Places of interest in the Dolomites

The Dolomites are a further enhancement of Italy's reputation as the cultural capital of the world, so on your arrival, we look forward to proposing several interesting day trips. Driving amid such spectacular scenery will be one of the great pleasures of your holiday. Motoring conditions in the Dolomites are good and not typical of other parts of Italy. No matter which direction you take, you will soon be in awe of your surroundings, and your journeys will be as delightful as your destinations.

The South Tyrol has as many mediaeval castles as any province in Europe, most with precious frescoes and arcaded courtyards. There are churches, monasteries, ruins and numerous museums. Cortina has several, including the open-air Museum of Flora, Fauna and Mineralogy and the Museum of Palaeontology, which will fascinate anyone absorbed by the region's unique geology. On every trip you will pass through the most enchanting villages, famous for nothing but unforgettable all the same.

Cortina is a stunning twenty mile drive from Arabba and Pedraces. Set amidst soaring peaks and soft green meadows, it is a world famous mountain village and a window-shopper's paradise. A pedestrianised 'corso' is lined with antique shops and elegant boutiques. In the piazza is the beautiful 225ft. campanile, which dominates the town and is clearly visible to those walking in the surrounding countryside. In August, Cortina hosts a vintage car rally, which attracts participants and spectators from all over Europe.

There are other towns of great beauty and interest. Agordo is charming and its Wednesday street market dominates its piazza and most of the streets nearby. A visit to Bolzano, the provincial capital of the South Tyrol, is a must. This enchanting city is nestled spectacularly below a crescent of impressive peaks, giving each of its porticoed streets the most stunning of backdrops, which might temporarily divert you from the colourful markets, picturesque piazzas, cafes, beer gardens and the many interesting shops, including some excellent mountain sports outlets. Moreover, the city's Museum of Archaeology now plays host to one of the world's most astounding discoveries, which has put Bolzano on the world map.

the iceman

There are other towns of great beauty and interest. Agordo is charming and its Wednesday street market dominates its piazza and most of the streets nearby. A visit to Bolzano, the provincial capital of the South Tyrol, is a must. This enchanting city is nestled spectacularly below a crescent of impressive peaks, giving each of its porticoed streets the most stunning of backdrops, which might temporarily divert you from the colourful markets, picturesque piazzas, cafes, beer gardens and the many interesting shops, including some excellent mountain sports outlets. Moreover, the city's Museum of Archaeology now plays host to one of the world's most astounding discoveries, which has put Bolzano on the world map.

In 1991, the almost perfectly preserved body of a Neolithic hunter was discovered trapped in a glacier in the Otztaler Alps on the Austro-Italian border. The discovery of the 'Iceman' enabled archaeologists to re-examine theories concerning Neolithic man, since 'Otzi', carbon-dated to 5300 years old, was found with a complete suit of clothes and a full complement of equipment, including a bow in mid-construction, a copper-bladed axe and numerous instruments made from flint and bone, all of which are on display with 'Otzi' himself.

Further afield are some of the most alluring cities in the world. Venice is less than three hours by car and ideal for a memorable day out. Padua is another gem and home of the Arena Chapel, where Giotto painted some of the Renaissance's most touching frescoes. Verona is magnificent and its roman amphitheatre is the home of concerts and, of course, its much-celebrated opera. Our responsibility to you is to give you as much information and guidance as possible, so that you can get the very best out of the area and the many interesting events that take place here throughout the summer. We keep information on places of interest and local events, such as craft fairs, beer festivals, village festivals, vintage car rallies, concerts, markets etc. For more details see here.