What is new to write about the Dolomites after so many visits? Thinking about the trip over morning coffee, I jotted down a few thoughts. Here they are, in no particular order:
Helmets
From this year it is compulsory to wear helmets when resort skiing in Italy. Crossing the Dolomites on skis requires the use of lifts, so we had to comply. Easy enough for those who habitually wear helmets, but for those who don’t, it felt like a mildly grumpiness-inducing inconvenience. In the end, no big deal.
Francesco
One member of this year’s team described him as “uplifting,” which is a lovely and very accurate way to describe him. He is one of life’s energy-givers: a true professional and, to top it off, an amazingly talented skier.
Food
Over the years, trips to the Dolomites have consistently offered the best food of any ski trips I’ve done. This year was no exception. The quality and variety are still very much there. I suspect we consumed more calories than we expended!
Scenery
As with the food, the Dolomites never disappoint. The scenery we travelled through was as stunning as ever.
Companionship
You’ve heard the saying before: “Mountains are just mountains — it’s people that make them special.” We shared plenty of laughs and enjoyed precious time outdoors together, privileged to be where we were and with whom we were.
Skiing
And let’s not forget the skiing. The snow was challenging at times, but overall it was pretty good.
Alla prossima!