Hiking Italy’s Dolomites

Table of Contents

Trip Highlights, Map, Tour Details, Itinerary, What’s included, Itinerary Changes, Grade & Terrain, Condition Grading, Accommodation, Starting point and getting there, Food, Weather, Gear checklist, Currency & Banking, Passports, Visas

The Dolomites, a Unesco World Heritage site in the northern Italian Alps, is a playground for outdoor adventurers. With their vertical walls, sheer cliffs, and pale-colored dolomitic limestone eroded into towers and steep-sided valleys by rain, ice, sun and wind, they make for some of the most breathtaking mountain landscapes in the world. We love them so much, that we have developed this Alta Via Tour to indulge our passion for the region. The trip starts in Bolzano where we meet and then we ease you into the mountains, with two nights in Selva di Val Gardena, before taking you higher to hike the "Alta Via" or High Route. This is a special experience because you’ll see some of Europe’s most spectacular alpine scenery, while staying high up in the mountains for three nights in isolated mountain chalets known as “Rifugi”. They are more Spartan than a hotel, but our travelers always remark how much more comfortable they are than they had expected. Proper beds, hot showers, and delicious meals are provided and the experience of watching the sun set from high up in the mountains is a priceless. The last day, we end back in the comfort of a four-star hotel in Selva di Val Gardena, where you going to have time for some well-deserved pampering at the Spa, followed by the farewell dinner. This tour provides you with a real Himalayan-style trekking adventure but with comfortable lodgings and superb Italian food and wine. It’s definitely a winning combination!

Trip Highlights

- Get away from it all while hiking amid glorious landscapes of soaring peaks, pinnacles, and colossal rock walls - Discover Bolzano, South Tyrol's historic capital, home of "Otzi the Iceman," the famous glacier mummy - Wake up to the quietness of mountain rifugios offer, and savor a few moments over a steaming cup of coffee as the dew dries and steams in the morning sun - Savor delicious local specialties such as Casunziei, ravioli stuffed with beetroot and ricotta, and Polenta – often referred to as “the bread of the Dolomites”

Map

Tour Details

Dates: August 25 – September 1 Days/Nights: 8 days / 7 nights Price: 3000 euros per person Theme: Hiking & Trekking Condition grading: Moderate to Strenuous

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Bolzano and welcome dinner Begin your trip in the beautiful South Tyrolean city of Bolzano, the gateway to the western Dolomites. Check into the historic Hotel Laurin, a four-star hotel with a heated swimming pool in the center of town and a fixture in the city since 1910. Take some time to tour the fascinating Ötzi Museum that tells the story of a hunter who died in the mountains 5,300 years ago. His body was found in the ice about 20 years ago and provides unique insight into the life of our Bronze Age ancestors. Meet your guides for a drink before dinner and then dine in a centuries’ old restaurant in the town center.

Overnight in Bolzano, Hotel Laurin (D)

Day 2 Drive to Ortisei and warm-up hike towards Selva di Val Gardena In the morning we will drive to Ortisei where we’re whisked up into the mountains by gondola lift to 2,500m for the start of our hike. Walk beneath the spectacular spires of the Odle massif and gaze out across the valley to the Alpe di Siusi, whose jagged peaks are silhouetted against the sky. Stop for a snack break at our first rifugio (mountain hut) and then continue hiking to another rifugio for a hearty lunch. After an espresso and maybe a piece of sinful strudel, continue your hike with a descent to our hotel in Selva di Val Gardena, an historic four-star hotel

and our home for the next two nights (a well-placed van can shuttle you through some of the descent to save valuable knees!). Explore the town before dinner or just relax at the hotel’s spa and indoor pool.

Overnight in Selva di Val Gardena, Hotel Oswald (B,D) Hiking distance: 14 km / Hiking Duration: 6 hours Elevation gain & loss: 900m & 850m Driving distance: Bolzano to Ortisei 420km / 4h 30min

Day 3 Hike at the foot of Mount Sassolungo Start your day with a trip on a “funivia” (cable car), which carries you swiftly up to 2,000 m. The hike begins gently as we have an easy climb followed by a traverse beneath the north wall of the Sassolungo. Then we head south and wind our way between rocky pinnacles to another rifugio, where we can stop for a well-earned break. Continue from there up a narrow pass and gradually arrive at another dramatically perched rifugio for lunch. From there we hop into a “pod” lift which takes us down the steep descent to the Passo Sella where we resume our hike along the southeast side of the Sassolungo. Return to town on another gondola ride and relax at your hotel before meeting up again for a drink. Tonight is a “free night” so you can choose to eat simply or go lavish.

Overnight in Selva di Val Gardena, Hotel Oswald (B) Hiking distance: 11 km / Hiking Duration: 5 hours Elevation gain & loss: 750m & 200m

Day 4 Hike towards Rifugio Genova The adventure ramps up today as we begin the “Alta Via” (high road) part of the trip. Stay the next three nights in mountain chalets, which aren’t as luxurious as hotel rooms but still offer proper beds and linens, hot showers, and excellent food and wine. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and stunning views as you let the cares of daily life fade away. We begin with a gondola lift up to 800 meters to start our hike along the northern

flank of the Odler massif. As you hike, you’re rewarded by amazing views towards the Val di Funes and onto the jagged peaks of the Odler group, then stop for a hearty lunch at the Rifugio Odle, which sits perched at 2,000 m. Continue the walk on a spectacular trail that leads beneath the towering spires of The Furcheta to Rifugio Genova, our home for the night. This charming chalet was built in 1898 and is located at the entrance to the Puez-Odle national park. Celebrate the day’s hike with a hot shower and a cold beer, followed by dinner in the cozy wood- paneled “stube” right there at the chalet

Overnight in Rifugio Genova (B,D) Hiking distance: 18km / Hiking Duration: 6 hours Elevation gain & loss: 750m & 450m Driving distance: Selva di Val Gardena to gondola lift 5 km / 15min

Day 5 Hike from Rifugio Genova towards Rifugio Puez Hike today through Alpine terrain into the Odle-Puez national park and ascend between dramatic peaks to the Nives Pass, which tops out at 2,740 m. If you’ve got the energy, continue out to the top of Piz Duelda, which reaches 2,909 m. Breathtaking views surround you as you gradually descend to the Puez Hutte rifugio, tucked beneath the soaring peaks beyond. Rest up from your hike on the large, sunny terrace and then enjoy dinner of local specialties at the charming restaurant.

Overnight in Rifugio Puez (B,L,D) Hiking distance: 10km / Hiking Duration: 5 hours Elevation gain & loss: 850m & 600m

Day 6 Hike from Rifugio Puez towards Rifugio Gardenacia A lovely walk awaits you today as our trail climbs into the mountains and then gradually descends into the Val du Lunghiaru. Hike past brilliant green fields dotted with wooden shelters and rustic farmhouses, then continue through the tiny hamlet of Pescol (pop. 21!) before returning

into the mountains on a steep trail through a ravine to the unique Alpine scenery of the Gardenacia Plateau. The trail meanders along the undulating terrain to arrive at the Gardenacia chalet, which sits above the Val Badia. Marvel at the contrast between the austere rocky projections above you and the gently swaying larch trees below. This mountain hut was constructed in 1937 and was renovated in 2009, and retains much of the original décor. What’s more, it has an amazing sauna whose large windows afford spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. We stay the night in rooms that accommodate two, three, and four people, with shower and WC down the hall.

Overnight in Rifugio Gardenacia (B,D) Hiking distance: 16km / Hiking Duration:6 hours Elevation gain & loss: 750 & 900m

Day 7 Hike from Rifugio Gardenacia back to Selva di val Gardena Today’s final hike takes you up to the Para dai Giai and along a high ridge line at 2,450 m. Stop to admire the emerald green water of the Lech de Ciampei, a beautiful Alpine lake, and then continue on to the Somafurcia Pass for a welcome snack break. From there we hike along the southern flank of the Crepeina massif. Gradually descend towards the soaring Piz da Cir, whose vertical rock face has attracted climbers for a century. End your hike at the Danterceipe chalet, where we pick up a gondola to spare our knees the final 600 m. descent back to Selva di Val Gardena. Check back into our four-star hotel and rest up after your week of hiking at the spa. Meet up again this evening for a celebratory drink followed by a delicious dinner at one of the town’s fabulous restaurants.

Overnight in Selva di Val Gardena, Hotel Oswald (B,L,D) Hiking distance: 11km / Hiking Duration: 5 hours Elevation gain & loss: 900m & 750m

Day 8 Transfer to Bolzano We leave this morning at 9.30 a.m. for a 1hr transfer to the Bolzano train

station for trains departing at 11:00 and after. From there you can get connections to Venice, Verona, Milan, Innsbruck and beyond.

(B) Driving distance: Selva di Val Gardena to Bolzano 43 km / 1 hour

What’s Included Price includes: All accommodations as listed (or similar) based on double occupancy in Bolzano and Selva di Val Gardena. In the rifugios rooms are based on a first come, first served basis. If you book early, and you are a couple there is a good chance we will be able to reserve double rooms for you, however it may be necessary to have three or four people maximum in a room. Toilets and showers are in the hallway (it's a great way to meet people!) Hotel taxes and service charges All transportation during the trip The lift tickets All activities mentioned in the program Services of a guide throughout the tour Included meals: Breakfast, two picnic lunches and six dinners as indicated in the itinerary Not Included: Domestic and/or international air fare Medical expenses Travel or emergency evacuation insurance Gratuities for leader/guide or driver Alcoholic beverages and meals other than those outlined in itinerary Visas if needed Transfer to and from Bolzano Other items of a personal nature Αnything not mentioned in above program

Itinerary Changes

We are constantly updating our unique itineraries based on new information and experiences available. The walks, accommodations, and visits listed may be adjusted. The itineraries presented are subject to modification and change by Tripin Adventures. We reserve the right, without penalty, to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in our judgment, conditions warrant, or if we deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of participants.

Grade & Terrain This trip Level is Moderate/Strenuous and is suitable for people that are experienced hikers in good physical condition, who enjoy being challenged. There are quite significant elevation gains and losses and although the paths are well-kept the terrain often tends to be very stony and rocky. Sometimes it is necessary to use one’s arms to climb up a short “impasse” or sit down on your bum to descend sections that are too big for a step. Some of them have some “open” parts which could unsettle anyone who suffers from vertigo (on the other hand, all you have to do is look the other way!). Altitude can play a role as our challenging hikes are in the mountains, and in the Alta Via section we sleep at 2,700 meters. In addition to the above you will be carrying more in your backpacks than on other tours because: a) we are in the mountains and therefore you need to carry more layers and be ready for any weather conditions; b) you may need to carry more water since it may not be available; c) you may be carrying your lunch; and d) you will have to carry extra clothing for our three night stay in the mountain chalets because luggage transfers are not possible.

Condition Grading

Moderate Trips designated “Moderate” are more active and require a bit more endurance. Hikes and treks include occasional steep ascents. Trip members should be experienced hikers in good physical condition, capable of walking 3-5 hours

Strenuous Trips designated “Strenuous” require strong physical stamina, as we’re often active for 6+ hours per day. Hikes and treks include traversing more rugged and mountainous terrain.

Accommodation

Day 1: Overnight in Bolzano, Hotel Laurin (C) Day 2-3: Overnight in Selva di Val Gardena, Hotel Oswald (www.hoteloswald.com/en/) Day 4: Overnight in Rifugio Genova (www.schlueterhuette.com/) Day 5: Overnight in Rifugio Puez (www.rifugiopuez.it/en/) Day 6: Overnight in Rifugio Gardenacia (www.gardenacia.it/en) Day 7: Overnight in Selva di Val Gardena, Hotel Oswald (www.hoteloswald.com/en/)

Starting point and getting there

Starting point is: Bolzano Getting There & Away: The trip starts in Bolzano, which is easily reached by train from various Italian cities. The closest airports are Innsbruck, Verona, Milan, and Venice. Travel time by train to Bolzano: from Innsbruck 2 hrs, direct; from Verona 1.5 - 2 hrs, direct; from Milan 2.5 - 3 hrs, with one change; from Venice (Mestre) 2.5 - 3.5, most with one change; from Florence: 3 - 3.5 hrs, some direct high-speed trains; from Rome 4.5 - 5, some direct high-speed trains. Air: The most convenient airports to the trip are Innsbruck, Verona, Milan, and Venice. For a complete list of Italian airports and a selection of low-cost airlines, see our "Transport Info" page. Rail: See the Trenitalia website (in English) at this link. For alternative high-speed rail travel, see the Italo website. For complete information on using the Italian train system, see our blog post. Getting Away at the End of the Trip: After breakfast on Sunday, we provide a 1hr private transfer to the train station in Bolzano, arriving around 10:30 a.m. for 11:00 am trains. From there you can get trains to Venice (takes 2-3 hrs, depending on departure), Milan (2.5 hrs), Verona

(1 hour), Innsbruck (2.5 - 3.5 hrs), Florence (3.5 hours), or other cities.

Food

Fresh, flavorful, and delightfully simple, the sun-kissed Italian cuisine is dolce vita on the plate. It reflects the history and bounty of its diverse regions and relies on the fresh, seasonal home-grown produce and generally simple, unfussy cooking that brings out the rich flavors of the Mediterranean. The traditional cuisine of the Dolomites was born “poor”, as it originally included only a few dishes and featured recipes that were simple, but with the authentic and distinctive taste which reflects the nature of these beautiful alpine valleys. As time passed, this cuisine became more extensive, but always remained loyal to tradition, which emphasizes genuine local products of the land where the cuisine originated. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other’s company. There's no obligation to do this though. Wherever possible we will cater for dietary needs for any included meals, but there may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own. Note that alcohol and soft drinks are not included.

Weather

The climate of the Dolomites is affected by its geographical location, size, strata and the exposure of the mountain slopes. Generally speaking, the summers are mild with average monthly maximum temperatures in July and August rarely much over 25°C and averages of around 20°C in June, September and October. Higher altitudes influence Dolomites climate as temperatures decrease, so during the summer evenings we recommend you always to have warm clothing. In addition to the above all mountain regions get a fair amount of rain in summer and the Dolomites are no exception.

Gear Checklist

The Dolomites have a temperate climate. Base your clothing on the “layering system”, if it is hot you can “peel off” layers quickly, if it is cooler and windy you can quickly “dress up”. The lighter you travel, the easier you travel. Use your best judgement and pack as lightly as possible. You will appreciate light luggage towards the end of your trip Please consider taking along the following items on your trip.

Official Papers

✓ Valid passport ✓ Airline tickets

Luggage ✓ Duffel bag or rolling luggage ✓ 45l Backpack to carry clothing, camera, water bottle and snacks etc. ✓ Luggage locks and tags

Outerwear ✓ Midweight polar fleece sweater ✓ Polar fleece jacket ✓ Rain jacket and rain pants, or poncho

Clothing ✓ Hiking shorts ✓ Fast drying synthetic t shirt (2x pair) ✓ Long-sleeve shirt ✓ Casual clothing made of light-weight fabrics ✓ Hiking pants, loose and easy to move in ✓ Underwear ✓ Swimsuit

Clothing Accessories ✓ Sun hat or baseball cap ✓ Winter hat

Footwear ✓ Supportive hiking boots, broken-in with good ankle support ✓ Casual, comfortable shoes

Accessories ✓ Sunscreen and lip protection ✓ Sunglasses and retainer strap ✓ Head torch ✓ Personal hygiene items (towel, soap, etc.)

Optional Accessories ✓ Security pouch or money belt ✓ Trekking poles or walking staff ✓ Camera, memory and batteries ✓ Reading and writing materials ✓ Watch with alarm or travel alarm ✓ Travel pillow ✓ Motion sickness remedies ✓ Personal first-aid kit ✓ Insect repellent (low risk) ✓ Electric adapter plug/converter

This is not a fixed list, but more of a guideline, so feel free to add and remove items as you see fit.

Currency & Banking Italy has adopted the Euro as its currency. The easiest way to obtain local cash is from an ATM. Italy’s ATMs accept cards bearing the Cirrus, EC, Euro card, Visa and Plus symbols. If you take cash, US or Canadian Dollars can be easily exchanged at banks. Most major credit cards, Visa, MasterCard and American Express are accepted. It is advisable to have some Euros with you upon arrival to be used for a taxi if necessary. You may want to check the website www.xe.com for current exchange rates.

Passports

You must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the conclusion of your trip. Please make sure that you have blank pages in your passport for your visa (if required), entry and exit stamps (one for each). Please make a copy to take with you in the event yours is lost or stolen and keep it separate from your actual passport.

Visas

Currently an Italian Tourist Visa is not required for citizens of Canada, United States, Britain and Australia. If you hold another passport, please check online http://visacentral.com/visas.php