Issue #14: The Dolomites: Italy’s Secret Playground

WHAT YOU’LL FIND IN THIS ISSUE:

• Why the Dolomites are Europe’s best kept secret for outdoor adventure

• A 4-day itinerary for couples & small groups

• Bologna: a cultural reset before or after the trails

• Who this adventure is for

• What’s inspiring us this week

• A little poll

Settle in and Slow Down

Base yourself in a small village like Ortisei or San Cassiano. Both are charming, queer-friendly enough and give you that perfect blend of cosy alpine base and easy access to trailheads.

Arrive mid-afternoon, dump your bags, and take an easy walk to shake off the travel day. I think even a short wander in these mountains feels like a reset.

Either way, you’re rewarded with views so good they make you forget about your bad knees (or is that just me)?

You won’t find a wild scene here, but it’s for couples and small groups who want adventure without the crowd. You should find safe, inclusive stays; LGBTQ+ Friendly Hotels in the Dolomites have you covered.

Lace Up for the Views

Today’s for the big one. The Seceda ridgeline is a must-do: a panorama that’s so perfect it almost looks fake.

You can hike it from the valley floor if you’re up for it, or cheat a bit and take the cable car. Either way, you’ll be in the thick of those jagged limestone peaks that have made this region a UNESCO gem.

Go Off-Grid (a Bit)

Switch it up with a wilder day. Head to Lago di Braies early.

If you get there before the buses roll in, you can still find that hush that makes you feel like you’re the only one around.

In the afternoon, pick a lesser-known valley for a more local hike such as Val di Funes. It has gentle meadows and a postcard-perfect view of the Odle peaks.

Grab a picnic lunch and watch the clouds roll past. Spend the morning in a mountain hut (a rifugio), sharing a plate of polenta and a cold beer with other wanderers.

If you’re up for a final push, a short forest loop or a wild swim in a mountain lake will do the trick. Otherwise, just watch the sun fade behind the peaks

Who it’s good for:
Small groups of friends who want to feel free, safe, and held by nature

And If You’ve Got Time… Bologna’s Calling

If you’re flying in through Bologna or fancy a couple of days to slow it right down before or after your mountain fix, this foodie city is worth a detour.

You could do:

· Wine tasting in the Colli Bolognesi hills — rustic vineyards, small family-run cellars

· Slow lunch in a countryside trattoria

· Optional: cycle a few easy miles through the hills if you’re feeling sporty

Beware, Bologna isn’t for everyone. The city’s ‘rough-around-the-edges’ charm might feel a bit too low-key if you’re a bit bougie. In August, the city practically empties out as locals escape the heat. Some find it peaceful, others might feel it’s too quiet.

What This Adventure Offers:

 Flexible activities: You can choose short forest walks or cable car rides if little legs (or older knees!) aren’t up for long hikes.

• Queer travellers: Safe and easy-going here, no big scene, just warm welcomes

• Perfect for couples and small groups who want real connection, not just group selfies

• Fresh air and fresh perspectives: No group tours, no strict itineraries

Nature immersion: Kids love seeing the cows in alpine meadows and older family members will appreciate the fresh air and slow pace.

Mountain huts: Rifugios offer hearty food and easy rest stops.

Lakes and cable cars: These provide fun, low-intensity outings.

Who It’s Not For

• If you’re on a tight budget, high season can sting

• Public transport’s a bit patchy, so you’ll want a car to unlock those lesser-known valleys

A Flexible 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Easy Exploring

• Base in Ortisei or San Cassiano, - small, charming, and safe for LGBTQ+ travellers

• Wander the village, grab a local gelato, and stretch your legs on an easy forest trail

• Sunset at your digs.

Day 2: Big Mountain Adventure

• Hike to the Seceda ridgeline or take the cable car if you’re easing in

• Picnic lunch with peaks all around this is the Dolomites’ greatest hits moment

• Optional: wild swim in a mountain lake (yes, it’s cold, but it’s glorious)

Day 3: Off-the-Beaten-Path Valleys

• Early start at Lago di Braies, best if you’re there before the crowds

• Afternoon in Val di Funes for gentle trails and mountain meadows

• Dinner in a local rifugio (mountain huts) with comfort food and no fuss

Day 4: Rest or Ramp Up

• Legs tired? Take a scenic cable car for more views with less effort

• Feeling energised? Hike a short loop in the forest

• Wrap the trip with local wine and slow conversations

Optional Add-On: 2 Days in Bologna

• Swap the trails for porticoes and pasta

• Wander medieval lanes and eat everything in sight

• More about slowing down than gearing up, it’s a cultural reset to bookend the trip.

Outro

Ready to swap the crowds for cool mountain air and quiet nights under the stars? The Dolomites are waiting. Let us know if you’ve been or if it’s next on your list.