The Dolomites - Stillness in the Sky
There’s a kind of quiet you only find in the mountains — where the air feels cleaner, the light softer, and the pace of life gently slows down. After days spent exploring the cities of northern Italy, we arrived in Cortina d’Ampezzo, nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, ready to reset. What we found was more than just alpine views — it was stillness, warmth, and the kind of beauty that sneaks up on you.
Over three days, we soaked in panoramic vistas, relaxed in spa pools overlooking the peaks, wandered mountain roads, and watched the light change across the stone. From long lunches in town to a scenic drive through Giau Pass, this part of our trip was all about balance — soft moments, deep breaths, and the kind of peace that lingers.
Day 1 — Arrival in Cortina d’Ampezzo
We left the canals of Venice behind and drove into the heart of the Dolomites, trading gondolas for winding mountain roads and still, alpine air. After picking up our car, we made our way to Dolomiti Lodge Alverà — perched quietly in Cortina d’Ampezzo, with views that made us slow down and take it all in.
That first day was about settling in.
We had a slow lunch in town, walked a little, and spent the afternoon simply enjoying the hotel, nestled in the mountains like a well-kept secret. By the time dinner came around, we were wrapped in that fresh mountain calm that only the Dolomites can give — cool air, quiet skies, and the glow of wooden lodges against the hills.
Day 2 — Spa Mornings & Mountain Light
We kept our priorities simple: relaxation and renewal.
We spent the morning at the spa, moving between heated pools and sauna rooms as soft light poured through the glass. This trip wasn’t just about landscapes — it was about rest, too. And this day gave us permission to do exactly that.
After brunch, we wandered into town and considered taking the Faloria cable car — though we ended up opting for more local exploring and a slow afternoon before our 6 p.m. relax massage back at the spa.
The evening closed in with another thoughtful dinner, this time at a local spot recommended by the hotel. No rush, no plan. Just food, warmth, and a feeling of being held by the mountains.
Day 3 — Lakes, Loops & Passes
By the third day, we were ready to stretch our legs and take in some views.
The Dolomites are filled with postcard moments, and we chased a few of them:
A stop at the peaceful Lake Misurina, where the still water mirrored the sky
A drive to Cinque Torri, where WWI history and dramatic peaks meet
And finally, a winding journey to Giau Pass, one of the most breathtaking drives we’ve ever done — the kind of place that humbles you with its scale
That evening, as we looked out at the last bit of pink and gold on the horizon, we both knew — this was the kind of place we’d return to. Not for the checklist, but for the feeling.
The Dolomites gave us space to breathe.
No pressure to chase every view. Just permission to slow down, rest, and feel the awe of the mountains around us.
