With almost 30 years of Italian tour expertise, we have expanded our trips to include the breathtaking northern Dolomites region. Get the opportunity to walk through serene valleys, explore charming mountain villages, and admire the panoramic views from off-season ski lifts and gondolas. While known for its towering peaks, in the company of an expert local guide, you’ll be inspired – not intimidated – by the dramatic scenery all around you. From impressive rock formations to serene alpine meadows and from forested footpaths to lakeside vistas, follow the walking trails to see the very best of this region, on foot at eye level.
Take In The View From the Seceda Ridgeline
What better way to soak in the views here than from up high? Take to the skies on a cable car ride to Col Raiser station for a scenic walk towards the iconic Seceda ridgeline. Then stretch your legs along the walking trail that gently ascends through alpine meadows to enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomite peaks, including the jagged Odle Group and the dramatic Sassolungo. Along the way, your expert local guide will share insight about this region’s unique geology, as well as the flora and fauna around you. Listen to the sounds of the birds overhead and keep your eyes out for chamois, which are goatlike animals whose horns curve backward.
Experience Northern Italian Cuisine in the Dolomites
On tour, you’ll dine like (and with) the locals, as you discover culture through cuisine. Sit down together with your guide for a dinner that is bursting with the flavors of Ladin. Rooted in the Dolomites, this culinary tradition celebrates local produce that thrives in the higher altitudes and fuses Italian, Swiss, and Austrian influences. Characterized by simple and locally available ingredients, Ladin cuisine can be found in:
– Hearty soups & comforting meals suited to the mountain climate
– Use of local dairy products, especially cheeses
– Wild herbs and flowers from the Dolomites
– Smoked meats, particularly speck
– Barley, rye, and wheat as staple grains
– Root vegetables like potatoes and turnips
– Wild berries and mushrooms
– Rustic presentation in mountain huts (rifugios) and farmhouse restaurants
You’ll also get the opportunity to sample this cuisine when you walk to a charming alpine hut owned by our friend Guido and are invited in to sit down to a lunch of pasta, gnocchi and ravioli. Savor these homemade dishes that have been crafted from the freshest farm-to-table ingredients…buon appetito!
Explore The Dolomites’ Deep Cultural History
In addition to the natural beauty of this region, the Dolomites is also steeped in history. You’ll meet friendly locals, such as shepherds and farmers, and learn about their history and traditions first-hand. Walk back in time with a visit to Passo Falzarego (a scenic high mountain pass) as you explore the World War I ruins and remnants, and learn about the fierce battles between the Italian and Austro-Hungarian armies from 1915 to 1918. For a better view of the area, head up in the Lagazuoi gondola to the mountain’s summit for a walk and to explore the Lagazuoi Open-Air Museum. Pause at the restored tunnels and trenches as you gain an appreciation for the dramatic high-altitude warfare that took place here. You’ll also hear stories about how the iconic Cinque Torri served as a strategic point during World War I and how Cortina gained international fame as a winter sports destination after hosting the first Winter Olympics broadcast live in 1956.
Sip Your Way Through The South Tyrol’s Wines
Sip and stroll with us in the vineyards of South Tyrol as you learn about the terroir and climate of this region’s white grape varieties. Get the opportunity to meet a local winemaker who shares how the distinctive white wines thrive in this Alpine environment and then savor some samples during a curated wine tasting. Generally characterized by mineral freshness, these elegant and crisp white wines are offered in both unoaked and oaked styles. South Tyrol (also known as Alto Adige in the wine world) is Italy’s northernmost wine region, and despite its small size, it produces exceptional wines that you are sure to enjoy. Cheers to your time in this scenic wine region…salute!
Enjoy A Leisurely Hike up Cinque Torri
The Cinque Torri (meaning ‘Five Towers’ in Italian) is a spectacular rock formation with breathtaking alpine vistas and excellent walking opportunities. On tour, you’ll ascend to the top on a scenic chair life to take in the views and set out on a leisurely stroll. While you’ll hear about the history of nearby rock climbing from your expert local guide (and you’ll certainly see backpackers hiking) you’ll get to enjoy the easy-going trails at a relaxed pace. The perfect destination for all levels of athleticism and activity, Cinque Torri is a popular place to enjoy nature, get some fresh air, and marvel at the dramatic views all around you.
Ready to explore Italy’s scenic Dolomites, on foot at eye level? Join Classic Journeys on a curated walking tour led by expert local guides!
