Seven Days in the Dolomites
The Dolomites are not easy to navigate. Having a professional was critical.
Venice to the mountains
A private transfer from Marco Polo — three hours, and the last thirty minutes are the reason you came. First night on the Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest alpine meadow.
The Stone City
Cable car up, then the traverse beneath the Sassolungo through boulders the size of houses. Lunch at a working mountain hut.
Seceda and the Odle
The most photographed skyline in the Dolomites, walked from the ridgeline. Dinner down in Ortisei in a century-old timber stube, a car waiting to carry everyone back up.
The meadow crossing
On foot across the Alpe di Siusi to a farm hut where nearly everything on the table grew within sight of it. The vans move the bags over the passes to Corvara.
The White War
Cable car to 9,000 feet, then down through tunnels cut by hand in the First World War — headlamps on, helmets provided, an open-trail alternative for anyone who’d rather stay in the light.
The Viel dal Pan
The old bread road, walked end to end with the Marmolada glacier below the entire way. Lunch on the trail; the vans wait at the pass.
The morning run
Bags down at 6:45, wheels at 7:00, Venice by 10:00 for midday flights.
Pacing was perfect.