Italy’s Dolomites Luxury Walk 6D5N, Fully Guided

TWO HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 3.2km (2 miles), 2 to 3 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 214m (700ft)
Level 2, Approx. 8.04km (5 miles), 2 to 3 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 366m (1200ft)

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.

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.

FIVE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 3.2km (2 miles), 2 to 3 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 92m (300ft)
Level 2, Approx. 6.4km (4 miles), 2 to 3 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 275m (900ft)
Level 3, Approx. 8.04km (5 miles), 2 to 3 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 366m (1200ft)
Level 4, Approx. 11.26km (7 miles), 2 to 4 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 488m (1600ft)
Level 5, Approx. 12.87km (8 miles), 3 to 5 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 609m (2000ft)

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.

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.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 6.4km (4 miles), 2 to 3 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 152.4m (500ft)
Level 3, Approx. 11.26km (7 miles), 2 to 4 hours Walking Elevation gain: 243.84m (800ft)
Level 5, Approx. 16.09km (10 miles), 4 to 6 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 823m (2700ft)

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.

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.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 3, Approx. 9.6km (6 miles), 2 to 4 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 152.4m (500ft)
Level 4, Approx. 14.48km (9 miles), 3 to 5 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 397m (1300ft)
Level 5, Approx. 19.31km (12 miles), 5 to 7 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 518m (1700ft)

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.

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

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 4.8km (3 miles), 2 to 3 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 275m (900ft)
Level 3, Approx. 6.4km (4 miles), 2 to 3 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 397m (1200ft)
Level 4, Approx. 11.26km (7 miles), 2 to 4 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 488m (1600ft)

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.

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.

TWO HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 4.8km (3 miles), 2 to 3 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 122m (400ft)
Level 3, Approx. 8.04km (5 miles), 2 to 3 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 458m (1500ft)

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.