A weekend in the Dolomites

Hi guys ♥ I’ve been wishing to write about this weekend in the Dolomites for some time, but I’ve never had the right inspiration. In the meantime, the coronavirus emergency in the world has spread, bringing a big mess in the tourism sector, forcing everyone to deal with an inevitable quarantine and the cancellation of scheduled trips.

Today, we’ve got back to a normal life with all the necessary precautions, but above all with a deep sense of uncertainty. Yes, because, useless to deny it, passionate globetrotters like me cannot help but wonder if we will be able to leave for their holidays in the future, when we can return to cross borders and / or take a plane; which countries will it be possible to visit and with what restrictions. In short, it’s a real agony to start planning something again! Then, off the records, who has the courage to organize an upcoming trip right now? taking into account the possibility that, due to covid-19, it will be ruined / postponed / cancelled? I am honest, I still don’t feel like it.

Here is my sudden desire to share with you an itinerary I made in Trentino Alto Adige, just a few hours away from my town. The photos date back to June 2019 and this route is perfect for those who want to see breath-taking places without too much effort 😉

A weekend in the Dolomites:

Carezza lake (Karersee)

As a first stop I chose Carezza Lake, in the upper Ega Valley, a truly enchanting place where the peaks of Latemar and Catinaccio form the backdrop to the turquoise lake surrounded by fir trees. Reaching it by car is simple; near Karersee there is a large parking, some refreshment points and public toilets. It is possible to walk an easy circular path that runs along the lake in 20 minutes. You will see what a postcard!

Sella Pass

Distance from Lake Carezza: 36.8 km – about 50 minutes by car

Second stop of the day is the Sella Pass, a famous Alpine pass that is located between Trento and Bolzano and that separates the Sassolungo group from the Sella group. Sella Pass is a natural border between Val di Fassa and Val Gardena; it also connects Selva di Val Gardena with Canazei.

The view is, to say the least, sensational; I suggest you organize an outdoor picnic and fully enjoy the view that this place offers!

Stay at Alpin Garden Welness Resort

In the middle of the afternoon I reached the Alpin Garden Welness Resort in Ortisei, a modern mountain-style hotel, refined in great detail. The suite I reserved was large and welcoming, with a balcony overlooking the main garden. After putting on my swimsuit, I spent the rest of the afternoon relaxing in the outdoor pool which, to my surprise, was heated! Dinner and breakfast included in the reservation.

I strongly recommend staying in a hotel in Ortisei for convenience.

Ortisei

Distance from Sella Pass: 16 km – about 22 minutes by car

The morning after, as first stop of the day, I suggest visiting the village of Ortisei. There are several cafes, wood craftsmen’s shops and many other shops … when I noticed a souvenir shop, I couldn’t resist so I bought a magnet for my collection! The central street of the town is perhaps the most beautiful in the Dolomites with the particular Church of S. Antonio and the colourful houses in mountain style.

Seceda – 2500m

Distance from Ortisei: 1.8 km – about 7 minutes by car

At lunchtime, head to the Seceda Spa Funivie and buy the ticket to climb to the top of Mount Seceda (34 € p.p round trip). In a few minutes you will reach the summit and you will be delighted by the sight of this place! Take advantage of it to have lunch in one of the huts and then spend the afternoon exploring this sensational mountain far and wide … its shape, which resembles the back of a dinosaur, is truly suggestive. I can say with certainty that the Seceda is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen!