The Dolomites

The spectacular Dolomites are situated in the autonomous province of South Tirol, referred to as Alto Adige in Italian, Südtirol in German, and the local Ladin language. German is the dominant language in this enchanting region of northern Italy, spoken by 62% of the population, followed by Italian and Ladin, the indigenous Rhaeto-Romance language.

 

Regarded as among the most attractive mountain landscapes in the world, the Dolomite Mountains are a recently recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site inaugurated in 2009. Comprising over 90,000 acres of mountainous terrain, these mountains offer unusual contrasts in landscapes. Trails climb and wend their way around towering rock, offering unimaginable vistas that surprise with every step. 

 

Not surprisingly, given the name of these mountains, Dolomite is the primary sedimentary rock found in the park. Formed from a near-white crystalline mineral, Dolomite was named after the French geologist Deodat de Dolomieu, the first to describe the rock's chemical composition in 1789.

 

The Dolomites have a far-reaching cultural history that spans thousands of centuries, with prehistoric settlements that pre-date the rise of the Roman Empire.

Val Gardena reveals traces of human presence dating back to the Bronze Age, around 6000 BC. Settlements have also been unearthed in Alta Badia and the Ampezzo Valley, adding further layers to the region's captivating past.

 

World War One and the subsequent territory annexation took its toll, reshaping the landscape and borders. Between 1915 and 1917, the little-known Dolomites front was bitterly fought over between Italy and Austria. Unlike the larger-scale battles, this battle was dictated by the landscape of the sizable mountain range. Because of the challenging terrain, both countries had to rely on innovative methods of warfare and outstanding acts of bravery. What the soldiers did in the Dolomites region is incredible: long tunnels dug inside the mountains with dynamite and picks, suspension bridges built across scary chasms, iron paths, and refuges that literally hung on sheer cliffs are still standing today. Some are remnants of their original state, and some have been renovated and transformed into open-air museums, such as those on the Lagazuoi, Marmolada, Tofane, and Col di Lana mountains. When visiting the Dolomites, these amazing networks can be accessed through various war-themed hikes and via ferrata. These include a circular hike to Monte Piana (2,324m / 7,625'), a climb through the spectacular trenches of Col di Lana (2,462m / 8,077'), and a descent in a well-preserved First World War tunnel in the Sass di Stria (2,477m / 8127).

 

The Dolomites' fascinating history has wrought both a blending of cultures on the one hand and a preservation of the uniqueness of each culture found here – Italian, Austrian, and Ladin. The changing colors and textures of the mountains and a wonderful mix of influences mean fantastic opportunities for adventure, stunning scenery, and incredible cuisine!

 

At Dolomite Mountains, we have designed experiences that perfectly showcase these majestic mountains and the communities that live here. Traveling with us means action-packed days interwoven with unique moments of authentic local life. Excellent hand-picked accommodations offer warmth and hospitality that make you feel like family. Rifugios, or mountain inns, seem to be placed at the perfect interval, appearing right when you are ready for an espresso or plate of speck – a marvelous smoked meat made only in the Dolomites – or a bed with a cozy comforter and pillow. 

We partner with professional, local guides passionate about passing on their invaluable knowledge and expertise, ensuring safe yet exciting journeys that leave you wanting more. 

 

So, join us on one of our many extraordinary adventures in the Dolomites! You won't regret it!