Nestled in the mountains of northeastern Italy is the quaint and picturesque town of Cortina d’Ampezzo. Cortina, as the locals refer to it, sits in the heart of the Veneto Dolomites, a mountains range that is part of the Alps and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cortina was propelled into the spotlight by the Winter Olympics in 1956 and will soon be hosting the 2026 Winter Olympics. The region offers majestic peaks and spectacular views which in the winter makes for 140 ski runs, or, during the rest of the year, hiking trails, Via Ferrata (climbing routes with cables and ladders) and mountaintop refugios complete with cafes, bars and rustic accommodations. The city is found in the valley below and the more extreme locations and adventures are accessible by funivia – cable cars, gondolas and funiculars.

The closest major airport is Venice, and while Europe has fantastic trains, we rented a car as it offered us the flexibility to enjoy the town as well as the surrounding towns and valleys. The entire area is an idyllic alpine retreat that offers many options of trails to explore forests, meadows, streams, and more. We enjoyed some amazing hiking spots along enchanting lakes, among them Lake Misurina which is the largest alpine lake in the Dolomites, Lake Sorapis famous for its aquamarine water and Lake Braies with its Alpine lodging and dining. Our entire stay, we were dwarfed by the Tre Cime di Lavaredo the three distinctive peaks that tower above the valley.

Enchanting lakes, natural beauty, beautiful walking trails with majestic views make Cortina d’Ampezzo a perfect ESCAPADITA.