Santa Maddalena is covered in snow, which only enhances its picturesque charm that is drawing a growing number of visitors -- something locals describe as a mixed blessing. The village, home to some 500 people, is nestled in the heart of Italy's Dolomites, with the jagged mountain backdrop highlighting the diminutive church tower.
Named the most beautiful village in South Tyrol by Geo magazine, Santa Maddalena is located within the UNESCO-listed Puez-Geisler Nature Park between Villnöss and Val Gardena. Nonetheless, it is increasingly overrun with tourists, from nearby European countries to as far away as Beijing.
