It was the last leg on the first day of hiking in the Dolomiti. A steep hill loomed in front, an ascent that seemed to get longer the more closer I got. The evening sun was shining brightly, and I prodded on, encouraged by the thoughts of a cool shower, delicious pasta and wine at the rifugio for the night.
I turned around, looking back at the way I had come. The Cinque Torri (5 Towers), which seemed mighty up close, was dwarfed by the towering Tofana di Rozes rising 3000ft across the valley. Clouds marched across the region in a brisk pace, and alternating light and shadows followed them across the rugged geology. The dramatic profile of the Tofana was in full view, along with the innumerable hiking trails and climbing routes that cris-crossed this jaw-dropping terrain.
Scenes like these were all over this beautiful region of Italy. I, for one, will never forget this incredible trip.
Rifugio Averau
Cortina Italy