The Dolomites- get there at least once in your life

I didn't expect to be blown away by the Dolomites. But I was. Which is always fantastic to love something that you weren't expecting to fall in love with. The scenery is spectacular and it's like you have left Italy and entered Austria. Actually it used to be part of Austria until it was swapped for Nice and Corsica back in Napoleon's time. A lot of people there still think they are Austrian and the houses and food reflect that.  It made us miss Italy :)

 We stayed with my aunt and uncle and my cousin and her beautiful family. They come every year from Florence to escape the heat. So lovely to spend some time with our family who live so far away.  My aunt is actually my mum's cousin but we are close as I spent some time in Italy when I was younger studying Italian  in Florence where they live. 

My cousin Simona and her beautiful little boys. We will really miss them.

We did lots of hikes , traveling up the mountains in the very well connected system of funivia and chair lifts. 

 

The view from the house that my aunt rents for holidays was gorgeous. So green and delightful.

I can only imagine how lovely it all looks covered in snow. And what good skiing it would all be.

We ended up skipping our visit to Venice to stay here longer. Given the heat and crowds in Venice, I'm happy with our choice. Phil and I have both been a few times before to Venice and the kids will get their chance when they are older so better to spend time with family and the gorgeous little boys. 

Have you been to the Dolomites?

Makes me want to go to Thredbo in the summer. not sure it would be as beautiful:)

Fiona xx