2025 VillnoB Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

The beauty of the Dolomites lies in the whispers between mountains and lakes, and the awe of every step taken by hikers. Unlike the crowded and expensive Swiss Alps, the Dolomites harbor the purest soul of the Alps. Pack your bags and embark on a rejuvenating journey into the wilderness! ✅ Best Seasons: 🔸 June to October: Pleasant summer weather (15-28°C), ideal for hiking 🔸 Autumn (September to October): Vibrant foliage, mountain views like oil paintings, perfect for photography 🔸 December to April: Ski season with 1,200 km of slopes and professional facilities at Winter Olympics standards 🚇 Transportation: 🔸 From Milan: Take a train to Bolzano, then transfer to Bus 350 to Ortisei, the starting point for hiking. Attractions are within a 10-30 minute drive. 🔸 From Venice: Join a one-day tour (7 hours round trip), including a guide and lunch. 🏨 Accommodation: 🔸 Recommended stay in Ortisei town for its high value and convenient transportation. 🔸 Mountain huts (Rifugio): Experience "star-rated lodges" in the mountains. Italian valley huts offer Italian cuisine, while German-speaking areas resemble Bavarian guesthouses. Mixed dorms but with a unique atmosphere. 🏞️ Must-Visit Attractions: 1⃣️ Val di Funes Postcard-perfect views of Santa Maddalena Church and Geisler Peaks, where the mountains turn pink and gold at sunrise and sunset—truly dreamy! Visit St. John Church (the onion-domed church), recognized by National Geographic as "the loneliest church." 2⃣️ Tre Cime di Lavaredo A filming location for "Star Wars," featuring a 12 km hiking loop. At the endpoint, Refugio Locatelli, enjoy a 360° panoramic view of the three giant peaks—absolutely breathtaking. 3⃣️ Alpe di Siusi Europe's largest alpine meadow. Take a cable car to overlook herds of cattle and sheep. In autumn, golden meadows paired with white dolomite peaks resemble scenes from "Heidi." 4⃣️ Lago di Braies Known as "The Pearl of the Dolomites," the lake boasts emerald-green waters. Rent a wooden boat for a paddle or hike around the lake—guaranteed stunning photos. 5⃣️ Lago di Carezza Dubbed "Rainbow Lake" for its light-reflecting colors. In late autumn, the lake mirrors snow-capped mountains, creating a serene, picturesque view. 🥾 Classic Hiking Routes: 🔸 Seceda: A 14 km ridge trail featuring knife-edged peaks and silver dolomite rocks, bathed in golden light at sunset. 🔸 Cinque Torri: A 12 km loop with WWI historical sites and via ferrata climbing paths. The summit offers views of Mount Lafazuoi. 🔸 New Route Camma Retica: Opening in 2024, a 7-day trek through 10 villages, spanning 170 km—perfect for deep exploration. 📸 Photography Tips: Golden Hours: One hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset, when the peaks display "Alpenglow" (pink → purple → magenta). Recommended Spots: - Next to the fence at Val di Funes farm for shots of the church and peaks - At Rifugio Locatelli for panoramic views of Tre Cime - Near Sporthotel Sonne in Alpe di Siusi for meadow and snow-capped mountain views

#Travel to save the world Villa Messner in Italy is located in the beautiful nature of the Funes Valley, surrounded by mountains and green fields. The atmosphere is peaceful and suitable for those who want to truly relax. The comfortable rooms are decorated in a warm style with mountain views from the balcony or window. There is also an outdoor pool and sauna that help guests relax, making them feel truly close to nature and fully recharged.

I spent 8 days in the Dolomites and would like to share my experiences. 💙The Dolomites are a mountain range in northern Italy that is part of the Alps. It’s a budget-friendly destination to enjoy the Alps, offering a cheaper alternative to Switzerland. ♥️Based on my experience, the Dolomites can be divided into eastern and western regions. 💛Western Dolomites Most travelers use Ortisei as their base, but due to high accommodation costs, I stayed in Bolzano instead. Before my trip, I planned to visit Alpe di Siusi, Seceda, Santa Maddalena, Soprabolzano, and Lake Carezza. However, I ended up visiting Alpe di Siusi, Seceda, and Soprabolzano. ♥️Eastern Dolomites The main base city is Cortina d’Ampezzo, but I chose Dobbiaco due to its more affordable accommodation. My planned destinations included Cinque Torri, Tre Cime, Lake Misurina, Lake Braies (Lago di Braies), Lake Dobbiaco, and cycling across the Austrian border. Among these, I visited Tre Cime, Lake Braies, and cycled to Austria. 💕Accommodation Accommodation in the Dolomites is expensive, so I opted for youth hostels. Reservations can be made via email through their official websites. 💙Transportation Passes South Tyrol Pass This transportation card is available for 1, 3, or 7 days and allows unlimited use of regional buses and trains within the South Tyrol area (some exceptions apply, such as buses 439, 440, 442, and 444). Choose the pass that best fits your itinerary for a cost-effective trip. Super Summer Pass This pass provides unlimited access to cable cars and lifts in the Dolomites for a specified number of days. Use it according to your schedule. Enjoy the Dolomites, a budget-friendly destination to experience the Alps! 😉

Villa Messner is located in the beautiful valleys of Italy, offering a serene and private accommodation experience. The rooms are stylishly decorated, blending modernity with the surrounding nature. The tranquil atmosphere is perfect for relaxation and recharging. Guests can enjoy delicious breakfast and attentive staff service. Additionally, the scenic views are easily accessible for a leisurely stroll, making it an ideal retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. If you have plans to visit Dolomite, consider staying here!

#europetrip #Funes #Italy #italy_views Funes Santa Maddalena is a picture-perfect gem nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, and our journey to reach it by public transport was truly an adventure. Though it took great effort with multiple connections and careful planning, the breathtaking view made it all worthwhile. The iconic Church of Santa Maddalena stood gracefully against the backdrop of the dramatic Odle Peaks, creating a scene straight out of a postcard. The rolling green meadows, dotted with quaint farmhouses, added to the serene charm of the valley. Standing there, surrounded by such natural beauty, we felt all the effort melt away, leaving only awe and gratitude for this unforgettable experience.

Dolomites Journey: Day 3 Hiking in the Funes Valley Waking up early and opening the window, I was surprised to find a sea of clouds, so I immediately went out to take some pictures. There was no one on the road, few cars, and the air was super good, making me feel so relaxed here. After breakfast, we set out to hike the Funes Valley, where the typical European natural scenery unfolds: distant mountains and dense forests reaching into the sky, tender green meadows stretching as far as the eye can see, with wooden huts built like blocks in the center of the meadows, and the most eye-catching spot on the slope is a church, the abode of the soul. Although we came in the morning and didn't see the light of the Alps under the sunset, the scenery with the mist swirling around was also very beautiful, The fourth picture is the most famous photo spot in the town, but unfortunately, there was fog, and it was early in the morning, so the photo was not very ideal tips: Funes Valley is a valley under the highest peak of the Dolomites, the Geisler Peak, located in the Dolomite region of Italy. Funes Valley is world-renowned because of Geisler Peak. The valley is home to attractions such as the ancient town of Santa Maddalena, the Church of Santa Maddalena, the Church of St. John, and the Puez-Geisler National Park. Reaching Funes Valley is not an easy task, although it is well-known, because public transportation is not very developed, self-driving is the most convenient way to get there.

#7月好去处2025 Located in Funes, Italy, Magdalenablick is a self-catering apartment with a lounge area and outdoor seating area to enjoy the mountain scenery. Magdalenablick is located 100 metres from the Puez Odle Nature Reserve and there is a bus 330 nearby. After check-in, a transportation card (Dolomiti Museumobil Card) is provided, which is quite convenient. In the summer evening, you can take a walk nearby to take pictures and watch the sunset. In addition to providing satellite TV and a private bathroom, the homestay is clean and comfortable, with smooth wifi and full equipment; the kitchen has simple kitchenware, a microwave and a dishwasher. There is a washing machine in the bathroom, and a small amount of laundry detergent is provided, which is really convenient for backpackers.

This valley is located in the Dolomites Mountains in northern Italy. Trentino-Ato Adige has a fairytale-like scenery, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. There is a beautiful little church with friendly villagers. Near the church there are two beautiful photo spots: One is next to the fence by the field, and the other is just a 1-minute walk along the road. There is free parking for about 12 cars. When you leave the village, you will see the view of the church hidden in the valley with the large mountains as a backdrop. It is very beautiful. The best photos of Santa Maddalena are taken from the hills on the northwest side of the mountain.

⛰️ Why Funes? While other Alpine ranges charm the world with gentle curves, the Dolomites' sawtooth peaks slash the horizon with razor-sharp limestone. Funes Valley is like a mythical scene—the onion-domed St. Johann Chapel stands alone in the meadow, backed by the fang-like Geisler Group. In autumn, the valley blazes with golden larches; in winter, it transforms into a real-life "Frozen" filming location. 📸 Three Legendary Photo Moments 1️⃣ Dawn Magic: Camp at St. Johann Chapel at 6 AM to watch morning mist drift between the Odle peaks and the chapel's reflection 2️⃣ Autumn Spectacle: Mid-October, take the cable car to Alpe di Siusi to see the jagged mountains wrapped in a golden-red larch "blanket" 3️⃣ Starlit Arch: Summer nights at Santa Maddalena capture the Milky Way arching over the lonely chapel 🚞 Transport Hacks ▫️ Ortisei Cable Network: 8 interconnected routes; ride the Seceda cable car for knife-edge mountain views ▫️ Secret Bus: Take Line 171 (sit right side) for direct valley access and Geisler Group photo ops 🍂 Seasonal Highlights Sep-Oct: Learn smoked cheese-making from herders (a living fossil craft only practiced in summer alpine pastures) Dec-Mar: Horse-drawn sleigh rides across frozen Lago di Antorno 💡 Insider Tips ✅ Chapel reflections shoot best at roadside puddles—use wide-angle + low angle ✅ Dolomiti Superski Pass grants unlimited cable car access ✅ Beware "fake-light": Backlit peaks after noon mean a 2-hour post-sunrise golden window

#aprilblooms Funes Valley, also known as Val di Funes, is a picturesque valley located in the Dolomites region of northern Italy. It is renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, charming villages, and the iconic church of St. Magdalena with the backdrop of the Odle mountain range. The valley offers a tranquil escape with opportunities for hiking, photography, and experiencing traditional South Tyrolean culture. Tips: - The best time to visit Funes Valley is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. - Wear comfortable hiking shoes as the area is ideal for walking and exploring. - Don't miss the chance to visit the St. Magdalena Church for its breathtaking views and photo opportunities. Enjoy your trip!

💓1. Dolomites Overview The Dolomites, located in northeastern Italy and part of the Alps, are renowned for their unique Dolomite peaks and magnificent natural scenery. This area is suitable for travel year-round. Spring offers lush vegetation, summer is a hiking paradise, autumn boasts vibrant colors, and winter transforms the region into a world-class ski resort. In 2009, the Dolomites were listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, becoming a treasure trove of both natural and cultural significance. 💓2. Recommended Must-See Attractions 💓Seceda: An iconic landmark in the Dolomites, Seceda features blade-like peaks that pierce the sky. Take a cable car to the summit for breathtaking views of the valley and colorful villages below. 💓Val di Funes: Known as the "most beautiful valley in the Alps," Val di Funes is a paradise for photographers, with its rolling green hills, babbling brooks, and the charming Church of St. Magdalena. 💓Lago di Braies: This stunning lake, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and surrounding snow-capped mountains, offers opportunities for boating and hiking, immersing you in a fairytale-like tranquility. 💓Tre Cime di Lavaredo: These three towering rock obelisks are a symbol of the Dolomites. Hiking trails encircle the peaks, offering spectacular views of glaciers and canyons. 💓Alpe di Siusi: Europe's largest high-altitude alpine meadow, Alpe di Siusi is covered in lush green grass in summer and pristine white snow in winter, making it an ideal location for hiking and skiing. 💓3. Food Recommendations 💓Asiago DOP Cheese: A traditional cheese from the Dolomites region, Asiago DOP has a rich flavor and pairs well with wine. 💓Formaggio di Malga (Mountain Cheese): Made with fresh milk from high-altitude pastures, this cheese has a unique flavor and can be purchased directly from local farms. 💓Honey: Dolomites honey is known for its purity and rich flavor, making it a local specialty. 💓Risotto: Made with fresh local ingredients, risotto is a hearty dish that provides the perfect energy boost after a hike. 💓4. Recommended Nearby Attractions 💓Cortina d'Ampezzo: Known as the "Queen of the Dolomites," Cortina d'Ampezzo is a popular destination for skiing in winter and hiking in summer. It will also host the 2026 Winter Olympics. 💓Lago di Carezza: The waters of this lake reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a rainbow-like effect, earning it the nickname "Fairyland." 💓Ortisei: A central town in the Dolomites with architecture similar to that of Switzerland, Ortisei is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding attractions. 💓5. Travel Tips 💓Best Time to Travel: Summer (June–September) is ideal for hiking and outdoor activities, while winter (December–March) is the best season for skiing. 💓Transportation Guide: Take a train or bus from Milan or Venice to Bolzano, then transfer to local transportation to reach the Dolomites. Driving is more convenient and offers scenic views along the way. 💓Precautions: Mountain weather is unpredictable, so bring rain gear and warm clothing. Be mindful of safety while hiking and choose trails that suit your fitness level. The Dolomites are not only a place of stunning natural beauty but also a travel destination rich in culture. Whether you're seeking panoramic views or savoring delicious cuisine, the Dolomites offer an unforgettable travel experience. Start planning your Dolomites adventure today!

If you’re looking for the perfect accommodation in Val Di Funes, Villa Messner is highly recommended. This charming property offers spacious rooms at an unbeatable price, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking comfort, quality, and a homely atmosphere. The entire place has been newly renovated, blending modern comforts with historical charm. Every corner of the villa is thoughtfully designed with elegant decor, showcasing a mix of history and local culture. The rooms are exceptionally clean, well-furnished, and beautifully decorated, offering a sense of warmth and coziness. No matter which room you stay in, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, as the villa is strategically located on a higher hill. One of the standout features is the fully equipped kitchen, complete with a dishwasher, making it ideal for those who prefer to cook their own meals. Additionally, the villa offers free laundry and dryer facilities, which is a huge convenience for long-term travelers. The hosts are incredibly welcoming and attentive, ensuring that guests feel at home. They are always available to provide assistance and share insights about the local area. During my stay, I had the opportunity to chat with them about the history of the house and the region’s culture for almost two hours, which was truly fascinating. While the villa offers breakfast starting at 8 AM, we opted not to have it as we needed to eat earlier. However, for those who don’t have an early schedule, the breakfast is said to be delicious and well-prepared. The only thing to take note of is that if you are arriving by public transportation, you will need to stop at the Paese bus stop. From there, the walk to Villa Messner is slightly steep, so be prepared if you have heavy luggage. Overall, Villa Messner is one of the best accommodations I’ve stayed in during my travels. The combination of stunning views, outstanding hospitality, high-class cleanliness, and home-like comfort makes it a top choice for anyone visiting Val Di Funes. I would highly recommend it and would definitely return on my next trip! #favouriteitinerary

Val di Funes is one of the most picturesque valleys in the Dolomites, known for its stunning alpine meadows, charming villages, and iconic church views. Here’s how to spend a perfect day exploring this breathtaking area. Morning: Classic Viewpoints & Village Stroll • Arrive early to enjoy the valley in its most peaceful state, especially for photography. • Santa Maddalena Church – One of the most iconic postcard views of the Dolomites. Park nearby and take a short walk to capture the famous backdrop of the Odle mountains. • San Giovanni Church in Ranui – Another must-see, this small chapel stands beautifully in the middle of a green meadow with dramatic peaks behind it. You can admire it from a distance or pay a small fee to visit closer. • Stroll through Santa Maddalena village – A charming alpine village with wooden houses, small cafés, and traditional Tyrolean vibes. Afternoon: Scenic Hike & Alpine Lunch • Hike to Geisler Alm (Adolf Munkel Trail) – One of the best hikes in Val di Funes. The trail is moderate and takes about 3-4 hours round trip, leading to stunning panoramic views of the Odle peaks. • Lunch at Geisler Alm – Enjoy traditional South Tyrolean food like speck, dumplings, and apple strudel while surrounded by incredible scenery. Evening: Sunset & Relaxation • Sunset at a viewpoint – If you have time, head back to either Santa Maddalena Church or San Giovanni Church for golden hour photography. • Dinner at a traditional alpine restaurant – End your day with a cozy meal in the valley or nearby towns like Brixen before heading back. Val di Funes is a dreamlike destination, perfect for nature lovers and photographers. Even with just one day, you’ll experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Dolomites! We stayed at this beautiful valley for 4 days, stay tune for the next accommodation review! #favouriteitinerary

#mountainhike The Funes Valley, also known as the Val d'Funes in Italian, is a stunningly beautiful area in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region of Italy. Nestled between the Dolomites and the Alps, the valley offers breathtaking scenery and a charming, traditional atmosphere. As you enter the valley, you'll be greeted by the sight of lush meadows, towering mountains, and quaint villages. The village of Funes itself is a highlight, with its colorful houses and cobblestone streets. It's a great place to stop for a coffee or a meal, and to soak up the local culture. One of the must-see attractions in the Funes Valley is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, which sits perched on a hill above the village. The church's distinctive onion domes and colorful facade make it a standout feature of the valley's landscape. Hiking is a popular activity in the Funes Valley, with numerous trails winding through the mountains and meadows. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, you'll find plenty of options to suit your taste. Don't miss out on a visit to the Val di Funes Cheese Dairy, where you can learn about the traditional methods used to make the valley's famous cheese. Sampling some of the local delicacies is a must for foodies. Overall, the Funes Valley is a hidden gem in Italy's northern mountains. With its stunning scenery, charming villages, and rich culture, it's a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous hike.

#europetrip The Funes Valley is full of delightful and unbelievable landscapes. It is located in the heart of the Dolomites, a mountain range in the northern Italian Alps. Being there, you must admire the scenic surroundings: the mountains, the fantastic farms, the churches, and the green pastures. It is amazing and worth photographed. The Funes Valley is an unmissable place to visit, especially for those who love nature and outdoor adventures. #italy #dolomites #myhiddengems

The winter beauty of the Dolomites moved me to tears 😢😢. With some cable cars closed, how can we still enjoy it? Here's a guide for everyone. Come and have a romantic winter 💃. Don't miss it when you come to Italy~ - ✅ Val di Funes A valley beneath the highest peak of the Dolomites, Geisler Peak, known as the 'Pearl of South Tyrol'. ✨ - ✅ Chiesa di Santa Maddalena Located in Val di Funes, this typical late Gothic church stands quietly on the mountain and is the most magnificent place in the small town of Santa Maddalena. 👑 - ✅ Chiesa di San Giovanni Another attraction in Val di Funes, but farther from the town of Santa Maddalena. Surrounded by mountains, it is also known as the 'Lonely Church'. 🙌 - ✅ Lago di Braies One of the most beautiful lakes in Italy, located at an altitude of 1500 meters. It is a natural lake with emerald green, crystal-clear water. There is a wooden boathouse on the lake where you can rent a canoe to explore. 🚣‍♂️ - ✅ L-Tre Cime di Lavaredo This mountain has a unique shape, like fingers reaching for the sky, making it a cover feature for many travel magazines. 📰 - ✅ Seceda A must-visit peak in the Dolomites, with an altitude of 2500 meters. You can take a cable car to the top. The cable car center is in the town of Ortisei, and the ride is divided into two stages. You can choose to hike or not. 🚠 -

Just feel like a paradise here @ “Val di funes” Italy It’s absolutely stunning and breathtaking with Autumn leaves and a little bit snow on the mountain 🏔️ It’s 10 times more beautiful in your eyes side I fell in love with this, it was absolutely amazing and it’s my first favorite tourist attraction in the world ❤️❤️❤️ If you guys love the beautiful nature and landscape, this place you must visit and check it out

Discover panoramic vistas,rocky trails and a relaxed corner of Italy 🇮🇹- Val di Funes. Famous photo spot of the Val đi Funes. The huge of mountain is behind the church and ME is always in front of YOU❤️. The romantic of Church ST. Magdalena always protecting by the mountain. Church belongs to the village Val di Funes. Just walk up about 15 minutes from San Giovanni Church, you will get a very beautiful spot.#church #valdifunes #dolomites #italy

#solotrip Immersing myself in Parco Naturale Puez Odle's unspoiled beauty was a transcendent experience. The Dolomites' towering peaks, emerald valleys, and turquoise streams created an ever-changing tapestry. With over 50 km of trails, I discovered hidden waterfalls, alpine lakes, and vibrant wildflowers. The park's unique geology, shaped by ancient glaciers, left me awestruck. The park's breathtaking vistas, varied trails, and untouched flora and fauna make it a must-visit destination. Visit during wildflower season (June-July) for an unforgettable experience. Exploring Val di Funes' stunning scenery and witnessing sunrise/sunset from Gardena Pass are absolute highlights. A perfect haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility and awe-inspiring scenery.

Santa Maddalena Village Landmark Dolomites The view around Santa Maddalena will show a small village in the valley, part of the Dolomites mountain range and is the number 1 most popular corner of the mountain range. If anyone looks for information about Dolomites, this picture will definitely appear. So, if anyone comes to Northern Italy, don't miss taking pictures at this corner.... For a road trip in Northern Italy, the best way is to drive yourself because you will see the beautiful nature in a panoramic view, both mountains, trees, streams and towns. Guaranteed to be unforgettable beauty. The driving route is convenient and easy to drive. There is nothing complicated. And don't forget to check in at Santa Maddalena. Guaranteed to be an impressive place. #Dolomites #italy #travel #photo #bloggertravel #withmyshutter #TravelEurope

Here is a Dolomites travel guide~ - 🧭Tour Route: Start from Parkplatz, follow the valley towards Chiesa di Santa Maddalena church, where you can enjoy the stunning view of the church with the backdrop of the jagged mountains. Finally, head to the Viewpoint Of St. John Church to capture the iconic solitary church. - 📷Popular Photo Spots: Panoramadi Santa Magdalena: This is a perfect spot for photography. Church of St. John: Viewpoint Of St. John Church, known as the solitary church. Self-driving Parking Spots: P1: Carpark Putzen S.Maddalena, the largest parking lot in the town, located by the main road, convenient for visiting various attractions. P2: Carpark Berger Platz, a free parking lot, not by the main road but still close to major attractions. P3: Carpark S.Maddalena (busturningbay), the closest small parking lot to the best photo spot of the Church of St. John, convenient for visitors. P4: Carpark Ranui, a larger parking lot at the end of the main road, set up for hikers, with a daily fee of €4. - 🚩Tips: 1. The Dolomites region is located in northeastern Italy, featuring magnificent mountains and charming towns. Be sure to plan a detailed route before driving, especially considering the mountain road conditions and potential weather changes. 2. The Church of St. John is situated in a valley, so it's recommended to visit on a sunny day to better appreciate the surrounding scenery. 3. Chiesa di Santa Maddalena is a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture. The church's opening hours may vary by season and holidays, so check in advance and plan your visit accordingly. 4. Maintain silence when visiting the interior of the church. For Dolomites travel, contact Xiaoman~ Xiaoman will customize your route for you😆

Fallerhof is located in Villenos. It is an apartment-style accommodation. The wooden house is on the hill. It serves an Italian breakfast. The accommodation building is located below the church. We can walk along the viewpoint, but we will pass a cow farm and smell the natural smell of animal feces. We can sit and watch the sunset on the hill in front of the church in the evening. In the morning, the air is good and the wind is cool.

The Dolomites are located on the edge of the border between the Veneto region and the Trentino-Alto Adige region in northeastern Italy. The core protected area is 1359.11km%. The Dolomites Heritage Site is part of the Northern Italian Alps. There are as many as 18 peaks above 3000m. The sequence heritage site consisting of 9 regions shows outstanding mountain view diversity. There are landmark landscape types in international geomorphological studies such as peak clusters, peak needles and rock walls, including glacial landforms and karst landform systems. Frequent landslides, floods and avalanches present a distinctive dynamic geological process