Wanderlust Travel Magazine (UK)
3 ZINNEN DOLOMITES
The 3 Zinnen Dolomites holiday region offers a wild range of scenery; from those distinctive sky-skimming Three Peaks through to the bucolic charms of the Val Fiscalina valley, from the romance of the Lago di Braies lake to the flower-filled and rolling meadows of the 2,000m high Prato Piazza.
Found in the north-east of South Tyrol, this natural playground has a spirit-soaring sweep of things to see and do. Even better, with the mountain cableways open and running from May to November, summer proves one of best times to explore with easy access to those lofty starting points for a high-altitude adventure.
PEAK PERFECTION
With trails to suit all abilities, hiking is undoubtedly one of the biggest draws to the region. For example, the Three Peaks Lodge Tour is an intrepid circuit – via the Zsigmondyhütte, Büllelejochhütte and Dreizinnenhütte huts – that rewards walkers with the impressive northern faces of those famous Three Peaks.
Early risers should also aim to make for the 360° panoramic viewpoint at the summit of Monte Elmo – the Monte Elmo cable car is on hand to help out here – where a sunrise ascent will give you some brag-worthy Instagram shots and a great story to come home with.
Switching to two wheels, there are myriad bike trails that are backed up by equipment hire, guides and bike schools. The undulating 120km-long Stoneman Trail has established itself as a daring challenge on Europe’s mountain bike scene while the newly created Erla and Standschützen downhill trails inject a healthy dose of adrenaline in those who like to swoosh down the single track.
MOUNTAIN RE-TREATS
However you plan to tackle the peaks, a pitstop at any of the welcoming mountain huts comes recommended. They can prove either the target destination of your trail through the Three Peaks Nature Reserve, or a refreshing pause on a longer adventure. For example, tackle the strenuous Toblacher Alpine Ridgeway and you can turn this into a more manageable two-day trek, with an overnight stay at the Bonnerhütte mountain hut.
As you journey, savour delights like the hearty South Tyrolean Marende of Speck bacon, cheese and Schüttelbrot flatbread, (paired with wine), try Schlutzkrapfen (a ravioli-like dish) and indulge in the pancakesweet Kaiserschmarrn dessert.
There are further local gastronomic delights to tempt travellers at farmhouse inns, such as the sunny terrace of Kinigerhof farm in Sesto (also locally known as Sexten), or there’s even Michelin star dining to be found: try Restaurant Tilia in Dobbiaco (Toblach).
After a long day of exploration, Italy’s first Kneipp Active Park can be found in Villabassa (Niederdorf) and makes for a therapeutic treat. Cold-water treading, barefoot walks on wet grass and cooling mudpacks will quickly soothe tired feet and soon have you back on the path of adventure.