This excursion loops around the Sesto and
Cortina regions of the Dolomiti (Dolomite Mountains) providing you
with breath-taking views of the beautiful scenery. Numerous stops
are made throughout the day, limiting driving time time to a
minimum. Within an hours drive from Venice, emerge into a land of
towering peaks and spires, peaceful valleys with lively villages
with white-washed farmhouses which dot the terraces above. Before
entering the Sesto region, famous for its innumerable jagged
peaks, stop for morning coffee at Pieve di Cadore. A typical
Italian village, surrounded by soaring peaks and birthplace of the
Renaissance painter Titian. Then stop to admire Lake Santa
Caterina, followed by a photo-stop at the majestic Mt. Sorapiss
still partly covered in snow. Next visit Lake Misurina, "the
pearl of the Dolomites". Famous for its breath-taking views
of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the most celebrated peaks of the
Sesto region. Following Lake Misurina, drive up to the base of the
Tre Cime at an altitude of 7741 ft (2360m). From this point, the
views of the Dolomiti are truly spectacular with unlimited
photographic opportunities as you gaze across a myriad of peaks
and mountain ranges that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in an idyllic location, then a short
(optional) walk is offered along a level trail to further
appreciate the dramatic scenery of the area. In the afternoon,
drive in to the Cortina region to visit the cosmopolitan resort of
Cortina D'Ampezzo, pausing at a panoramic viewpoint to admire the
town circled by soft green meadows and towering mountains. Enjoy
free time to wander around the town with its streets lined with
elegant boutiques, or relax at one of the street-side café's. In
the late afternoon, travel back to Venice, passing several major
peaks you'll have plenty of time to savor the different colors of
the Dolomites in the late afternoon sun.
