An intense storm system is hammering the region, dropping significant snow on top of an already fragile snowpack. So far, up to 30 cm (12 inches) of fresh snow has fallen in the Pre-Alps above 1,500 meters (4,900 feet), while the Dolomites have picked up around 15 cm (6 inches)-with much more on the way. The fresh snow is falling onto a poorly bonded surface layer left over from last weekend, which itself sits on deep, persistent weak layers made up of angular crystals-a classic recipe for avalanches.
I didn't expect a three-day trip to northeastern Italy to result in a full-blown infatuation with sauna culture, pine trees, and one of the oldest towns in the South Tyrol region. For that, I credit Forestis, a mountainside spa hotel that sits nearly 6,000 feet above sea level-directly facing the craggy peaks of the Dolomites-just a short, albeit winding, drive from Brixen.
Tonelli traveled the world climbing mountains and riding down them with his LAST bike in no-fall zones. He and Giovanni Mattielo are credited with the first mountain bike ascent and descent of Argentina's 22,211-foot Cerro Mercedario in January 2025.
'With Every Step' consists of 146 wooden poles arranged to form an anamorphic message, visible only from a specific vantage point, emphasizing spatial engagement.
Forestis Hotel offers a luxurious escape in Italy's Dolomites, providing direct mountain views, access to numerous outdoor activities, and a focus on wellness and relaxation.