The Dolomites offer a variety of alpine habitats within easy reach, from the wooded valleys and lush pastures, to the alpine meadows and the rocky snow melt areas which flank the rugged alpine passes. It is a wonderful place for relaxing walks amongst the stunning flowers and landscapes with plenty of photographic opportunities.

Our visit is timed to get the best of the early summer flora. Depending on how long winter lasts, we should catch the last of the early flowering Spring Crocus and Alpine Pasque Flower as well as Primula minima, Primula haleri and the lovely Soldanella snowbells. Many of the gems of the alpine world make their homes in these mountains and the meadows and woodlands that surround them; daphnes, gentians and a plethora of orchids should be amongst the prizes to be found, including Military Orchid, Globe-flowered Orchid, Coral-root Orchid and the stunning Lady’s Slipper Orchid.

We will be based at Campitello in the Val di Fassa. Campitello comes form the Latin word campus, small field. Located at the feet of the Col Rodella and close to the Val Duron, Campitello di Fassa is known for its typical architecture made of barns and narrow streets. The Val di Fassa is one of the places where Ladin, the oldest language in the Alpine region is still spoken. It emerged in the 1st century AD from the fusion of the Celtic culture of the Rhaetic people and the Roman one. There is also a strong tradition of woodcarving and you will have the chance to visit one of the shops near our hotel where the craft is still practised.