At a Glance
Relocate to a fairyland for a span of 6 days to immerse into the eye-pleasing artistry of nature at Italy’s Dolomites. Traverse gigantic rugged peaks, strokes of abundant wildflowers on the grassy canvas, and blankets of conical pines that juxtapose with bygone villages.
Your adventure begins in Bolzano, the gateway into the Dolomites. Spend your days embarking on scenic gondola rides to hike high alpine attitude for views that will leave you spell bounded. Take in the breathtaking views of little villages flanked by dense pines and steep peaks as you hike. A unique blend of nature and small but sweet settlement abound below you as you hike the trail at the Catinaccio mountains. Ramble around the abundant rose, delphinium, foxglove, and berry gardens and keep your eyes on the imposing ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All luggage, hotel and shuttle transfer
- 5 nights’ accommodation in luxury hotels on a twin share basis
- All meals as specified
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 guest to leader ratio on average
- Hiking and sightseeing as stated in the itinerary
- Park and other entry fees
- Comprehensive travel planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Itinerary
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TWO HIKING OPTIONS: Meet your leaders at 11 a.m. in front of the main entrance of the Bolzano-Bozen train station in Bolzano. Arrive dressed in your hiking clothes and bring your luggage and a daypack with your rain gear and anything else you may want for today's hike (your luggage will be transported to our first night's accommodation). After we assemble in Bolzano, board a shuttle to Welschofen and initiate our expenditure taking a gondola ride that offers picturesque scenery highlighting lofty pine forests as we are lifted up to the Catinaccio mountain crew in the Dolomites. The French geologist Déodat de Dolomieu, who was the first to define the kind of carbonate rock that is prevalent in these mountains, is the source of the name "Dolomites." At an high altitude we get to take in the view of impressive rock formations on the way to a delicious afternoon meal at a rifugio. These family-run alpine huts are spread across the Dolomites, giving hikers refreshments by providing hearty meals, and even a cozy bed for the night’s stay. |
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Explore a trail that passes through meadows and skirts the Catinaccio mountains while providing breathtaking panoramic views of Bolzano bustling with roofed buildings below. We arrive at the 5 star Romantik Hotel Turm in the late afternoon, where owner and celebrated chef Stefan Pramstrahler greets us. The moment you admire the walls lined with a wide array of oil paintings, watercolors and lithographs - by the likes of Giorgio de Chirico, Otto Dix and Paul Klee, you will be acquainted with the chef’s love for artistic talents. As you relish the high-class luxuries of your lodge like sauna and swimming pool, you will get a glimpse of soothing artistic themes. Settle in before assembling for a welcoming event and a sumptuous dinner of regional favorites. |
Romantik Hotel Turm (5*)
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
FIVE HIKING OPTIONS: Our day is packed with hiking the spectacular marvels of Dolomites situated just outside the hotel’s door. Get a glimpse of what miracles await us in the upcoming days as we explore the breathtaking alpine setting while the Schlern massif, an enduring representation of South Tyrol, towers overhead. The gigantic rugged grey towers are an otherworldly attraction bound to absolutely blow your mind with its massive elevations. Spectate every wonder that unfolds as you trail the Dolomites - majestic peaks, photogenic lakes, and breathtaking valleys! Ascend untarnished paths, wander through abundant rose, delphinium, foxglove, and berry gardens, and then pause for lunch at the welcoming Tuffalm Hut. After lunch, take a trek to the tranquil Völser Weiher, a little fir-tree-lined spring-fed lake where you may relax with a coffee or gelato on the shore. The peaceful waters allure you to dip your toes into its coldness or simply become one with the locals by diving in. Make sure to stop on your tracks and absorb the enchanting vistas of pristine green fields and expansive Eisack River Valley below. The valley will give you an impression of a fairy tell scene as you look at its greenery surrounding the pristine river water. |
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Arrive at the hotel to and delve into a refreshing spa treatment (at own expense). Take a steam bath with flower aromas, relax in the pine sauna, or enjoy a massage with grapeseed oil. Or simply dip in the indoor pool to give yourself a kick before you head towards a wine tasting event in the evening at Prosels Castle, a noteworthy fortress dating as back as 1200s. Hop in the shuttle to witness an authentic Tyrolean treat by our local friend, Martha, and her husband. As you arrive, the couple greets you into their residence to savor an inimitable dinner. The Slow Food movement has recognized Martha, and she welcomes us inside her home and kitchen for an unforgettable gourmet experience. |
Romantik Hotel Turm (5*)Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: Leaving behind Völs Am Schlern, commence in a quick shuttle followed by a gondola ride to Compatsch, a nature’s bounty for peace seekers and hikers alike, giving them several hiking opportunities to make the most of their time. Compatsch, a recreational base of the Schlern Rosengarten Natural Park is flanked by mesmeric massifs and expansive blankets of chromatic wildflowers. Be captivated by beauteous meadows and pine forests dressing up the Seiser Alm, one of Europe's largest alpine plateaus. With around 790 plant species blooming in the region, the stunning scenes are bound to fire you with enthusiasm. Hold the nerves to ascend the challenging yet rewarding twin peaks of Langkofel and Plattkofel, where you are gifted with the enthralling vistas of the heavenly Schlern range. A rifugio on a high peak invites us for a palatable lunch before we proceed to draw further thrill from the Gardena Valley. The dizzying steep rocks of Sasso Lungo and the majestic Sella Mountain Massif are the two prodigies of Gardena Valley which welcomes its spectators to also stroll around the three idyllic villages Ortisei, Selva and Santa Cristina nestling amid the greenery and mountains. If you prefer a less hectic route, stay on the lower plateau for more picturesque paths through alpine meadows that descend to Monte Pana, where a shuttle is waiting to take you to the Alpenroyal Grand Hotel, our five-star lodging for the night. Take the time to plan out how you want to spend the remainder of the afternoon as you settle into your opulent suite. After a few days of hiking, if you're still hungry for more, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the mountain group. Opt to shop at Selva Gardena, a shopper’s magnet located at the heart of the valley or laze at the hotel’s lavish spa. The hotel's fine dining restaurant is open to you tonight for a leisurely meal. |
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You'll stay in 5-star Alpenroyal Hotel, part of The Leading Hotels of the World. Nestled in Selva di Val Gardena, savour the serenity at the wellness area with 3 pools, an exclusive spa and a gourmet restaurant. Built in the shape of a horseshoe, unwind at the balcony overlooking the breathtaking mountain landscape of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. |
Alpenroyal Grand Hotel (5*)Breakfast, Lunch |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: Begin the day with a morning shuttle taking us to a lift which will elevate us high upon the gorgeous Gardena Pass, one of the four mountain passes that wreathes the exciting Sella massif, where a World Heritage Site of lunar-like Puez-Odle park stuns us. Impressive views of the Gran Cir Peak, Geisler Alm alpine pasture hut, and the Odle/Geisler Peaks from Seceda are the highlighting gems of the park. Our path crosses a slope that is bordered by a rocky ridge and faces the Sella mountain's imposing north face. While strolling through fields of wildflowers, pine forests, and adorable old-fashioned baita (huts), keep an ear out for the distinctive marmot whistle. Keep your eyes peeled for the view of alpine meadows dotted with cowslips, flowers, marsh marigolds, and gentian which juxtapose with the breathtakingly craggy mountains. |
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Feel glad by the sight of Badia Valley emerging in the distance, regarded as the essence of Dolomites territory and its natives, the Ladin people. Relish a tasty meal served inside a rifugio and delve into the Ladin traditions and culture at the village of Corvara and other small settlements where you continue to hike. Come across six tiny civilizations spread over 16 km of the valley’s region flanked by the pines swarming on the slopes of the nearby hills which in turn are surrounded by huge rugged mountains in the distance. After lunch, either continue walking along valley trails to picturesque San Cassiano, or take the gondola down to small Colfosco and board the shuttle to the hotel. Arrive at the doorstep of your spa retreat at Wellness Hotel Fanes. Relax in one of two swimming pools, unwind in the alpine sauna or simply bask in the panoramic views from its relaxation room. This evening, delight your taste buds by dining at the lodge or take an adventure into San Cassiano’s town boasting of numerous restaurants |
Wellness Hotel Fanes (5*)Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: A morning shuttle will lead us to Bai des Dones where we chairlift to initiate our trail. Meet the local guide, in the company of whom you grasp the stirring impact the World War 1 had on this stunning destination. Our tour to this magnificent outdoor museum exhibits trenches, bunkers, and tunnels from World War I, when the Dolomites served as the boundary between Italy and Austria. Feel free to hike if you crave to take in more spectacles of Dolomites or directly head to Rifugio Averau to satiate the gastronaut in you with a hearty meal. If a challenging climb lays an upper hand over resting your legs, trek the Rifugio Nuvolau for breathing in more panoramic miracles. The hut standing on the top of Rifugio Nuvolau is the earliest refuge in the Dolomites. The apex makes you feel like you are on the top of the world with the reverential vistas from a height of 2575 metres. |
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Continue moving after lunch in the direction of the Falzarego and Valparola traversing more breathtaking Dolomite views, wildflowers, and potential marmot sightings. Or head back to the lift's top to take a trip back to the hotel, where you may wander on the streets of San Cassiano or relish in a spa treatment (at own expense) or pool at your lodge. Tonight, indulge in a celebratory dining affair at the lodge’s exquisite restaurant featuring an innovating menu of local delights as you raise a toast to your incredible adventure. |
Wellness Hotel Fanes (5*)Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
TWO HIKING OPTIONS: For stunning views of San Cassiano and the imposing Fanes Mountains, ascend to the Pralongià plateau. If the weather favors, we also get to observe the post-card scenes of the distant Sella, Puez Odle and Marmolada mountain groups. The climb is strenuous but looking at these renowned jewels from the top is like being on the seventh heaven. There is always an alternate option of taking a lift to this spot, however, coming in close proximity to the wonders while on hike is a enlivening experience in itself. Sip cappuccino for one last time before stepping into a gondola to return to San Cassiano. Regroup for a final gathering before we wave goodbye to the indescribable beauty of the Dolomites and later board a private coach to arrive in Venice, where your inspiring journey ends. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
NoneBreakfast, LunchDates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure point is Bolzano
- The finish point is Venice
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Bolzano. The closest major airport is Bolzano Airport and is 8 km from the center of Bolzano.
Weather in the Dolomites, while generally sunny and mild in the summer, can quickly change. A typical day begins with clear blue skies, but by late afternoon, showers, cold temperatures or heavy mist can occur. The mountain passes especially can be windy and cold. Make sure to come prepared with waterproof breathable rain gear as well as warm layers for cooler mornings.
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 2-5.
Level 1, 2-5 hours, 3-8km (2-5 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 244m (800 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 6-11km (4-7 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 396m (1300 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 8-14km (5-9 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 610m (2000 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 10-18km (6-11 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 914m (3000 ft)
Level 5, 5-7 hours, 11-21+ km (7-13+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1219m (4000+ ft)
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
