Skip to content
  • Essence GU
  • Beautycon
  • NaturallyCurly
  • Afropunk
  • Essence Studios
  • Soko Mrkt
  • Ese Funds
  • Refinery29
  • WeLoveUs.shop
  • 2026 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture
  • Celebrity
  • Fashion
  • Beauty
  • Lifestyle
  • Entrepreneurship
  • News
  • Shopping
  • Video
  • Events
  • Subscribe
Home • Travel

Black Travel Vibes: Explore Majestic Lakes And Mountains in Italy

ESSENCE's exclusive guide on how to see, taste and experience the hottest destinations in Black travel.
Black Travel Vibes: Explore Majestic Lakes And Mountains in Italy
Photo Credit: @my_traveling_beard
By Danielle Pointdujour · Updated December 6, 2020
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready…

The hit book and movie Eat, Pray, Love would have you believe that all there is to Italy is crowded espresso bars, lusty locals and endless plates of pasta and pizza (to go along with your ancient sites, of course), but that’s far from the case.

Go beyond the typical tourist spots and you’ll discover a side of Italy very few ever see on their adventures. A few hours north of Rome lies a peaceful paradise full of majestic mountains, calm blue lakes, amazing forests, and delicious dining that rivals any restaurant you’ll find in the big city. From the breathtaking views of the Dolomites to the endless blues of Lago Di Braies, Northern Italy is an escape every traveler should add to their list.

Recently Dr. Patrick Narcisse (@my_traveling_beard) took a break from his life-saving duties to get some rest and relaxation in Italy and his photos have us ready to pack up and go tonight. Take an inside peek at Dr. Narcisse’s Italian journey and pay close attention to our exclusive guide because we’re sure by the time you’re done you’ll be ready to chase mountains and lakes too.

01
Welcome to Northern Italy
Many travelers are used to seeing the brightly colored buildings of Cinque Terre, The Roman Colesseum or the stunning views of the Amalfi Coast when they search for photos of Italy, but there’s so much more. Northern Italy boasts a diverse landscape that includes towering mountain ranges, lush forests and icy blue lakes. One of the most popular sites in the region is the Dolomites, a mountain range that forms part of the Southern Limestone Alps. The area is great for travel year-round, but if you want to avoid the crowds, skip visiting July through September.
Black Travel Vibes: Explore Majestic Lakes And Mountains in Italy
Photo Credit: @my_traveling_beard
02
Lakeside Sleep
Lago di Braies, also known as Pragser Wildsee and Lake Prags, is one of the largest lakes in the Dolomites. Grab a room and the cozy Majestic Hotel and Spa so you can explore the lake area with ease.
Black Travel Vibes: Explore Majestic Lakes And Mountains in Italy
Photo Credit: @my_traveling_beard
03
Traditional Eats
Don’t think that because you’re in the mountains you won’t be able to find delicious, world-class Italian cuisine. Check out the wildly popular Rifugio Emilio Comici for dishes that will leave your mouth watering for more.
Black Travel Vibes: Explore Majestic Lakes And Mountains in Italy
Photo Credit: Rifugio Emilio Comici
04
Impressive Nature
The Dolomites are full of lakes to explore but ask any visitor and they’ll tell you that one of the most impressive (mostly for its bright blue color) is Lake Sorapis, and no trip to Northern Italy is complete without a visit to take in all its unmatched beauty.
Black Travel Vibes: Explore Majestic Lakes And Mountains in Italy
TOPICS:  Black Travel Moment of the Day coinage Italy travel travel guide