Imagine lands where time slows down and nature speaks without filters: welcome to Valbelluna, an ancient and vibrant valley that combines the culture of walled cities with the strength of forests and lakes. Here every village, every path, every dish tells a story to be discovered.

Climbing through the streets of the centre of Belluno means crossing elegant squares, with centuries-old fountains and glimpses of landscapes that suddenly open up to reveal the Belluno Dolomites. Not far away, Feltre reveals its medieval soul: every August, the Palio transforms the city into a journey through time, with costumed knights, archery tournaments and galloping horses. In Mel, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, with stately homes and the Castle of Zumelle, stories of battles come to life, while a few steps away the Blue Grotto and the Paleoveneta necropolis hold mysteries that still today offer surprises.

The nature in Valbelluna changes each season. In winter, the Alpe del Nevegal is a reference point for skiing and snowshoeing overlooking the Belluno Dolomites, while in summer it becomes a natural gym for trekking, MTB and Nordic walking. Further east lies the Cansiglio, the plateau with one of the oldest forests in Europe: a place that fascinates with its centuries-old beech trees, rich fauna and autumn foliage that transforms the landscape into a mosaic of golden colours. Where the highlands meet, the Alpago opens up, with Lake Santa Croce, loved by athletes for the constant wind that makes it ideal for sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing, but also for those looking for a relaxing break in its clear waters.

This territory is also narrated through its flavours and traditions. From the Gialét bean, a slow food product, to the PDO honey of the Belluno Dolomites, to the dishes that are never lacking on tables – pastìn handcrafted sausage, pumpkin gnocchi, panada (bread soup), cheeses such as Piave and Nevegal, polenta and mushrooms – every taste is an encounter with the identity of the territory.

In the villages and towns, the artisan culture still survives: ancient crafts, craftsmanship and local festivals become an opportunity for meeting and discovery. Throughout the year there are events that enliven the valley: from Christmas markets to historical re-enactments, moments in which communities and visitors come together to share know-how, good food and conviviality.

The Three Peaks of Lavaredo are the universal symbol of the Dolomites: three rock towers that rise to guard landscapes that seem carved. Climbing up here, along paths that wind between forked roads and shelters, means entering a place that combines nature and memory, with the trenches of the Great War and breathtaking views.

At the edge of the Three Peaks lie two iconic bodies of water: Lake Misurina, the largest in the Dolomites, and the more secluded Lake Antorno. Both offer unique landscapes, with the peaks and forests reflected in the water, creating different atmospheres according to the seasons.

Not far away, Auronzo di Cadore combines sport and tradition: in winter the slopes of Monte Agudo offer sunny descents, while in summer the artificial lake becomes the scene of day outings, with biking along the cycle path of the Dolomites and boating trips.

Further north, on the border with Austria, the Comelico is a secluded and authentic valley, far from the busiest centres of the Dolomites. Padola is its heart, with sunny ski slopes suitable for families, and countless itineraries to follow with snowshoes, among silent woods and unspoilt nature. In summer, trails and e-bikes open up new perspectives, among mountain huts and pastures. But Comelico is not only nature: it is also a garrison of Ladin culture, which lives in the language spoken every day, in popular folk festivals, and in wooden and stone architectures that reveal a deep bond with the mountains.

The journey ends in Cadore, a wide and varied land that combines nature, art and culture. Pieve di Cadore is home to the birthplace of Tiziano Vecellio, one of the geniuses of the Renaissance, while the nearby villages tell the story of a territory that has been able to survive on wood, crafts and trade. The Lake of Centro Cadore reflects landscapes that change with the seasons, inviting you to discover the mountain even in its most intimate and daily aspects. This is an area that is not only a gateway to the Dolomites, but the beating heart of their history and traditions.

The 3,343-metre Marmolada is the undisputed Queen of the Dolomites. Here in summer, the paths of the Great War and the via ferrata assisted trails tell of landscapes and memories that are part of European history. A cable car leads to Punta Rocca, where the panoramic terrace seems suspended, giving a unique view of the glacier and rock faces; from here the legendary La Bellunese track starts, 12 km downhill to the Fodom Valley.

Going down to the valley, the landscape opens up to reveal the Castle of Andraz, an ancient fortress of the eleventh century, a strategic garrison along the transit routes that today reminds us of the military and administrative past of these lands. Around the castle lies the valley, known in Ladin as ‘Fodom’: here the language, legends and traditions remain alive in the community.

Colle Santa Lucia appears on its panoramic altar, with the silhouette of the Civetta in the background, while Livinallongo del Col di Lana preserves the memory of a mountain that became a symbol of the First World War.

At the centre of the valley is Arabba, the heart of the area for sports lovers. In winter it is one of the ski capitals: the slopes that descend from Porta Vescovo connect to Sellaronda and Marmolada, offering technical descents and spectacular views. In summer, the mountain itself becomes a starting point for hiking, trekking and cycling routes that stretch to the great Dolomite passes – Pordoi, Campolongo, Falzarego – places that have always inspired the dreams of travellers and sports enthusiasts.