Up in the northeast corner of Italy, we found the Italian Alps. We laid over in alpine meadow land known as Alpe di Siusi in the Dolomite Mountains. The landscape and scenery come as such a surprise if you think of Italy as rolling hills covered with vineyards or as beaches on the Mediterranean. Although these mountains are still Italy, there is a strong German and Austrian influence here, as evidenced by the local names and languages. And, while many locals speak German, you can tell they are Italians by their cheering for the Italian soccer team.

Our base was the Seelaus, a beautiful hotel set amidst the most stunning scenery.

Even so, we rose to the challenge and made a full evening of it. A lingering, relaxed meal gave us more time to get to know each other better, including Karin and Juan.

 

 

 

 

 

 

There were always options for how we could spend our days. After that tremendous meal and a good night's sleep, we had the choice of exploring the town of Kastelruth or joining Karin for an easy-going hike up through an alpine meadow to have lunch at the Arnikahütte at 2060m altitude (about 6760 feet). Rosemary and Dick chose to shop and explore Kastelruth, but the rest of our group decided in favor of the scenic hike.

Glen on the lift

Elizabeth, always with a beautiful smile for the photographer, built a quick snow man along the way.







It looked and felt like we were on top of the world!

We were all so busy talking and laughing that it’s amazing we got very far. But the views just pulled us along. Karin also assured us lunch was coming too.

Sherry, Mary and Ed, Cal and Faye, and Deb are having a beer while waiting for their sandwiches.









And then, with "high spirits," it was back down the mountain to Seelhaus for another evening.

After our hike and another sumptuous supper, we enjoyed the hotel’s spa, swimming pool, hot tub, and sauna before a night of deep and restorative sleep.

Click below to watch Italian Alps Part 1/2 (2:06)		Click below to watch Italian Alps Part 2/2 (2:48)