Seceda, a peak in the Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy

Beauty with an edge. Seceda, Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy

Italy's Dolomites don't just tower; they enchant, turning every trail into a story. Fondly known as the 'Pale Mountains,' the Dolomites derive their name from dolomite—a carbonate mineral. Set in the northern Italian Alps, the range spans almost 16,000 square kilometres and boasts 18 soaring peaks that rise above 2,900 metres. These mountains feature sheer cliffs, lofty walls and a maze of narrow, winding valleys.

Amid the dramatic landscape of the Dolomites lies one of its most spectacular peaks, Seceda, featured in today's image. With a height of around 2,500 metres, it offers the highest panoramic viewpoint in Val Gardena, a scenic valley in the province of South Tyrol. A short cable car ride takes you to the summit, bypassing what would otherwise be a strenuous hike. Once at the top, you're greeted by a stunning sweep of the Dolomites' iconic jagged ridgelines. On a clear day, you might even spot Austria's tallest mountain, the Großglockner, located more than 145 kilometres away.