Group soar above green Alpe di Seceda, above St. Christina and Ortisei, in South Tyrol, the Dolomites, Italy, Europe. The beautiful ski resort of Selva di Val Gardena (German: Wolkenstein in Gröden; Ladin: Sëlva Gherdëine) makes a great hiking base in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol (South Tyrol) region of Italy. For our favorite hike in the Dolomiti, start from Selva with the first morning bus to Ortisei, take the Seceda lift, admire great views up at the cross on the edge of Val di Funes (Villnöss), then walk 12 miles (2000 feet up, 5000 feet down) via the steep pass Furcela Forces De Sieles (Forcella Forces de Sielles) to beautiful Vallunga (trail #2 to 16), finishing where you started in Selva. The hike traverses the Geisler/Odle and Puez Groups from verdant pastures to alpine wonders, all preserved in a vast Nature Park: Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles). UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-20944_Alpe-di-Seceda_Dolomites.jpg
  • Marmots are large ground squirrels in the genus Marmota. This animal lives atop Alpe di Seceda, in the Geisler/Odle Group, above Ortisei, in South Tyrol, the Dolomites, Italy, Europe. The beautiful ski resort of Selva di Val Gardena (German: Wolkenstein in Gröden; Ladin: Sëlva Gherdëine) makes a great hiking base in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol (South Tyrol) region of Italy. For our favorite hike in the Dolomiti, start from Selva with the first morning bus to Ortisei, take the Seceda lift, admire great views up at the cross on the edge of Val di Funes (Villnöss), then walk 12 miles (2000 feet up, 5000 feet down) via the steep pass Furcela Forces De Sieles (Forcella Forces de Sielles) to beautiful Vallunga (trail #2 to 16), finishing where you started in Selva. The hike traverses the Geisler/Odle and Puez Groups from verdant pastures to alpine wonders, all preserved in a vast Nature Park: Parco Naturale Puez-Odle (German: Naturpark Puez-Geisler; Ladin: Parch Natural Pöz-Odles), including the deeply glaciated U-shaped valley of Vallunga (Langental). UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-20934_marmot_Dolomites.jpg
  • A field of yellow buttercup flowers (Ranunculus genus) blooms at Pordoi Pass in Italy, Europe. In the distance rise the Langkofel/Sassolungo Group (left) and Sella Group (right). We highly recommend hiking the Bindelweg/Viel del Pan trail for a majestic perspective on the Queen of the Dolomites, glacier-clad Marmolada (3343 meters / 10,968 feet). Take state highway 48 (Grand Strader delle Dolomiti) to Pordoi Pass and hike up the Padon chain, a ridge of volcanic origin carpeted with lush green pasture and wildflowers. Hike an easy 5 miles with 1000 feet gain round trip to Rifugio Viel del Pan; or walk one way 4 miles to the lift at Porta Vescovo down to Arabba village, where an SAD bus can return you to Pordoi Pass during lift hours; or walk 3 hours to Lago di Fedaia and bus back. Pordoi Pass (or Pordoijoch, 2239 meters/7346 feet) is the highest surfaced road traversing a pass in the Dolomites. The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. The panorama was stitched from two overlapping photos, focused near and far.
    13ITA-20845-46pan_Ranunculus-flower_...jpg
  • Near Pordoi Pass in Italy, a bicyclist pedals up the Bindelweg/Viel del Pan trail for a majestic perspective on the Queen of the Dolomites, glacier-clad Marmolada (3343 meters / 10,968 feet). Take state highway 48 (Grand Strader delle Dolomiti) to Pordoi Pass and hike up the Padon chain, a ridge of volcanic origin carpeted with lush green pasture and wildflowers. Hike an easy 5 miles with 1000 feet gain round trip to Rifugio Viel del Pan; or walk one way 4 miles to the lift at Porta Vescovo down to Arabba village, where an SAD bus can return you to Pordoi Pass during lift hours; or walk 3 hours to Lago di Fedaia and bus back. Pordoi Pass (or Pordoijoch, 2239 meters/7346 feet) is the highest surfaced road traversing a pass in the Dolomites. The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, in Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-20818_Marmolada_Dolomites.jpg
  • Starting from Pordoi Pass in Italy, we highly recommend hiking the Bindelweg/Viel del Pan trail for a majestic perspective on the Queen of the Dolomites, glacier-clad Marmolada (3343 meters / 10,968 feet). Take state highway 48 (Grand Strader delle Dolomiti) to Pordoi Pass and hike up the Padon chain, a ridge of volcanic origin carpeted with lush green pasture and wildflowers. Hike an easy 5 miles with 1000 feet gain round trip to Rifugio Viel del Pan; or walk one way 4 miles to the lift at Porta Vescovo down to Arabba village, where an SAD bus can return you to Pordoi Pass during lift hours; or walk 3 hours to Lago di Fedaia and bus back. Pordoi Pass (or Pordoijoch, 2239 meters/7346 feet) is the highest surfaced road traversing a pass in the Dolomites. The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 3 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-20724-26pan_Marmolada_Dolomite...jpg
  • A lift from Passo Pordoi up to Sass Pordoi in the Sella Group gives a sweeping view of Dolomites peaks including their highest, glacier-clad Marmolada (3343 meters / 10,968 feet), Italy. From Pordoi Pass on state highway 48 (Grand Strader delle Dolomiti), take the rapid cable car ascent or hike up to the restaurant on Sass Pordoi at 2952m. Pordoi Pass (or Pordoijoch, 2239 meters/7346 feet) is the highest surfaced road traversing a pass in the Dolomites. On the Padon chain in the foreground (a ridge of volcanic origin carpeted with lush green pasture and wildflowers), we highly recommend hiking the Bindelweg/Viel del Pan trail starting from Pordoi Pass. The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. For licensing options, please inquire.
    13ITA-20611_Marmolada_Dolomites.jpg
  • A lift from Passo Pordoi up to Sass Pordoi in the Sella Group gives a sweeping view of Dolomites peaks including their highest, glacier-clad Marmolada (3343 meters / 10,968 feet), Italy. From Pordoi Pass on state highway 48 (Grand Strader delle Dolomiti), take the rapid cable car ascent or hike up to the restaurant on Sass Pordoi at 2952m. Pordoi Pass (or Pordoijoch, 2239 meters/7346 feet) is the highest surfaced road traversing a pass in the Dolomites. On the Padon chain in the foreground (a ridge of volcanic origin carpeted with lush green pasture and wildflowers), we highly recommend hiking the Bindelweg/Viel del Pan trail starting from Pordoi Pass. The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 3 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-20577-79pan_Marmolada_Dolomite...jpg
  • A pond reflects Hotel Gonzaga and peaks of the Langkofel Group (Sassolungo, 3181 meters / 10,436 feet) and Sella Group, in Val di Fassa, 2 km west of Passo Pordoi, in the Dolomites, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region, Italy. We highly recommend lodging in a pristine, roomy apartment with full kitchen in a beautiful setting at Hotel Gonzaga Appartamenti Garni (Canazei, I-38032, Streda de Pordoi, 102, telephone +39 0462 602121). The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 5 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-20443-47pan_Langkofel-Sassolun...jpg
  • Marmolada reflects in Lago di Fedaia, a two-part reservoir just west of Passo di Fedaia (2057 meters or 6749 feet) along Strada Statale 641, at the head of Val di Fassa, in the Veneto region of Italy, Europe. Marmolada (Queen of the Dolomites) is capped by the biggest (and only skiable) glacier in the Dolomiti: Ghiacciaio della Marmolada. Known as Marmoleda in Ladin, the highest peak in the Dolomites rises to 3343 meters (10,968 feet) elevation at Punta Penia. The World War I museum at Serauta lift station describes the amazing City of Ice (Die Eisstadt or Citta di Ghiaccio, 1917), where Austrian soldiers inside the Marmolada Glacier built quarters in tunnels extending 12 kilometers with a vertical drop of over 1000 meters! Nine thousand Austrian and Italian soldiers died on the front line in a stalemate on and around Marmolada over 2 years. After Austria lost World War I, its South Tirol became Italy's Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region (bordering the Veneto). The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, in Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 8 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-20378-85pan_Lake-Fedaia_Marmol...jpg
  • From Punta Rocca lift station on Marmolada, look west to Pala di San Martino Group, Passo Rolle, and Passo Valles, in Italy. From Malga Ciapela village, take a spectacular lift on Marmolada (Queen of the Dolomites) above the biggest (and only skiable) glacier in the Dolomiti: Ghiacciaio della Marmolada. Known as Marmoleda in Ladin, the highest peak in the Dolomites rises to 3343 meters (10,968 feet) elevation. Top station Punta Rocca gives a very exciting view of the surrounding mountains. The World War I museum at Serauta lift station describes the amazing City of Ice (Die Eisstadt, 1917), where Austrian soldiers inside the Marmolada Glacier built quarters in tunnels extending 12 kilometers with a vertical drop of over 1000 meters! Nine thousand Austrian and Italian soldiers died on the front line in a futile stalemate on and around Marmolada over 2 years. Find lift info at Funiviemarmolada.com. The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, in northern Italy, Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 4 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-20331-34pan_Marmolada_Dolomite...jpg
  • Monte Civetta (3220 meters or 10,564 feet elevation) rises high above hiker trails accessible via lift from Alleghe resort village, in the Dolomites, Belluno province, Veneto region, Italy. The Dolomites or Dolomiti are part of the Southern Limestone Alps in Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 6 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-20177-82pan_Monte-Civetta.jpg
  • A wild alpine Lilium bulbiferum flower (commonly called Orange Lily, Fire Lily, or Tiger Lily) blooms on Monte Civetta, in the Dolomites, Italy, Europe. From Alleghe village, take a scenic lift to hikes on impressive Monte Civetta (3220 meters or 10,564 feet elevation). The Dolomites or Dolomiti are part of the Southern Limestone Alps, in Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-20105_Orange-Lily.jpg
  • At moonrise, the Pala Dolomites (Pale di San Martino) soar majestically above Passo Rolle, near the mountain resort of San Martino di Castrozza in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region of Italy, Europe. The sharp peak of Cimon della Pala (right, 3129m) is eclipsed in height by Cima della Vezana (behind left, 3192m, highest of the Pala Dolomites). 200 million years ago, Triassic coral reefs fossilized into Dolomite. Collision of tectonic plates lifted the Dolomites within the Southern Limestone Alps. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 2 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-20070-71pan_Pala-Dolomites.jpg
  • Spotlit by sunset, the Pala Dolomites (Pale di San Martino) soar majestically above Passo Rolle, near the mountain resort of San Martino di Castrozza in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region of Italy, Europe. The sharp peak of Cimon della Pala (right, 3129m) is eclipsed in height by Cima della Vezana (at its left, 3192m, highest of the Pala Dolomites). 200 million years ago, Triassic coral reefs fossilized into Dolomite. Collision of tectonic plates lifted the Dolomites within the Southern Limestone Alps. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 2 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-20055-56pan_Pala-Dolomites.jpg
  • Spotlit by sunset, the Pala Dolomites (Pale di San Martino) soar majestically above Passo Rolle, near the mountain resort of San Martino di Castrozza in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region of Italy, Europe. The sharp peak of Cimon della Pala (right, 3129m) is eclipsed in height by Cima della Vezana (at its left, 3192m, highest of the Pala Dolomites). 200 million years ago, Triassic coral reefs fossilized into Dolomite. Collision of tectonic plates lifted the Dolomites within the Southern Limestone Alps. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 2 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-20050-51pan_Pala-Dolomites.jpg
  • At Refugio Baita Segantini, fog swirls around the Pala group (Pale di San Martino) and reflects in a pond. The sharp pyramid of Cimon della Pala (or Cimone, 3184 m/10,446 ft) is known as the Matterhorn of the Dolomites (il Cervino delle Dolomiti). To its left is Cima della Vezana (3192m), highest of the Pala Dolomites. Walk from Passo Rolle to Baita Segantini near the mountain resort of San Martino di Castrozza, in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region of Italy, Europe. 200 million years ago, Triassic coral reefs fossilized into Dolomite. Collision of tectonic plates lifted the Dolomites within the Southern Limestone Alps. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 6 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-11210-15pan_Pala-Dolomites.jpg
  • A yellow poppy flower blooms on sunny slopes of the Rosengarten/Catinaccio Group in the Dolomites, Italy, Europe. From Pera di Fassa village (in Pozza di Fassa comune in Val di Fassa), in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region, Italy, take a bus or lift to visit Rifugio Gardeccia Hutte and hike in the Rosengarten mountain massif (Catinaccio Group) of the Dolomites. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-11011_yellow-poppies.jpg
  • A stream flows from le Coronelle in the Rosengarten/Catinaccio group at sunrise in the Dolomites, Italy, Europe. From Pera di Fassa village (in Pozza di Fassa comune in Val di Fassa), in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region, Italy, take a bus or lift to visit Rifugio Gardeccia Hutte and hike in the Rosengarten mountain massif (Catinaccio Group) of the Dolomites. 200 million years ago, Triassic coral reefs fossilized into Dolomite. Collision of tectonic plates lifted the Dolomites within the Southern Limestone Alps. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 6 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-10956-61pan_Catinaccio-Rosenga...jpg
  • See the steep face of Marmolata in the distance from Rifugio Gardeccia Hutte, in the Dolomites, Italy, Europe. From Pera di Fassa village (in Pozza di Fassa comune in Val di Fassa), in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region, Italy, take a bus or lift to visit Rifugio Gardeccia Hutte and hike in the Rosengarten mountain massif (Catinaccio Group) of the Dolomites. 200 million years ago, Triassic coral reefs fossilized into Dolomite. Collision of tectonic plates lifted the Dolomites within the Southern Limestone Alps. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-10939.jpg
  • Sunrise reflects the Rosengarten/Catinaccio group in a pond. From Pera di Fassa village (in Pozza di Fassa comune in Val di Fassa), in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region, Italy, take a bus or lift to visit Rifugio Gardeccia Hutte and hike in the Rosengarten mountain massif (Catinaccio Group) of the Dolomites. 200 million years ago, Triassic coral reefs fossilized into Dolomite. Collision of tectonic plates lifted the Dolomites within the Southern Limestone Alps. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 4 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-10931-34pan_Catinaccio-Rosenga...jpg
  • Vallesinella Falls is an exceptionally beautiful series of cascades along a short trail in the Brenta Dolomites, near the ski resort of Madonna di Campiglio in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region of Italy, Europe. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 4 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-10883-86pan_Brenta-Dolomites.jpg
  • Above Rifugio Tuckett e Sella (2272m) rise the peaks of (left to right) Campanile di Vallesinella (2946m), Castelletto Superiore (2700m), Cima Sella (2917m) in the Brenta Dolomites, Italy, Europe. From the ski resort of Madonna di Campiglio in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region of Italy, the Passo Groste lift takes you directly into the Brenta Dolomites to enjoy scenic mountain hiking trails. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009.
    13ITA-10760_Brenta-Dolomites.jpg
  • To the right of Rifugio Tuckett e Sella (2272m) is the peak of Cima Mandron (3040m) in the clouds. Brenta Dolomites. From the ski resort of Madonna di Campiglio in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region of Italy, the Passo Groste lift takes you directly into the Brenta Dolomites to enjoy scenic mountain hiking trails. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 6 overlapping photos. For licensing options, please inquire.
    13ITA-10731-36pan_Brenta-Dolomites_R...jpg
  • Young people hike towards Torrione di Vallesinella in the Brenta Dolomites. From the ski resort of Madonna di Campiglio in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region of Italy, the Passo Groste lift takes you directly into the Brenta Dolomites to enjoy scenic mountain hiking trails. 200 million years ago, Triassic coral reefs fossilized into Dolomite. Collision of tectonic plates lifted the Dolomites within the Southern Limestone Alps. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 4 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-10647-50pan_Brenta-Dolomites.jpg
  • See Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute from Ponte dell'Accademia bridge on the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy. The bridge links the sestiere of San Marco and Dorsoduro and is named for the Accademia di Belle Arti di Venezia. The original 1854 steel bridge was replaced by a wooden one in 1933 and 1985. Lovers like to attach padlocks ("love locks") to the metal hand rails of the bridge (but are discouraged from doing so by Venice authorities). The yellow and white building at left is Istituto Veneto di Scienze Lettere ed Arti / Palazzo Cavalli Franchetti. Venice (Venezia) is the capital of Italy’s Veneto region, named for the ancient Veneti people from the 900s BC. The romantic "City of Canals" stretches across 100+ small islands in the marshy Venetian Lagoon along the Adriatic Sea in northeast Italy, between the mouths of the Po and Piave Rivers. The Republic of Venice was a major maritime power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, a staging area for the Crusades, and a major center of art and commerce (silk, grain and spice trade) from the 1200s to 1600s. The wealthy legacy of Venice stands today in a rich architecture combining Gothic, Byzantine, and Arab styles. This panorama was stitched from 10 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-10484-93pan_Venice-Italy.jpg
  • A girl washes hands at well faucet, in Venice, Italy, Europe. Because Venice was cut off from reliable sources of fresh water, Venetians built underground clay-lined cisterns to collect and filter rainwater. Many wellheads were decorated with carvings of saints, family crests, inscriptions in Carolingian, Byzantine, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque era styles. An aqueduct from the mainland completed in the late 1800s made most wells obsolete. Venezia, founded in the 400s AD, is capital of Italy’s Veneto region, named for the ancient Veneti people from the 900s BC. The romantic City of Canals stretches across 100+ small islands in the marshy Venetian Lagoon along the Adriatic Sea, between the mouths of the Po and Piave Rivers. The Republic of Venice was a major maritime power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, a staging area for the Crusades, and a major center of art and commerce (silk, grain and spice trade) from the 1200s to 1600s. The wealthy legacy of Venice stands today in a rich architecture combining Gothic, Byzantine, and Arab styles. Venice and the Venetian Lagoon are honored on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
    13ITA-10453_Venice-Italy.jpg
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