A Final Ascent from Ortisei – Wrapping Up the Dolomites Series

This was taken from the gondola ride up to the Alpe di Siusi plateau, just before we started the Panorama Trail. Below us: the village of Ortisei, spread out across Val Gardena, framed by forest and meadow.

It's one of those moments where the hike hasn't started yet, but the views already have. A short, silent glide upward — full of fresh air, fresh legs, and that familiar mix of excitement and quiet focus before another trail unfolds.

With this image, I'm wrapping up my Dolomites series. A genuinely fantastic region. I only wish there had been more time — so many places still to photograph, and I can only imagine what it must look like in autumn or winter.
Plenty of reasons to return... though the world beyond still calls, too.
What a luxury problem. 😊