Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park

The Belluno Dolomites National Park, which stretches from the Cismon valley to the Piave valley, was established in 1990 to protect this zone of tremendous natural importance, which has long been recognized for the beauty of its distinct flora and fauna. As a result, the decision was made to safeguard its 32000 hectares of "outstanding natural scenery" from winter sport development (hotels, ski-lifts, etc).

The region is currently a world-class national historic site were nature reigns supreme. The great variety of the environment impresses one the most, owing to its 'inaccessible' location on the boundaries of the south-eastern Alps, which saw the creation of glaciers in prehistoric times (the last disappearing over 10000 years ago). The park includes sections of middle and high-range mountains, including the summits of the Schiarà, Sass de Mura, Pavone, and Pizzn. Aside from its natural beauty, the area is blessed with a rich and diversified culture: the little towns facing the Piave valley (Feltrino and Bellunese) differ from those in the Val di Zoldo, which have dramatically different features.

There are significant differences between the Tre Cime di Lavaredo and the Bellunese Dolomites, which are known as the "pale mountains" due to the color of the rockface. Invigorating plateaux and perilous rockfaces are the haunts of golden eagles, birds practically legendary for their elegance, noble and magnificent flying through the heavens, and species rarity. The highest and most difficult to reach zones, of course, enthrone the most desired natural environs, yet the valley bottom and other regions accessible to non-expert climbers nevertheless present a magnificent landscape rich in streams and flora. Summer is the greatest season to visit, when their floors are abundantly carpeted with flowers.

Location: Province of Belluno, Veneto, Italy