Itinerary - Italy: Trekking through the Dolomites

Roundtrip flights are not included in the package, so you can choose from where and when you want to fly.

We meet in Mestre, part of the Metropolitan City of Venice. Once a rural area overlooking the Venice Lagoon, Mestre has developed into a key crossroads in north-eastern Italy. Trains and buses connect it to Venice with waits of just 10-12 minutes. The town center is lively and welcoming, making it the perfect place to start our journey with an excellent spritz and some cicchetto.

Buongiorno, let's get ready to embark on a medieval adventure as we visit the 2000-year-old Zumelle Castle near the village of Mel. Its strategic location made it a constant target of disputes throughout history. After a remarkable renovation, the castle now shines in all its medieval splendour. Inside we have the opportunity to indulge in a themed lunch, immersing ourselves in the tastes and atmosphere of the time. We can't miss the spectacular Blue Cave, nestled amidst the Belluno pre-Alps, with its stunning turquoise water. Let's dive into history... and nature!

In the afternoon, we'll venture towards the enchanting village of Cison di Valmarino, one of Italy's finest. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Venetian pre-Alps, it presents picturesque trails, horse rides and charming farmhouses offering delectable local delicacies. Our next stop is Castelbrando, a magnificent castle overlooking the village. The castle also provides a perfect setting to savour a delightful 'aperitivo' featuring regional delights.

Today we go up to the highest point on our itinerary! By hiking Mount Lagazuoi we'll venture through a historic tunnel carved during World War I, ascending to an altitude of 2752m. This 1km journey blends captivating history and stunning nature, with awe-inspiring landscapes along the climb. It takes around 2 hours and demands some physical exertion, though a cable car option is available. Once on the mountain's peak, we'll enjoy a delicious lunch at an authentic alpine hut.

The second stop of the day will be one of the most famous mountain towns in Italy: Cortina d'Ampezzo. A top destination for many celebs, sportsmen and nature lovers, this is the perfect spot to be mesmerised by the beauty of the Dolomites surrounding it.

Good morning! Today we enjoy another feast of beautiful panoramas as we reach an enchanting place cradled in the middle of the Dolomites, Lake Braies! The landscape is breathtaking from every angle and we can decide to fully enjoy it with a simple walk around its perimeter or cross it by renting a wooden boat. One thing is guaranteed: the clean mountain air will help us feel refreshed!

Our journey through the Dolomites brings us to the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Starting from the Auronzo Retreat at 2400m, we'll embark on a breathtaking 9km panoramic walk around these majestic peaks. With mostly flat terrain and occasional gentle slopes, it's suitable for all. We'll then enjoy a picnic on the lush meadows or have dinner at a cosy hut along the trail, soaking in the spectacular views at every turn.

Today we descend in altitude to make a cultural stop in Possagno where the house-museum of one of the most famous Italian sculptors and artists of the 19th century, Antonio Canova, is located. Among the many memorabilia, the historic building also houses a magnificent collection of plasters used by the artist as models for his sculptures. In the late morning we continue towards Asolo, another of the most beautiful villages in Italy, where we can enjoy an 'aperitivo' in the castle garden and a typical Venetian lunch in a local inn.

We'll spend the afternoon discovering the vineyards of one of Italy's most renowned areas for wine production: the hills of Valdobbiadene. We will go to visit some cellars, where the friendly staff will show us the production process, the difference in the various types of wine... and obviously let us taste their best products, accompanied by typical salami and cheese: a very Italian way to spend the afternoon!

Today, we return to Mestre, not the city of love (that's Paris), but Venice is! After returning our cars and checking in, we can choose to reach Venice by train or bus, crossing the scenic Ponte della Libertà over the lagoon. Once there, we can explore on foot or take a vaporetto, visiting iconic spots like Piazza San Marco, the Palazzo Ducale, and the Basilica di San Marco. Don't miss the panoramic view of Venice from the Terrazza del Fondaco dei Tedeschi at sunset. In the afternoon, enjoy the Venetian tradition of "going to bacari" for an ombretta (wine) and cicchetto (local snacks). A perfect way to end our Venetian adventure!

We have to say 'arrivederci': see you on your next WeRoad adventure!