This fall, I took a trip to Italy just for the fun of it! Traveling has always been a passion of mine—exploring new places, tasting local food, and soaking in the atmosphere. Italy was an absolute dream. I brought my camera along, as I always do, and loved capturing the little things that made the trip unforgettable. From sunlit paths in Lake Garda to cozy cafes and vibrant markets, I couldn’t resist photographing everything that caught my eye. Traveling with my camera is a way to preserve memories, but also a way to stay inspired by the beauty of the world around me. This trip was a perfect reminder of why I love combining photography with adventure: it turns every new journey into a collection of stories worth telling. Italy truly stole my heart!

Lake Garda, Italy: Where Mountains Meet the Lake

I began my journey in the enchanting Lake Garda region, where the shimmering blue waters meet the rugged mountains in a breathtaking display of natural beauty. Lake Garda feels truly magical, with its sparkling lakes, charming villages, and dramatic mountain landscapes. Exploring the cobblestone streets of Sirmione, taking a serene ferry ride across the lake, or wandering through the quaint town of Malcesine, every view feels like a postcard come to life.

We stayed at a cozy bed and breakfast nestled in the mountains—a hidden gem accessible only by a winding, single-lane road. The sunsets from the mountaintop were nothing short of spectacular, though I’d always find my hands drenched in sweat from navigating the twists and turns to get there!

As an avid hiker, no trip feels complete without a mountain adventure. The trails here wind through rolling vineyards and olive groves, offering stunning views and moments of serenity far from the tourist crowds. We were joined by some friends who were into paragliding and cliff jumping. After reaching the summit, they took off in the most exhilarating way—flying down the mountainside—while we hiked our way back down.

Don’t miss the mountain huts during your hike—they’re stocked with fresh local fruits, regional liquors, and unbeatable pastries. And a must-try? The limoncello! Every area has its own variation, making it a delicious way to experience the region’s unique flavors.

Unfortunately, my trip took an unexpected turn when I came down with a nasty illness. I discovered there was a boil water advisory in the area where I was staying, and it left me very sick. This was an important reminder to always check local health advisories and tap water quality when traveling—something I’ll definitely be more mindful of in the future. If you’re planning a trip to Italy (or any new destination), take a moment to check on local water quality in the area you’re visiting. Trust me, it can save you from an unpleasant experience.

Castle ruins on the side of a mountain at Lake Garda in Italy

Vineyards line the mountains with tiny homes at Lake Garda in Italy

Castle ruins next to lake with boat and mountains in background at Lake Garda in Italy

paraglider soars along mountains at Lake Garda in Italy

Man stands on dock and looks at sailboat in lake at Lake Garda in Italy

Line of sailboats in the lake with castle ruins as the suns sets in background at Lake Garda in Italy

Mall shopping sign with mountains in background at Lake Garda in Italy

Winter’s Wonder: The Dolomites’ Snowy Magic

Before we left for our trip, I was praying for the perfect mix of fall colors and snow—and I nearly burst into tears when my wish came true. The Dolomite Mountains are absolutely epic, and the drive from Lake Garda to Campitello di Fassa was nothing short of breathtaking. As we made our way through this stunning landscape, we passed through some incredible sights, including the location where the 2026 Winter Olympics will be held. The views were surreal—snow-capped peaks, rolling autumn foliage, and quaint mountain towns dotting the route.

We stayed in a charming rental house in the cozy village of Campitello di Fassa, nestled in the heart of the Dolomites. Visiting during the off-season meant we were a bit too late for hiking and too early for skiing, but that only added to the magic of the trip. The village felt untouched and wonderfully local, with few visitors other than ourselves. Each morning, we loved observing locals going about their daily routines, stopping at the bakeries for fresh bread, picking their children up from school, and going about their day with smiles and warmth.

Campitello di Fassa has an old-world charm, with narrow cobblestone streets, charming Alpine homes, and mountain views that seem to stretch endlessly. One morning, we watched about 100 sheep running up the mountain in the crisp air!

The Dolomite Mountains are steeped in history and culture, with a mix of Italian and Austrian influences dating back centuries. The region was a focal point during World War I, with trenches and battlements dotting the landscapes. Today, the mountains stand as a serene haven, blending stunning natural beauty with centuries-old traditions.

The blend of fall colors, the light snow, and the rugged mountain peaks felt like stepping into a storybook!