kayvanhuisseling contributor

Dolomites

Hiking in the Dolomites

The little cabin on the hills

Despite living in the Netherlands, I had never been to Italy before. After a friend invited me to come visit, I knew I had to go see the mountains and some of the clearest lakes in the world in Northern Italy. We planned a five-day hiking road trip filled with stunning views. It was my first introduction to the area, but not my last. Since this visit, I’ve gone back twice to visit some of the most amazing people ever and see some of the most beautiful landscapes I could have ever imagined.

The first day, we started out at Tre Cime (Three Peaks) di Lavaredo. There are large car parks at the base, Rifugio Auronzo, but they can fill up quickly during the busy summer months so get there early to insure a spot. There are also busses connecting Rifugio Auronzo with Cortina d’Ampezzo and Dobbiaco, for those traveling without a car. The six-mile loop was mostly flat and lightly covered in snow from the previous day. Despite the flat terrain, we still ended up above the fog and clouds at Tre Cime.

The next morning, we made our way to the famous Lago di Braies. Located in the Valley di Braies, Lago di Braies is often referred to as the most beautiful lake in the South Tyrol. Here, we posed in front of one of the clearest reflections in the world and enjoyed one of the best sunrises I have ever seen.

Finally, we made our way to the Alpe di Siusi (a.k.a. Seiser Alm), which greeted us with an amazing morning glow of the sun shining over wet grass, creating the most beautiful sight I have ever seen. The sunrises are especially magical when the fog roles in and the light shines through. If you’re looking for these cabins park your car at the Kompatsch parking lot and take a 30 minute walk along the road. They will be on the right-hand side. Alp di Siuisi might be one of the most popular destinations in North Italy but for good reason!

Tips:

* Invest in some trekking poles. If you haven't used trekking poles before, there is nothing to worry about.

* Pack light.

* Bring sandals.

* Wear quick drying clothes.

* Don't skimp on socks.

* Make sure your pack fits comfortably.

* Take all measures to prevent chaffing and blisters.

* Wear trail runners instead of hiking boots

High above the clouds at Tre Cime High above the clouds at Tre Cime
The clearest reflection on earth The clearest reflection on earth
Which cabin would you chose? Which cabin would you chose?

Alp di Siuisi might be one of the most popular destinations in North Italy but for a reason! The sunrises here can get amazingly magical especially when the fog roles in and the light shines through. However you need to make sure that you park your car at the Kompatsch parking lot and walk to the spot for about 30 min. Follow the road and on the right side you will see the beautiful view of the cabins

#sunrise, #adventure, #adventureseeker, #photography