The Dolomites: A Family's Dream Getaway
Hey everyone, as we get closer to our sabbatical, I’ve been thinking a lot about the trips that inspired us. Our first visit to the Dolomites was a huge one—it truly showed us the kind of memories we want to make as a family.
Before I dive into our adventure, I wanted to share a little about these mountains. They’re not just any mountains; they're the remains of a 250-million-year-old coral reef from when this whole area was a tropical ocean! The unique pale peaks glow pink at sunrise and sunset—a magical moment locals call "enrosadira."
The region is also a fascinating mix of cultures. It sits right at the border of Italy and Austria, and you’ll hear people speaking Italian, German, and an ancient language called Ladin. This area was a big battleground in World War I, and you can still see old trenches and tunnels today. It's a humbling reminder of the past.
Today, the Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a paradise for tourists who love adventure and nature. After our trip, it’s easy to see why.
Summer in the Dolomites: A Memory Lane
Our first visit was in the summer, and it was pure magic. We stayed at the Quelle Nature Spa Resort, which felt like a real treat. Our room had a private sauna and jacuzzi, which was a lifesaver. Once the kids were asleep, we finally got some grown-up time.
We had big plans, like hiking to the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo (and yes, it was as epic as the photos!). We also hoped to see the stunning blue Lago di Sorapis, but our little guy got a fever, probably from the altitude. We had to pivot, but it turned out to be a good thing. We slowed down, found a fantastic outdoor playground, and just enjoyed being together without a packed schedule.
Winter Fun: Our Go-To Ski Spot
When the snow falls, we have one place we always go back to: the Feuerstein Nature Family Resort. It’s tucked away in a quiet valley and is the perfect spot for a family ski trip.
Why we love it:
It’s a safe, small ski resort. Our kids could join the ski school, and we didn't have to worry about them on big, crowded slopes. It was perfect for them to learn.
The kids’ activities are endless. Seriously, this place has it all—a woodworking lab, a painting studio, sledding hills, and an amazing indoor pool with slides. There's even a kids' spa with a sauna they call "the room where the dragon sleeps!"
The food is incredible. From the on-site Michelin-starred restaurant to the great buffet, every meal was delicious. Best part? No chicken nuggets on the kids' menu—they get to try real food!
Time for grown-ups. With so much for the kids to do, we had a chance to escape to the adult-only spa. There’s nothing like sipping tea in a warm pool while watching snowflakes fall outside.
Final Thoughts
The Dolomites are a truly special place. They combine wild, beautiful nature with a super thoughtful approach to family travel. We're always impressed by how the locals have built a business model that works for both kids and adults. It just feels smart and welcoming.
This trip truly inspired us to dream bigger. We’re counting down the days until we can go back and make more memories on our sabbatical.