Marilyn's Odyssey: The Italian Dolimites

We spent an amazing time exploring this beautiful area of Italy. Picturesque rolling meadows are surrounded by grey towering peaks of dolimite. This Alpe di Siusi is the largest alpine meadow in Europe. The hills are dotted with old cabins which are used by the hikers during the summer months. All of this land is owned by the farmers down in the valley. They move their livestock up into this very fertile area for the summer and then on October 4 the cattle are all herded down the hill during a large local festival. We spent the morning on a guided walk with Kathy, an expert on the local area and the legends of old. A most beautiful and informative hike that ended at a hut in the meadows where we enjoyed some delicious local delights. Eric and I then set off on our own and hiked up to the top of the ridge where the surrounding views were breathtaking. Everywhere you looked was a postcard view. Enjoyed watching the cows being herded in two very different ways, one by the traditional herders even dressed in liederhaus and the other by a farmer on his motorcycle. The small alpine town of Compatsch doubles as the hiking center in summer and an active ski town in winter. The whole day was a treat and both of us had some good Camino moments. We stayed in a wonderful family run chalet where we were served beautifully plated five course meals.