Dolomites, Italy

The Dolomites have been on my personal bucket list for some time. The dramatic landscapes of sharp peaks, humble valleys, and crystal blue glacial lakes called to me for years. The region is famous for all of the opportunities to get outside and connect with nature whether you fancy skiing, hiking, climbing, or just spending time in the mountains to reset.

I visited at the end of the summer season in September in order to avoid the crowds of the peak dates over summer and in my opinion, this is the way to go! For nature and hiking lovers, September and June would be my recommendation.

Many of the lakes have become instagram famous but for a good reason. We visited Lago di Braies in the Pragser Wildsee area and rented a boat to spend the day out on the lake with hot coco and a small basket of cheese and cured meats (a popular choice for packed picnic lunches).

We climbed the central tower of the Tres Chime hike and had the most epic views of the surrounding area.

My favorite hotel was Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa which is the grand dame of Cortina d’Ampezzo, the ritziest ski town in the region. The hotel has been open since 1901 and houses a long history of hosting aristocrats and names you may recognize like Frank Sinatra, Brigitte Bardot, and Duca D’Aosta. Overflowing with alpine charm and excellent service, this hotel was an excellent home base for our adventurous holiday.