Peaking at the Dolomites

Our fourth day of hiking the Dolomites brought us to the renowned Three Peaks, or Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Known for their impressive triple towers and breathtaking vistas, these peaks were set to be the highlight of our trek. Ironically, despite having great weather for most of our hiking thus far, this particular leg was shrouded in clouds, intermittently obscuring the peaks for the entirety of our hike. This was a bit of a bummer but the views of all the surrounding monoliths were incredible. 

We set out with excitement, eager to experience the famed Three Peaks. The trail led us through rugged beauty, with jagged rock formations and sweeping valleys with lush meadows. Despite the persistent cloud cover, the scenery was nothing short of spectacular. The clouds, while obscuring the peaks, added a mysterious and magical quality to the landscape, making it seem otherworldly.

As we hiked, the 360° vistas unfolded around us, each turn revealing a new and awe-inspiring panorama. Even without the clear sight of the peaks, the dizzying cliffs and expansive views of the surrounding Dolomites were mind-boggling. My camera struggled to capture the sheer scale and beauty of the scene.

About halfway through our hike, we took a well-deserved break for lunch. We had come across a Bavarian hut that prepared a huge charcuterie tray, laden with an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, and breads. It was a royal feast fit for the breathtaking setting, and we savored every bite. The beer wasn’t too shabby either.

Throughout the hike, Ben, the mountain goat, stood out with his remarkable stamina. He out-hiked everyone, often found yawning after a devastating up hill stretch. At each rest stop, he celebrated with a beer. A true hiker at heart.

As we continued our journey, the clouds remained, teasing us with brief glimpses of the towering peaks before quickly closing in again. While it was disappointing not to see the Three Peaks in their full glory, the hike was still a highlight of our trip. The sense of being enveloped in such a grand and ancient landscape was profound. 

As we neared the end of our hike, the clouds began to thin slightly, allowing a hint of sunlight to filter through and illuminate the trail ahead. It was a fitting end to a day filled with contrasts—frustration at the elusive peaks, awe at the magnificent vistas, and joy in the shared adventure.

Hiking back towards our resort we were greeted by a joyously screaming Bowie sprinting into her father’s arms. I don’t know how he did it but after a major hike Ben took Bowie and Pamela for a paddle boat ride and a swim in the pool. 

Emily and I stretched out in the pool a bit then enjoyed some afternoon drinks with my parents. We all convened at a pizzeria for another epic family dinner with smiles and laughter. Ben even attempted to tackle ‘das boot’ and almost finished it. We bid each other good night and headed off to bed. Tomorrow is our last hiking day and it looks like a doozy.

(Sorry I don’t have more of Pamela or Mom but they had adventures while we were hiking that I didn’t experience..😔 But it sounds like they had quite the day with a 5 star children’s playground including mini-zip line, Go Fish with Nonni, exploring Italian shops, and after running wild, little Bowie even took a nap!)