International Mountain Day
A call for awareness and respect for our mountain peaks
Every year, on 11 December, we celebrate International Mountain Day, a special occasion to reflect on the importance of these extraordinary and delicate ecosystems. This day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003 to raise awareness of the importance of mountains for life, sustainable development and mountain communities.
Mountains cover about 27% of the Earth's surface and are home to 15% of the world's population. But they are much more than that: they are treasure troves of biodiversity, freshwater reserves, places of culture, spirituality and adventure.
Among all the mountains in the world, the Dolomites occupy a special place: a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a symbol of beauty and resilience, a refuge for those seeking silence and authenticity. At Camping Sass Dlacia, surrounded by these wonders, International Mountain Day is a heartfelt moment that reminds us how precious our surroundings are.
Mountains offer us so much: pure water, clean air, wood, herbs, pastures and landscapes that nourish the soul. Yet they are among the most fragile environments on the planet. Climate change, unsustainable tourism, loss of biodiversity and the depopulation of mountain communities threaten this age-old balance. 11 December is therefore a call to awareness: to continue enjoying the beauty of the peaks, we must take care of them. With respect, attention and sustainable choices.
Living in the mountains with respect
International Mountain Day is also an opportunity to rethink our relationship with nature. Here are some concrete actions to honour the mountains every day:
- Walk lightly: follow the trails, avoid soil erosion and disturb flora and fauna as little as possible.
- Reduce your impact: choose reusable materials, reduce waste, use public transport or carpool.
- Support local communities: buy local products, participate in cultural initiatives and promote traditions.
- Learn and raise awareness: read, tell stories, share. Knowledge is the first step towards protection.
Those who live in the mountains know that they are not just a landscape, but also a living culture: languages, legends, ancient crafts, unique flavours. In the Ladin valleys, for example, the mountains are home, refuge and school of life. Talking about the mountains also means giving a voice to those who live there, protecting not only the environment but also the people who have preserved its history for centuries.
At Camping Sass Dlacia, nestled in the woods of Alta Badia, we feel a strong connection to the mountains. Every activity, every trail, every typical dish in our restaurant tells the story of this love. We will always be grateful for what the mountains give us every day.
