The Dolomites are widely regarded as being among the most attractive mountain landscapes in the world. Lately, they have become even more popular as they have been recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Site.

A wide range of books and magazines are dedicated to these unique mountains. And video features bring the pictures of the so-called "Pale Mountains" into living rooms all around the world.

So, WHAT makes them unique? Why do these mountains fascinate everyone?

First, their geology is unique. The limestone formations, which are responsible for the characteristic shapes and colours, provide an insight into marine life in the Triassic period, after the greatest extinction event recorded in the history of life on earth.

But there are plenty more arguments to choose the Dolomites as your next outdoor trip destination:

The location:

These mountains are located in the heart of the Alps, easily reachable from several strategic points for example the airports of Munich, Innsbruck, Bolzano, Verona or even Venice. This means a trip to the Dolomites can easily be combined with a visit of one of the surrounding cities. Why not enjoy Venice or some other unique place in the neighbourhood?

Always engaging:

No matter when you decide to visit, every season is worth a trip. During wintertime the shapes of the mountains look fantastic and the Dolomiti Superski Area is the skiing paradise of Europe.

In spring, crosscountry-skiing, skiing, sledging or just walking is great fun. And being in the Southern Alps, the sun will keep you warm!

Summer is great for all kinds of sports: hiking, climbing, mountain-biking, cross-country-running - there is so much to do! And even if you are not doing sports at all, the mountain passes offer great views and the cable cars all over the area bring you to stunning lookout points.

The autumn is the best time for the ‘gourmets of mountains’. The air is sharp and clean and if you get up early there are unique moments waiting for you. Even sunsets are amazing and towards the end of the day all the touristic areas are far less crowded. So it is you, the mountains and some good friends.

For everybody:

As mentioned before you can enjoy the Dolomites even if you are not the sportive type. Some like to drive by car and enjoy the panoramic views on the mountain passes. Others hike, run, bike, ski, climb, sledge ... Up to you!

THE MOUNTAINS:

Most mountain regions offer similar opportunities for recreational activities, but none of those regions can compete with the Dolomites and its spectacular landscape – its distinctive peaks, vertical walls, and sheer cliffs.

First of all there are the Three Peaks, famous all over the world. Really close is the wild and monumental Antelao. At the other side of the valley sits the huge and distinctive Monte Pelmo. Nearby stand the Civetta, the Tofane and the Sellamassif.

It is also worth visiting the less famous areas, as the Lagorai-Group with the Dente di Cece or the Bosconero or the Marmarole. You will find less infrastructure, but wild nature and some of the most wonderful views.