Milky Way Seceda, Italy

Starry height

Seen here soaked in soft light spilled from the Milky Way, one of the Dolomites' northernmost summits looms over the Würzjoch pass in South Tyrol, Italy. If the stars seem so close you can almost touch them, there's a way to get closer still: Experienced night hikers can get all the way to the saddle between Peitlerkofel's peaks on a long yet leisurely trail. Those seeking a greater challenge can earn an even better stargazing spot on the shorter of the two summits, via a steep, strenuous push.