The Joy of Living!

"Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy's premier mountain resort is exclusively positioned in the breathtaking UNESCO World Natural Heritage Dolomites, one of the most beautiful and unique alpine regions in the world. A 'Best of the Alps' resort and a symbol of style, fashion and the Italian way of life, Cortina is the perfect destination for those who seek a truly special holiday experience where natural beauty, culture, tradition, art, food and wine fuse together in pure joie de vivre."

Joie de vivre, indeed! Somewhat reminiscent of Whistler BC, Cortina - with its spectacular mountains, superb cuisine and Funivia per Cielo (gondola-to-the heavens) - is a beautiful place to spend a few days living the good life of skiing. But unlike Whistler, the town is authentic (my hotel is right across the square from a centuries-old church complete with clanging bell tower) and not quite as cosmopolitan; meaning that the skiers are mostly Italianos...and a few foreigners like me.

The weather continues cold and wet which fortunately means snow here. Unfortunately that also means foggy on top...with occasional sun breaks - so the best plan is to stay low and only skitter up to the top when you see a sunny moment or two. I have had two great days of skiing here: one on traditional alpino skis (boo!) and the other on a pair of my beloved telemark skis. Yes! Do not let them tell you otherwise: there is a little shop of righteous hipsters here that rents "scis tele" and I was very glad to find them. (Apparently I have forgotten how to ski with my heels attached to a ski!)

The Funivia!

Here comes the fog...

But all "fun-ivia" must end and I head down the hill today via bus, train, train and bus back to Aviano. Quick-hit memories: stunning train ride up the valley; scary gondola rides; corduroy runs in the mornings; NO snowboarders, NO play parks; blessed sunbreaks; vino rosso with lunch overlooking fog/limestone peaks/fog/valley views/fog...

And only ONE fur coat sighting! Apparently even the rich and famous know better these days.

NEWS FLASH! A quick stroll on the street outside my hotel this afternoon proved me wrong about the above fur coat comment. Although you have to admit that those guilty of wearing 'critter coats' appear more like skier wannabes.

While the younger après-ski crowd seem to be more into Lycra stretchy pants, down jackets and "boots made for pushing il bambini around town".