Dolomites: Natural wonder and world heritage site
What are the Dolomites? It's a simple question, but the answer encompasses centuries of history, geological fascination and natural beauty. The Dolomites are a group of mountains belonging to the Italian Eastern Alps, which extend over a vast territory between the provinces of Bolzano, Trento, Belluno, Udine, Pordenone, Vicenza and Verona.
What makes them unique is dolomite, a mineral rock that takes its name from the French naturalist Déodat de Dolomieu, the first to study its composition. It's a double carbonate of calcium and magnesium that gives the mountains an almost magical power: at dawn they turn pink, while at sunset they become fiery red with purplish hues. This extraordinary optical phenomenon is called Enrosadira and is one of the most fascinating spectacles that the Dolomites offer every day.
A natural heritage of 250 million years
Once a coral barrier submerged by the sea, today among the most iconic peaks in the world: the Dolomites boast over 250 million years of geological history. Precisely for their invaluable scientific and landscape value, in 2009 they were declared UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site.
The reasons for this recognition? The Dolomites are not only beautiful to look at, but are also a true open-air natural laboratory. Their sharp shapes, towers, bastions and grassy plateaus create a unique contrast that tells of millions of years of terrestrial evolution.
The "Pale Mountains": Wonder in every season
Also known as the "Pale Mountains" due to the light color of dolomite, the Dolomites are a perfect year-round destination:
- State-of-the-art ski resorts such as Dolomiti Superski, Plan de Corones, Alpe di Siusi, Alta Badia, Val Gardena and many others.
- Perfectly snow-covered slopes, postcard landscapes and activities such as skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and sledding.
- Unique Christmas atmospheres, with Christmas markets in the most picturesque Alpine villages.
- Hiking for all levels, from walks in the woods to panoramic via ferratas for experts.
- Opportunity to practice climbing, e-biking, paragliding and many outdoor activities.
- Mountain huts and refuges where you can taste the authentic flavors of South Tyrolean and Ladin cuisine.
Interesting facts and useful tips
- The Dolomites cover approximately 141,000 hectares distributed across 5 provinces and 3 regions (Trentino-South Tyrol, Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia).
- The best-known Dolomite groups are: Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Sassolungo, Sella, Marmolada, Latemar, Catinaccio, Odle and Pale di San Martino.
- The name "Enrosadira" comes from Ladin and means "to become pink".
Dolomites: Much more than a vacation
The Dolomites are not just mountains to admire, but experiences to live. Whether you want to relax in a high-altitude wellness center, savor typical dishes in a mountain hut or challenge yourself with an outdoor sport, these mountains will give you authentic emotions.
Come and discover the Dolomites: let yourself be enchanted by their timeless charm.