Italian Dolomites and Venice Walk

Upon arrival, a water taxi will whisk you from the airport through Venice's alluring canals to your accommodations in the heart of Old Town. You'll stay at the elegant Ca’ Favretto, Hotel San Cassiano, a historic 4-star residence once home to renowned 19th-century Venetian artists. After settling in, enjoy some leisure time to explore before gathering for a welcome dinner in the evening.

Begin the day with an in-depth tour of Venice, exploring iconic landmarks like Palazzo Ducale, Piazza San Marco, and the Bridge of Sighs. Indulge in the city's rich history, Gothic architecture, and artistic marvels. After lunch, transition from the canals to the mountains, traveling by boat and road to the Dolomites. Arrive in the picturesque village of Canazei, where you can rest, reset, and prepare for the hiking adventures ahead.

Approximately 5 hours of walking (15km)

Embark on a 15km hike (approximately 5 hours) along the southern face of the majestic Sella Massif. A short drive to Passo Pordoi begins the journey, with stops at a War Memorial and a panoramic trail leading to Rifugio Kostner for lunch. Afterward, descend to a chairlift for a scenic ride to Corvara in Alta Badia. Spend the afternoon at leisure, relaxing or exploring the charming Ladin villages and their vibrant culture.

Approximately 5 hours walking (8km)

Today's 8km hike (approximately 5 hours) demonstrates the beauty of alpine meadows. Starting near San Cassiano, ascend through forests to the boulder gardens and the historic La Crusc Church (1511). After a delicious lunch and a visit to the church, continue through meadows dotted with hay huts and the soft chime of cowbells. Return to Corvara for a well-deserved rest and shared evening meal.

Approximately 5 hours walking (11km)

Start the day on a high with a gondola ride to Passo Gardena, soaring over Colfosco. After a quick espresso at the Jimmy Hutt, hike to Forcella Cir, surrounded by dramatic rock spires and breathtaking views of the Sella Massif. Descend into the striking U-shaped Val Chedul, passing alpine terrain, tree lines, and more lush meadows before reaching Val Lunga and Selva, your destination for the night.

Approximately 5 hours walking (11km)

Hike along the scenic flanks of the Rasciesa Odle mountain group, known as the "Needles" in Ladin. Begin with a funicular ride from Ortisei to Chalet Resciesa, then follow a gently undulating trail, offering gorgeous views of the dramatic Odle Group. Pause at a local Rifugio before descending to Ortisei via cable car.

Approximately 5 hours walking (11km)

Get set for a high-altitude hike (11km, approximately 5 hours) with stunning sweeping views, wildflowers, and abundant fauna. Begin at Passo Sella, following a well-marked trail beneath the towering Sassolungo and Sassopiatto massifs. Stop at Rifugio Vicenza for lunch amidst dramatic rocky landscapes before continuing through verdant slopes. Pause at the charming Murmeltier Hütte for a drink before completing the day's journey at your hotel where we rest ahead of a free day in Alpe di Siusi.

Switch off entirely on a day of relaxation or exploration amidst the breathtaking scenery of Alpe di Siusi. Unwind with spa amenities, savour al fresco dining, and indulge in the region's finest wines. For those with itchy feet, guided hikes with stunning views and visits to local rifugios for regional cuisine and coffee are available.

Approximately 7 hours walking (9.5km)

Embark on a stunning 9.5km hike (approximately 7 hours) through Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest alpine pastureland. Traverse the Italian meadows we’ve grown to know and love so well this trip to Rifugio Alpe di Tires for a lunch break before returning via a breathtaking balcony trail overlooking Val Duron, with views of the Catinaccio and Antermoia mountains. Descend back to your lodging in Alpe di Siusi.

Today is the last day of your hiking adventure in the Dolomites that we suspect you’ll now have a far deeper adoration of. After breakfast we farewell our hotel and venture through the mountains to Venice in time for departing flights in the afternoon. Please note that flights booked after 1pm are ideal. It’s goodbye for now, until we walk again…