The UNESCO listed Dolomite region is an Italian region bursting with natural beauty and diversity. Our wonderful, packaged itinerary not only includes a free bar at the hotel each evening, but you will also experience the best of the area with wine tastings, a typical Trentino dinner and a grolla evening, plus, of course, the fantastic views and scenic drives! With stunning scenery, incredible inclusions and hospitality that is second to none, this will make for an unforgettable holiday!
Day 1 1 SUNDAY We travel to Dover for the short sea crossing to France. We continue to Liege in Belgium for dinner and over overnight stay
Day 2 MONDAY We continue our journey south into Germany, arriving in time for dinner at the Mercure Stuttgart Airport Messe.
Day 3 TUESDAY Taking in the glorious scenery of Southern Bavaria, and Austria’s picturesque Tyrol region we cross into Northern Italy and on to the fabulous Hotel Paganella for our 5-night stay.
Day 4 WEDNESDAY Today, our host, Fausto will take us out for a gentle walk around this friendly village. We enjoy a picnic with great company, food and wine... and start to get into the relaxed ‘Paganella way of life’ in the mountains!
Day 5 THURSDAY Today we arrive in one of Italy’s best kept secrets – stunning Merano! In true ‘Sound of Music’ fashion, this beautiful spa town sits nestled between the Dolomites. The town centre abounds with shops, restaurants and cafés oozing with delicious strudel. For a birds’ eye view of the city, take the chairlift up to the panoramic viewpoint. In the afternoon, we head to the ‘historic and family run winery Cantina Martinelli,’ where we enjoy a tour and tasting.
Day 6 FRIDAY Today we drive north towards Moena, based in the heart of the Dolomites, and ascend towards the vibrant town of Canazei. From here it is just a short drive to get to the ‘Sella Pass,’ an incredible viewing platform, from where we can enjoy lunch and appreciate the amazing 360-degree views across the Dolomites’ spectacular jagged peaks. We continue down into the alluring Val Gardena, a historic valley known for its wood making traditions. Enjoy a break in the picturesque village of Ortisei and relax over a delicious plate of strudel, or perhaps shop for one of the other local specialities – handmade cuckoo clocks!
Day 7 SATURDAY Our route this morning takes us past the lesser known but incredibly scenic Lake Molveno, and from here we enjoy the relaxing route taking us through to the top of Lake Garda. Riva offers a lakeside historic centre and is the most northerly point in Europe where olive trees grow! We have free time to explore Riva and enjoy a delicious lunch or drink in the main square.
Day 8 SUNDAY This morning we bid farewell to our Italian hosts and begin our return journey to Switzerland and our overnight at the Novotel Basel City Hotel.
Day 9 MONDAY We continue our homeward journey into France, arriving in good time for dinner at the Novotel Metz Amneville.
Day 10 TUESDAY Departing after breakfast we drive north to Calais and our crossing to Dover and are homeward bound.
This intimate and friendly, 3-star, family-run hotel is ideally located for touring this area due to its secluded proximity to the main motorway network. Fausto and his family ensure a warm welcome in this typically Austrian chalet-style hotel. Bedrooms are well appointed and all 26 contain a TV, telephone, Wi-FI and hairdryer. There is a cosy bar, a traditional restaurant serving excellent homemade fayre, a comfortable lounge and seating areas. Lift, Bar, Restaurant.
