Spending a week in the Dolomites was such a peaceful and beautiful experience. The combination of dramatic mountain peaks, charming alpine villages, and crisp winter air made for a perfect getaway. The food here leans heavily toward a more Germanic style, which makes sense, given how close we were to Austria. It was different from the Italian food we’d been used to, but still delicious in its way. The small towns in Val Gardena were absolutely lovely to explore. Each had its charm, with cobblestone streets, wooden chalets, and cozy little cafés that were perfect for warming up with a cappuccino. Walking through the villages felt like stepping into a winter postcard, with twinkling lights decorating the streets and the smell of fresh bread and pastries from local bakeries. Jared spent most of the days skiing while I soaked in the scenery at a much more relaxed pace. The Dolomites are breathtaking, with jagged peaks rising sharply against the sky and valleys blanketed in snow. I never got tired of just looking around and taking it all in. Whether sitting on a terrace with a hot drink or strolling through town, there was always something stunning to admire. The mix of Italian and Austrian influences in the region made it feel like a unique blend of two worlds, and I loved experiencing both cultures side by side. It was a slow, scenic, and peaceful week, and while the skiing conditions weren’t ideal for Jared, we both still appreciated everything the Dolomites had to offer.
