A couple of weeks ago six long walkers enjoyed a week away with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays ,snowshoeing in the Dolomites.

It was surprisingly easy for those of us who had never done it before to adapt to snowshoeing.That said, it was pretty strenuous going at times.

Based in the hamlet of St Zyprian we enjoyed spectacular views from the hotel of the Rosengarten limestone peaks.

[caption id="attachment_1728" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Negotiating The Labyrinth[/caption]

A relatively gentle 1st day was followed by a walk through The Labyrinth,a boulder field of thousands of snow covered rocks.Those at the front were amazed that our local guide managed to navigate his way through.Several days involved journeys by bus and skilifts to get above the snowline to enjoy spectacular scenery,and some of the best walking any of us have experienced.

[caption id="attachment_1731" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Last day ,and down to a mountain hut for a hot meal followed by a sledge ride back down to the cable car.[/caption]

The final day culminated in sledging 3 kms with a descent of 400 meters:exhilarating !