11 Days
19 Meals
Leader
CT Rating
Small Group
Book Early
Embrace "La Dolce Vita" During This Active Hiking Tour
Trek through the dreamiest landscapes of northern Italy. From the Venetian Lagoon, we venture north through lush farmlands before reaching the rolling foothills of the Alps. Along the way, take in vistas, dine on delicious cuisine, try cooking the Italian way, and savour the fruits of the hills with a glass or two of wine. Head to the towering Dolomites, where we will hike between peaks and drive along mountain roads. To cap it off, we will unwind in Venice with visits to the colourful islands of Murano and Burano. With our journey leader and local guides, we will hike through stunning scenery, soak up the region’s history and culture, and connect with nature. This trip promises to be nothing short of magical!
Tour Highlights
- Five days of guided hikes through the beautiful Italian countryside and the picturesque Dolomites, including Seceda Ridgeline, Fanes Waterfalls, Lake Braies, the Cinque Torri, and Tre Cime di Lavaredo
- Two nights in Venice, five nights in the Dolomites, and two nights in the Prosecco Hills
- Guided walking tour of Venice
- Day trip to visit the colourful villages of Murano and Burano
- Cooking class in the rural pre-Alps region
Inclusive Features
- Return economy group airfare between Canada and Italy
- 9 nights in comfortable hotels, as indicated or similar
- Baggage handling for one piece of luggage per guest at hotels
- Sightseeing and excursions as outlined in the program
- A glass of wine and mineral water provided with included lunches and dinners
- 19 meals included as noted in the itinerary (B - 9 breakfasts, L - 5 lunches, D - 5 dinners)
- Services of your Canadian journey leader and local guides.
- All gratuities, surcharges, taxes and fees for included services
- Airport transfers in Canada or equivalent value with purchase of group airfare
Itinerary
Group members gather in Toronto for the transatlantic overnight flight to Venice, Italy.
Upon arrival in Venice, our guide will greet us and accompany us throughout our journey until we return home. We head north to the rolling hills between historic Venice and the Italian Alps. This evening, enjoy our welcome reception and dinner at our hotel.
Hotel Villa Soligo (2 nights)
Departing from Piazza Cima, we take a short walk to Conegliano Castle, where we can enjoy a beautiful view of the hills and the Piave River. After a short break at a café, we return along the old walls. Nearby, we visit a young couple who will introduce us to “la dolce vita” in their rustic Italian home tucked away in the countryside. Here, surrounded by woodlands, is the perfect place to experience a unique cooking class from a professional chef. A perfect way to begin our discovery of the regional culture and cuisine.
This morning we venture deeper into the Dolomiti Region. We will ascend via cable car to Rifugio Scoiattoli, a charming mountain cabin refuge, for a lunch surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas. Following lunch, we will embark on a scenic two-hour ring trail walk around the Averau and Nuvolau refuges. Time permitting we may visit the open-air museum showcasing WWI artillery emplacements.
[up to 5km / 300m elevation change]
Hotel des Alpes (5 nights)
Enjoy the incredible scenery as we travel along meandering mountain roads up to Rifugio Auronzo. From here we begin our trek on the mountain trails, basking in the views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. At Rifugio Locatelli, we will pause for lunch before returning to our coach. Time permitting we shall stop to explore some areas near the quaint village of Cortina d’Ampezzo.
[up to 7 km / 150m elevation change]
The Seceda Ridgeline is one of the most iconic landscapes of the Dolomites. We reach the ridgeline by cable car from the mountain town of Ortisei. Our walk takes us through the beautiful meadows that cascade down to the valley below, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. [up to 6km / 300m elevation change]
Just north of our hotel, we find today’s trail. The many pools, rapids and waterfalls of the Rio Fanes dot the trail as it meanders through the valley. En route, we shall stop for panoramic views of the lower Fanes waterfalls, one of the tallest and highest flow rate falls in the region.
[up to 8km / 250 elevation change]
This morning we visit the north side of the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park and the picturesque Lake Braies. Our leisurely walk will loop around what is arguably one of the Dolomites’ most beautiful lakes, with mountain peaks towering above on all sides and various trails branching out into the surrounding valleys.
[approximately 4 to 6km / 100m elevation change]
After we descend from the majestic Italian Alps, Venice welcomes us back. During our guided walking tour, you will encounter some of Venice’s iconic landmarks, such as the Rialto Bridge, St. Mark's Square with the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica, and the Bridge of Sighs. Of course those interested may take an optional gondola ride (additional cost).
After we descend from the majestic Italian Alps, Venice welcomes us back. During our guided walking tour, you will encounter some of Venice’s iconic landmarks, such as the Rialto Bridge, St. Mark's Square with the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica, and the Bridge of Sighs. Of course those interested may take an optional gondola ride (additional cost).
Hotel Santa Marina (2 nights)
Enjoy a relaxing boat trip to Murano and Burano, the two most colourful islands in the Venetian lagoon. These islands are home to generations of Venetian artisans, world-renowned for their incredible craftsmanship. Witness live demonstrations of their time-honoured traditions of glassblowing and lacemaking, then browse their exquisite collections. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. Tonight is our farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
All too soon, we say 'ciao' to Italy as we gather for our return flight to Canada.
Have any questions? Contact Joilyn at jdoucette [at] craigtravel.com or call 1-800-387-8890
Tour Cost in Canadian Dollars Per Person
Do you have any questions about this journey? Don't hesitate to contact us!
jdoucette [at] craigtravel.com (subject: Hiking%20the%20Dolomites%202024) (Email Us)
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First deposit is $500 per person
Second deposit of $1,000 per person is due on May 21, 2024
Final payment is due on July 23, 2024.
*Land-only price is based on joining at the hotel in Farra di Soligo and leaving at the hotel in Venice. Airfares from other gateways are available on request. Airfares and air carriers are subject to change and will be confirmed prior to final payment. Refer to inclusive features for details. Please note twin bed (two beds) accommodation is limited.
Tour price is based on sharing a twin-bedded room at hotels. Prices are based on a minimum of 20 members and on rates, taxes and fees effective March 2024. Prices are subject to change due to factors beyond our control.
Small group size for a more intimate experience. Maximum 25 travellers.
Insurance is NOT INCLUDED but is highly recommended. Premiums are calculated based on the individual’s age, destination (country), trip length, and trip booking window – please contact our staff to receive a quote. Your coverage starts on the effective date of your confirmation of coverage. Please discuss your insurance coverage prior to booking. Refer to the enrollment form for terms and conditions.
