In any discussion of the world's most beautiful mountain ranges, the Dolomites of northeastern Italy would certainly enjoy strong support. Composed of a type of carbonate rock termed "dolomite" (oddly enough), similar to limestone, the mountains are fantastically colored and beautifully formed, often very steep in appearance. The Dolomites are also a mecca for via ferrata climbing. Via ferrata, which translates as "iron way", are climbing routes that have been equipped with fixed aids such as wire cables, ladders, ... (more)