Castelrotto

This small town nestled at the foot of the Dolomite Mountains was an ideal home base for exploring the Alpe di Siusi. The entire northern region of Italy is know as South Tyrol and until WWI belonged to Austria. the region is known for it’s wood carving and yodeling and German is the predominant language.

Native Tyrol dress at Corpus Christi procession

The town lies just below the Schlern Plateau and is surrounded by dazzling mountain peaks. The biodiversity of the Alpe di Siusi is extraordinary with over 790 species of flowering plants and over 500 different species of moss and lichen. The fields and forests are a maze of wildflowers, colors, scents, and textures. The alpine fields are rich in herbs and flowers and the aromatic hay has been used for “hay baths” so the body could absorb the herbal vapors and cures from lying of the dried hay from the Alpe di Siusi.

Wonderful fields of flowers and herbs

However, all good things must end and it is time to depart from Castelrotto and my home for a week at Hotel Cavallino d’ Oro. Stefan and Susanne (owners) and Monica, Freda and their wonderful staff were warm and welcoming hosts and the food, wine, grappa and dining experience exceptional. This is a must stay place if you are traveling to the Dolomites!

Susanne and Freda

Freda, Gwen, and Monica

Freda and Stefan

It was grand and I will miss those tower bells. Now onto Venice.