Arguably the most stunning mountainscape of the Alps, the Dolomites of northeastern Italy were formed over a million years ago, surging forth from the ocean floor in a series of violent volcanic eruptions. Sculpted by the elements for thousands of years, these immense formations of rock no longer tower above the sea, but reign serenely over the lush pine forests and verdant meadows of the eastern Alps. In the peaceful valleys of Gardena, Alta Badia and Cortina, the cultures of Austria and Italy have slowly blended over the centuries to create one of the Alps' most unique environments. |