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Epic ride through Dolomites and Alps - part 2

By John Harden, 23/12/2013 14:21:06
Next morning, it was off for some fun riding. I was staying a few nights at Hotel Posta Zirm, so the plan was to head out for a day of riding, sightseeing, lunch, more riding, then wind up back at the hotel for the evening.
Next morning, it was off for some fun riding. I was staying a few nights at Hotel Posta Zirm, so the plan was to head out for a day of riding, sightseeing, lunch, more riding, then wind up back at the hotel for the evening. 

I headed "UP" out of town to higher elevations, which was a bit weird as the town is already quite high. Corvara and the surrounding mountain areas depend on the land for their survival. Lots of farms, cattle, sheep, yet, they definitely recognize the importance that motorcyclists play in their local economies. During the summer months, motorcyclists make up the majority of the traffic way up here. 

These high elevation mountain roads were built decades ago and have been rendered obsolete by their modern "highways". They still serve an important role and of course motorcyclists love them.



At the top of each mountain pass, you'll find a hotel, souvenir shop, restaurant etc., Sometimes, it is only one of these and other times, it is all three. 

One thing they have in common is they all sell small stickers that commerorate their location. Motorcyclists buy these and place the stickers on their bikes.



The Italian Dolomites are extrordinarily beautiful. Late in the year the air is crystal clear, yet not too cold. Day times are in the 50's (F), and the land is still green and the flowers still blooming. The scenery is out of this world gorgeous....




Corvara, Italy

The mountain roads in the Dolomites are extremely well maintained. Before the tunnels through the mountains and the highways, they were the only way to get around. They follow the countours of the land as they rise and fall and make for fabulous riding.

This is a pic headed down into Corvara. I had swung by Cortina for lunch and some quick sightseeing then continued on a long loop.



Good thing there wasn't much traffic as I was constantly pulling over to take photos. I kept my little point and shoot Canon in my right front pocket in my riding jacket. After awhile I figured out that by leaving the lanyard hanging out, I could quickly grab it take a shot and stuff it back in all without having to get off the bike.

Made it very easy to get great shots like this one.



My log says I left Corvara that morning at 6 AM and got back at 4:30. Bike was on fumes and the gas station had no attendent and only accepted cash. Fortunately I had a 20E note stuck in my jacket pocket for emergencies and was able to fill up.
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