Gypset Travel ~ Adventure in the Dolomites

Like the sea, I have always regarded the mountains as my “church.” They are the two places I feel closest to God or a higher power if you will. The first time I made my way up from Venice to this gorgeous mountain range, I was awe-struck. I had never seen anything like it. The way the tall peaks etched their way into the skyline, literally forming the shape of man-made churches (as you can see from the photo below). The majestic scenery made me feel so free, yet utterly seduced by its beauty at the same time. This is the kind of place you never want to leave.

I think there is a misconception that gypset travel is only about lounging on a beach listening to a good conga set or catching a wave. It’s not– it’s also about taking the opportunity to discover enclaves with soft white beaches and  the peaks of mountain tops. So gypsetters, immerse yourself in the idyllic atmosphere that is the Italian Dolomites. Take in the gorgeous views of snow-capped mountain peaks and meadows filled with wildflowers. If you love adventure, you will love the Dolomites. Sometimes referred as the “Crown Jewel” of the Alps, the Dolomites are culturally and geographically reminiscent of Austria. The blending of two cultures (Italian and German) is something in which they take great pride, and it makes your trip to this region even more spectacular. The local dialect that is spoken in some regions of the Dolomites is known as Ladin.

Breathtaking scenery

The Tyrolean hospitality, the Italian food, the German culture all blend together to give you a “real” experience you will not forget. Unforgettable food, delicious local wine, and quaint village markets for strolling are just some of the attributes you will find in the local villages. The warm and inviting architecture has been well-preserved since WWI, when the Dolomites were at the front lines between Austria and Italy. You can even walk through some of the very tunnels the soldiers made during the war.

Misurina Lake

Although the skiing and snowshoeing there is fantastic, my favorite time to visit is July through September. The weather is perfect, and I can go hiking with my friend (and fellow gypsetter), mountain guide extraordinaire Gary P. Scott,of Right Path Adventures (more to come in a future post). In addition to hiking, there is biking and rock climbing and much more. This destination is the perfect playground for those craving some outdoor adventure; so, I decided to conquer my fear of heights and take a chance at a sport that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping….paragliding.

Getting prepped for take off

Mid-flight with my tandem partner Marco

The sightseeing is spectacular on its own. Valleys, mountains, paths, and pastures can be viewed on leisurely walks or rides on the cable cars. While hiking, I found myself waiting for Julie Andrews to run down the mountain signing “The hills are alive with the sound of music.” You just cannot escape the naturally beautiful landscape that is the Dolomites.

Accommodations here vary from restored castles, chalets, and 19th century hotels to family-run inns in small villages. My favorite place to stay in the Dolomites is the Hotel Cavallino d’Oro in Castelrotto. Regardless of where you choose to stay, you will be treated with the Tyrolean hospitality for which the region is known. Residents treat you like you are one of the family, as if this place is your home away from home.

A room at the Hotel Cavallino d’Oro

If you love adventure travel, good food and delicious wine paired with the most amazing hospitality and landscapes, then you must visit the Dolomites. You are truly in your own world here; you are Italian one day and German the next. You are hiking up the Alps in morning and then enjoying a glass of local wine on a rooftop terrace overlooking the fields of wildflowers in the evening– the perfect ending to many perfect days here.