Dolomite Mountains

We began our honeymoon in the northern Italian Province of Tyrol. Despite annexation by Italy this region retains much of it's historic Bavarian character and this fact is reflected in the architecture and cuisine. The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Hertitage Site protecting a unique alpine agricultural ecosytem producing rare mushrooms, wine, beer, dairy products and cured meats. We arrived in the evening twilight and saw the stunning relief of the Sciliar Spire as we approached the village of Castelrotto. We spent the first day hiking to huts scattered amid the alpine meadows; frequently stopping for struddel, cheese, wine and beer. Heavy cloud cover danced with with mountains, occasionally revealing the dramatic topography that surrounded us. The powerful aroma of fermenting wine and beer permeate the area, making for a memorably aromatic day hike. Overnight, heavy storms rolled in and diminished the prospect of outdoor recreatio. Therefore, we opted to depart early for the sunny beaches of Cinque Terre determined to someday return to this unique and beautiful region.

Time, rather that distance, is the primary unit of geographic measurement. Lingering anti-italian sentiment is evident.

The Northern buttress of the Suis Alm is barely visable through the clouds.

The Sicliar Sprire poking through the clouds above Castelrotto.

Clouds rolling into the high meadow.

Jillian soaks in the views during a brief window of clear(er) skies.

The huts provided this handy map. Again, no distances.

Clearly, this is heaven.

Near the town square of Castelrotto. The clouds hide the mountain range featured on the picture lower right.

Before the clouds rolled in.

Our hotel.

What the regions looks like on a clear day.

The first of very many Caprese salads.