Sunday, 9 May 2010

Headed off early with Josef heading for the Dolomites while Louise stayed behind for a bit of R & R. Went through the Groden (Val Gardena) ski area and up to the Sella Pass at 2240m. Passed a number of dairy farmers on the road with their stainless steel milk cans waiting for the truck to come along and collect it (in bulk). The signs here are all tri-lingual - German, Italian and a local dialect. Thick snow up this high and 2C, sun shining after a cloudy start. Crossed the Pordoi Pass also 2240m. Morning coffee in Stern which is the world cup gaint slalom site. This whole area is ski field followed by ski field, all connected, going for kilometres. Saw a marmot running in the snow, a small furrry animal. Arrived in Cortina which is in a stunning setting surrounded by mountains. The town itself, which hosted the Winter Olympics many years ago, is a bit faded. Headed back via Lake Miscurina with lunch by Duransee at Baur's Hotel looking up at the Drei Zinnen (three towers) one of the notable features of the Dolomites. The Dolomites is a huge mountain area well known to skiers. In summer it is a hikers domain and there are trails and huts everywhere, all very well maintained. We also passed many cyclists grinding up the mountain roads and racing down the other side. Meanwhile Louise had enjoyed a lovely mother's day lunch with Josef's mother, Rosa, his sister, Erika, her husband, Klaus, and their two sons Michael & Daniel, and Josef's brother Richard - schnitzel followed by huge preserved cherries and home made cake which we also enjoyed on our return. We are extremely grateful to Josef and his mother for their wonderful hospitality and also to Josef for being such a great tour guide in this fabulous region of South Tirol. Thank you so much.
Left Josef's at 4.00pm heading for Lago di Garda. For the first time we winging it with no firm destination or people we know at the other end. Hit the north end of the lake with a big line of traffic towing boats crawling in the opposite direction as the weekend finished. Stopped at Malcesine about quarter of the way down and Louise made an executive mother's day decision on a "room with a view" at the Hotel S Marco. A beautiful place, even in the light rain. Very touristy which is OK for us tourists. Very enjoyable dinner for two at Ristorante Pizzeria Garden by Italy's largest lake.