by Nadia Sinclair

Known for its breathtaking views and powerful mountain air, the Dolomite region transforms from a skier’s paradise in winter into one of the most epic nature spaces in the spring as the snow melts. Recent explorations have unveiled the Dolomites’ hiking potentials, with the villages of Ortisei, Selva, and Santa Cristina in the magnetic Val Gardena proving to be nature lovers’ favorites.
The trek begins in the captivating allure of Ortisei. Getting there the night before an extensive day of hiking, the well-deserved prize for the day is a sumptuous meal, with homemade pizza being the top favorite. The day’s adventures come to an end with a restful night at the Alpin Garden Luxury Mansion & Spa.
The hike itself is a breathtaking adventure through the heaven-like landscapes of Puez-Odle Nature Park and Alpe di Seceda. Hikers get the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the famed ‘Burning Dolomites’, where the sunset bathes the mountainous landscape in a mystic pink glow.
As the hike toughens, a break at the magnificent Danielhütte Mountain Lodge recharges the spirits with a mouth-watering spread of local cheeses, pasta dishes, and strudel. With its rustic Ladin cuisine, a blend of Italian and South Tyrolean dishes, the lodge serves as a delicious pit-stop for the travel-tired hiker.
Upon completing the hike, a rewarding descent escorts you through the shades of dusky meadows to a radiant gold hue that envelopes the rising Dolomite mountains. Top it up with local treats at Baita Seurasas Hütte, and the journey back to the Alpin Garden Luxury Mansion & Spa is a torchlit one.
Another equally invigorating experience is the climb up to Sassolungo’s towering limestone peak. The thrilling climb up the Sassolungo, known affectionately by locals as the ‘king of the mountains’, concludes with a heartwarming meal at Rifugio Toni Demetz, a historical dwelling for explorers and climbers since 1954.
As the thrilling journey concludes, rest awaits at the sauna cabin at Alpin Garden Luxury Mansion & Spa. The exploration of the quaint charm of Ortisei and its local woodwork adds to the richness of the entire experience.
Relive the adventures over a four-course pizza meal at Pizzeria La Turonda as you contemplate the remarkable journey and yearn for more.
Dolomites hiking experience, Alpin Garden Luxury Mansion & Spa, Danielhütte Mountain Lodge, ‘Burning Dolomites’, Sassolungo, Rifugio Toni Demetz, Pizzeria La Turonda, Ladin cuisine