The heights of the Veneto
An itinerary taking in rugged nature and refined civilisation: for lovers of silence beyond the clouds, amidst the blue skies of the Dolomites. Combining the cultural and sporting possibilities of Cortina, to the ethnic outpost of Sappada: the fascination of the Veneto mountains.
FIRST DAY
Cortina d'Ampezzo
We begin at the heart of the area. Cortina wears the crown of tourist locations within the mountains, being the most dreamed of destination throughout the world.
Situated in the famous 'amphitheatre of the Dolomites' consisting of the peaks of the Tofane, Cristallo and Sorapis mountains, Cortina lies in a sun-drenched valley of great natural charm.
It is also famous for having hosted the Winter Olympics in 1956.
In addition to its high-society aspect with which it is usually associated, the town boasts many interesting cultural possibilities.
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SECOND DAY
Arabba
We move on to the domain of untamed nature. Arabba is another reason behind the pride of our mountains: two localities basking in the beauties of the Dolomite landscape, both firm favourites of experienced skiers.
Sport and relaxation are at the maximum level of quality in this town, where the grand gastronomic tradition and the area's folklore animate every season.
Arabba (1600m above sea level) lies in the valley Valle di Livinallogno of the Col di Lana hills, and is surrounded by the Marmolada, and thus completing the picture of a perfect winter resort.
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THIRD DAY
Bellunese Dolomites National Park
Our itinerary moves into the unspoilt natural wonders of the Bellunese Dolomites National Park.
The park, situated north of Cortina and extending as far as the border of the Alto Adige, lies in the heart of the Eastern Dolomites. It originated in the Regole d'Ampezzo, the association of ancient families dedicated to the protection of their pastures and forests.
The floral symbol of the park is the sea-green found in the Dolomites, a rare plant which is found uniquely on these mountains.
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FOURTH DAY
Lago di Misurina
The Cadore with its celebrated mountains and natural marvels possesses a further source of wealth: the shimmering expanse of water.
Lying a short distance from Cortina we find the largest natural bay in the zone, noted also for its high-quality tourist facilities: the 'pearl of Cadore': Lake Misurina.
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FIFTH DAY
Sappada
We proceed northwest, to the very edge of the Veneto, where we encounter a hybrid culture of enormous fascination.
A visit to Sappada is an unforgettable experience: a true ethnic and linguistic island, founded by a group of Austrians fleeing from their kingdom.
Its principal area of interest is the folklore connotations owing to its unique origins.
Sappada hosts the important local Carnivale Sappadino, spread over three Sundays, one dedicated to the poor, one to farmers, and the third to the lords.
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