The Dolomites of Belluno

They were named the Dolomites, the Pale Mountains of Belluno, for their limestone, jagged peaks and shaped splintered spires; and they're more breathtaking even without snow! In this region, spring is so colorful and lovely with its lilium parvum and misurina wildflowers waving in those grassy meadows so frequented by busy butterflies. In the winter season, skiers, bundle up in their warm sport's attire, challenging their strength and curiosity; while below, in wooden brown huts, coffee is sipped in hot cups, and steaming polenta is eaten with delight. Alaska has bears and penguins; in this region of Belluno, the paradise of the Alps, only cows are seen grazing, and unbridled horses galloping through grasslands looked above by sleek Churches' steeples. Climbers and trekkers follow their trials and indulge in peace and solitude, hoping to reach their highest peak and contemplate altitude; that's plenty of endurance and patience to see their ego glow! Copyright 2009 by Andrew Crisci