10 Winter Wonderland Photos From the Italian Dolomites

There's nothing quite like winter amongst dramatic mountain giants, except winter amongst dramatic mountain giants with authentic Italian pizza, too. The Dolomites region in South Tyrol, Italy turns into a postcard-perfect scene under a blanket of freshly fallen snow and these photos are proof.

The recent Red Bull Illume Photography Awards ceremony, where the global exhibit of finalist's work was unveiled, was held in the alpine village of Bruneck (also known as Brunico), proving to be an ideal location to celebrate some of the best in sports photography. While there, the winter season swept into full-swing with the arrival of the premiere snowstorm of the season.

From famous frozen lakes to winter sunsets above the clouds, this smattering of winter wonderland photos from the Dolomites might just inspire you to get out and enjoy the magic yourself.

Cradled by the impossibly gorgeous Dolomite mountains, Bruneck is an Italian town in South Tyrol with some of the best Austrian and German influences culinary wise. Yes, that means you can indulge in an authentic pizza and a soft pretzel all in the same hour. Its location, rich culture and culinary scene, coupled with gorgeous scenery and opportunities for outdoor pursuits, make Bruneck/Brunico an ideal winter holiday destination.

The view from the village Castello Brunico provides a breathtaking overlook of the town below, surrounding peaks and the beautifully elegant church spire. Visitors can walk up to the castle straight from the center of the old town, which used to act as a summer home for prince bishops (NBD) and now hosts the Messner Mountain Museum. It's worth the walk up just to admire these gorgeous views, but if you go during opening hours, you'll be treated to exhibits detailing the heritage of mountains through history, culture and daily life.

You never know when you'll run into a local...snowman. A picture-perfect scene in the village of Bruneck greets visitors making the stroll up to the local Castello Brunico; a quintessential winter wonderland. As if the mountain backdrop, fresh snowfall and storybook vibes aren't enough, the childlike joy when stumbling across a friendly snowman brings the winter experience full circle.

The LUMEN Museum of Mountain Photography might just snag the 'most epic location for a museum' award. Perched 2,275 meters (7,464 feet) high on the mountaintop edge of Kronplatz in South Tyrol, the museum is accessible via gondola...and what a ride to get there. This is a one-of-a-kind museum experience, exhibiting a fierce appreciation of the mountains. A variety of mediums are used in creative ways for each display as you walk through the floors of the museum; if you can tear yourself away from the event space with floor to ceiling window views, that is. Most recently, it was host to the exciting Red Bull Illume awards ceremony and stunning outdoor exhibit.

How to raise a mountaintop sunset up a few thousand levels? Add a cloud inversion. The museum exhibits aren't the only show on top of the Kronplatz mountain. As a ski resort, you not only have the opportunity to glide down the snow-filled dramatic Dolomites, but also take in the ridiculous scenery high above the valley below as well. A cloud inversion is a special treat, but add in a sunset and prepare to have your Italian socks knocked right off.

Winter sunsets may be earlier, but they also last longer, letting that sky-on-fire effect linger for us to enjoy. Grab a front-row seat on the edge of Kronplatz in South Tyrol, Italy where the expansive mountain landscape is seemingly endless above the trees. After perusing the engaging exhibits within the LUMEN mountaintop museum, you may be in for the grand finale before taking the gondola back into town.

A fresh blanket of snowfall on Lago di Braies creates a new perspective on this Instagram-famous alpine lake. Usually pictured with its electric blue waters as the main feature, the contrasting winter scene is equally as breathtaking. Visiting this time of year means the trail all the way around the lake may not be accessible, and you certainly can't take the well-known wooden boats out for a spin, but the crisp air, mystical fog and fluffy snow make for an idyllic experience regardless...and without a gazillion tourists, to boot. Lago di Braies can be reached via car about forty minutes outside of Bruneck.

Winter details mix on the edges of the dramatic Dolomite landscape, crafting magical vibes. The area surrounding Bruneck is perfect for numerous outdoor winter endeavors. Other than skiing at Kronplatz, visitors can cross country ski across alpine pastures, go ice-skating, toboggan, take a winter hike or casual walk, snowshoe and explore nearby villages. Warm up with traditional gerstesuppe (barley soup) afterward, you won't regret it.

Bruneck's Christmas Market is the perfect way to embrace the winter wonderland spirit in South Tyrol. Shop for local handicrafts and regional culinary goods to gift friends and family (or yourself!) while stopping at one of the cute wooden huts for an outdoor Glühwein (mulled wine) to warm up. Make sure to try a cone of warmed chestnuts for a traditional snack too. Strolling through the main street's market is just the festive inspiration needed. The market usually runs from the end of November until the beginning of January.