Current as of: October 9, 2024 - 21:57
Current as of: October 9, 2024 - 21:57
5 out of 7 - Challenging
3 out of 7 - Moderate
Dramatic, imposing, unforgettable: the Dolomites rival any mountain range on Earth for natural beauty. Join an International Mountain Leader to walk through the national parks of Fanes-Sennes and Dolomiti di Sesto, trekking among the jagged peaks and gazing over the extraordinary three spires of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. We stay in the traditional village of Villabassa, where spectacular scenery meets a fiercely proud Tyrolean heritage. That’s encapsulated by our home for the week: Hotel Adler, with a wonderful spa and renowned fine-dining restaurant within its 400-year-old walls.
If you want to test yourself, join one of our Activity Level 5 (Challenging) departures. See the Itinerary and Dates & Prices tab for more details.
Join us to celebrate Exodus’ 50th anniversary! The departure starting in Villabassa on 5 October 2024 features extra inclusions to mark the occasion: an apple strudel cooking class and tasting with a Michelin starred chef, a local birthday celebration and a special edition Exodus kitbag.
This trip includes a few of our Citizen Science Departures. These special departures offer you the opportunity to be involved in the collection of freshwater samples during the trip. The environmental DNA information derived from this sample will contribute directly to the eBioAtlas; the world’s largest repository of flora and fauna species data, contributing to the conservation and restoration of biodiversity both locally and globally. To book onto one of these special departures, see the Dates & Prices tab. For more information on these departures and the eBioAtlas, click here.
Highlights
Due to the nature of the terrain on this trip, neither walking levels are recommended for vertigo sufferers.
This trip is graded Activity Level 3 (Moderate) or Activity Level 5 (Challenging), date dependent. For more information on our trip gradings please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
We enjoy walks in the same areas on each trip, but the length and difficulty vary according to the walking level. Please make sure you choose the week that best suits your ability.
Most weeks offer Activity Level 3 (Moderate) walking, where we usually walk between five and seven hours per day. The area we are visiting is criss-crossed by a network of long-established trails and walking paths, most well-maintained and waymarked. Even so, paths are rocky and on occasion exposed. A reasonable level of fitness is required for these weeks.
On some weeks, we offer Level 5 (Challenging) walking. On these departures, we usually walk between six and eight hours per day at a steady pace. We use established trails and mountain paths, which are often steep, rocky and more exposed than the Level 3 walks. For these departures, you will need to be surefooted and have a good level of fitness. Some fixed equipment (such as holding onto a steel wire or handrail for security) may be encountered.
The exact itinerary (and therefore the length of each walk) may vary depending on weather conditions or other factors beyond our control. While aiming to always follow the routes described in these trip notes, it will be the leader’s decision to amend the itinerary if and when necessary.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 15
Fly to Venice; transfer to Villabassa.
Start at Hotel Adler in Villabassa. The leader will give a short briefing to give an overview of the week ahead. The hotel is handily located on the village square, so any free time can be spent with a little stroll around, perhaps up past the church or down to the river. Alternatively, why not soak up the atmosphere with a relaxing drink?
The ideal start to visiting this vast area is a walk straight from the hotel through the very pretty, flower-filled Braies Valley. We walk through small villages and farmland until we reach the magnificent Lago di Braies itself, one of the 297 glacial lakes in the area. It is certainly one of the most beautiful, surrounded by jagged peaks that are reflected in the extraordinary mirror-like surface of the water. We follow the route of SS hostages, the leaders of 19 countries who were freed after the second world war by the inhabitants of Villabassa.
Distance: 8mi (13km); ascent: 1,663ft (507m); descent: 521ft (159m) w
Extension to the Malga for coffees 1mi (1.5km); ascent 246ft (75m)
Some departures on this trip are at Level 5. On these weeks, the walks completed are slightly different.
We start our walk today from the beautiful Lago di Braies and ascend to Rossalmhütte.
Distance: 9.3mi (15km); ascent: 2,461ft (750m); descent: 3,281ft (1,000m)
Today we explore high pastures and ridges along the Austrian border. We walk steadily exploring the meadows under the ridge of Knieberg. We have great views towards the Rotwand and Monte Popera. Later in the afternoon we visit Alpe Nemes hut, a great spot for a drink and a bite of homemade apple strudel.
Distance: 10.25mi (16.5km); ascent: 2,438ft (743m); descent: 2,365ft (721m)
Following a different track to the Level 3 weeks, we aim to summit Knieberg, descending later in the afternoon to Alpe Nemes hut.
Distance: 13mi (21km); ascent: 3,281ft (1,000m); descent: 3,281ft (1,000m)
We start at 6,562ft (2,000m) altitude, walking among beautiful wildflowers and ascend to the summit of Strudlekopf (7,579ft/2,310m). We stop at the Durrenstein hut in the early afternoon to try the local Kaiserschmarrn speciality. On a clear day, from the summit, we can enjoy views of the Tre Cime, Monte Piana and Monte Cristallo.
Distance: 9.3mi (15km); ascent: 1,640ft (500m); descent: 3,281ft (1,000m)
Starting at Platzwiese, we walk to the summit of Durrenstein (9,314ft/2,840m), a majestic peak with views all the way to the Austrian Tyrol.
Distance: 9.3mi (15km); ascent: 2,953ft (900m); descent: 2,953ft (900m)
A free day to relax in the hotel wellness centre or take a self-guided cycle around this wonderful area. Alternatively, make your way to Bolzano to visit a museum dedicated to Ötzi, the 5,000-year-old ‘iceman’ whose remarkably well-preserved body was found in 1991 high on a glacier on the Austro-Italian frontier. Or you could journey to the attractive provincial capital of Lienz in Austria; or closer to the cosy town of Brunico.
We enjoy a memorable walk under the Three Chimneys, or Tre Cime di Lavaredo (or Drei Zinnen in German). Set amid one of the classic mountain groups of this area, our walk around these impressive peaks is certainly a highlight of the week. Tonight the restaurant will delight your palate with an authentic Tyrolean gourmet dinner.
Distance: 6.83mi (11km); ascent: 1,817ft (554m); descent: 1,765ft (538m)
Today we complete a beautiful walk near the spectacular Tre Cime di Lavaredo; we then follow the path on the north side of Paternkofel heading to the Comici hut above Fischleintal. Tonight the hotel restaurant will delight your palate with an authentic Tyrolean gourmet dinner.
Distance: 11.8mi (19km); ascent: 1,969ft (600m); descent: 4,593ft (1,400m)
To complete the week, we take the amazing eastern approach route up Monte Piana. After 1,969ft (600m) ascent we find ourselves upon the flat-topped mountain surrounded by some of the most impressive scenery in the Dolomites. It is the site of an open-air museum dedicated to the first world war, where trenches, dugouts and shell craters can be seen among the alpine flowers. On our return, we have time to spot the brilliant blue gentians, alpine white edelweiss and bright saffron that create a beautiful scene around Lake Misurina, thanks to the beautiful pink of the limestone rock.
Distance: 8.5mi (13.7km); ascent: 2,450ft (747m); descent: 2,857ft (871m)
We ascend the southern crag of Monte Piana; there is then time to explore the open-air museum, stretched between the northern and southern summits.
Distance: 8.5mi (13.7km); ascent: 3,281ft (1,000m); descent: 2,297ft (700m)
To Venice; fly to London.
Enjoy your final breakfast in Hotel Adler and take the opportunity to reflect on what has been an inspirational escape in the Dolomites. After, it’s time to start your return journey home.
Extend your adventure with a pre- or post-tour exploration of Venice. Speak to your sales representative to check the availability and price of your chosen package.
1. Comfort Venice city extension
Package includes:
2. Deluxe Venice city extension:
Package includes:
Please note: It is possible the order of the itinerary listed above will be changed to ensure the best possible conditions for each activity during the trip. All listed activities and services will be included. Your leader will inform you of any changes locally after assessing conditions.
Considered the best in town, this four-star retreat has a privileged address on the village square. Rooms are traditional yet stylish and come with Hästens beds, each of which is created with natural materials.
The hotel itself is run by the Pircher family but began life as the home of nobleman Stefan von Kurz zum Thurn more than 400 years ago. You can see plenty of that heritage throughout the property.
The hub of social living will likely be the bar and fireplace room, where you can sip an aperitivo or perhaps a post-dinner gin and tonic, while enjoying the relaxed hubbub with the group (a local crowd often gathers here too). There’s also a good-sized pool for morning dips and a wellness centre with a sauna, steam room, solarium and small fitness centre.
Exodus special offer
For even more comfort, Hotel Adler offers upgrades for a special price, exclusive to Exodus travellers. There are various room types from which you can choose. Contact us for prices and availability.
Worth knowing
Single supplement from £ 300
Take the opportunity to ease into the trip, adjusting to the time zone and atmosphere at a more leisurely pace before the official tour begins. The following options are usually available on this trip:
Speak to your sales representative for a tailor-made quote and to confirm availability of your chosen package.
A post-tour experience offers a chance to revisit your favorite spots, delve deeper into the destination’s attractions, or simply savor moments of relaxation. The following options are usually available on this trip:
Speak to your sales representative for a tailor-made quote and to confirm availability of your chosen package.
All breakfasts, five lunches and five dinners, one of which will be an authentic Tyrolean gourmet dinner.
Please note an evening meal is not included on the first night, as flight schedules can mean a later arrival in Villabassa. Sandwiches or snacks are available at the airport.
For breakfast, the hotel offers a large selection of cereals, fruit, cheese and cold meats, (along with tea and coffee).
Five packed lunches are provided by the hotel. Each morning there is a small buffet with items to make your own lunch (eg bread rolls, ham, salad…). In an effort to minimise the use of plastic and single-use items, the hotel provides paper bag and reusable cutlery.
Head chef Hélène Markart is a devotee of old traditional recipes but is not afraid to give them a modern twist. At the heart of her philosophy is a reliance on local produce, from the local farmer to vegetables from the hotel garden. It’s no surprise to learn her prowess has been favourably reported in reputable guides such as Michelin.
There is a set menu for standard evening meals (usually three or four courses), which may include some local specialties such as Speckknodel (a dumpling dish).
Our gourmet dinner will undoubtedly be the culinary highlight, though as keeping things fresh and seasonal is part of the charm, there’s no way to know quite yet what delights may be served.
Transfers to and from the airport, and during the walking activities, will be in a private vehicle (normally minibus). On certain days, we may use public transport.
In the Dolomites (as always in the mountains) the weather is very changeable. In summer, expect rain on one day in two, which is likely to come in short but heavy, thundery bursts. In the valleys, daytime temperatures range from 12C to 22C (54F to 72F), although 25C (77F) is not unusual. In the mountains, it will be slightly colder. There are always patches of snow remaining on the higher peaks in late May and early November, and sometimes due to unpredictable winter weather, this can remain for a little longer. There is always the possibility of snowfall at any time of the season, therefore you need to be ready for anything, so pack shorts as well as warmer clothes; full waterproofs and sunscreen.
Start hotel: Piazza Von Kurz 3, Villabassa 39039
Phone: +39 0474 745128
Recommended arrival time: You’re welcome to arrive any time, though rooms are typically ready in the early afternoon and there’s a welcome briefing in the evening
Airport: Venice (VCE)
The start hotel is approximately a 3hr 30min drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
It’s possible to reach the start hotel by public transport, but the journey is complicated. We therefore recommend joining the group transfer where possible. If not, take a cab from directly outside the airport or arrange a private transfer through Exodus for approximately €356 (payable before departure). If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales consultant if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales consultant to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Villabassa
Location end: Villabassa
In the Dolomites, the weather can be very changeable and it is not unusual to find snow at low altitude on our walks, particularly on the early season departures. Supportive footwear and warm clothing are therefore essential for this trip.
Maps
Maps of the area are available locally, however if you wish to purchase one in advance we recommend the following:
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Italy. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/italy
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/italy
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Italy.html
Please note: it is compulsory to carry ID with you at all times in Italy.
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Ticks are known to be present in this region and can carry lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis and other diseases. Please take care to protect yourself. You can read more about ticks here.
If you’re a UK citizen, please note that your UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are still valid and offer the same cover as the Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) in the EU. This gives you medical care at a reduced cost, and in some cases for free, in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Once your EHIC has expired, replace it with a GHIC.
Italy's time zone: Europe/Rome (UTC +02:00)
Italy's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard), F (two round pins), and L (three round pins in a row) – 230V, 50Hz
Italy's currency: Euros (EUR)
Cashpoints are available at Venice airport and Villabassa (although this is not always working). Almost all places take major credit cards, yet cash is generally easier.
You will need sufficient funds to buy the one lunch and two dinners that are not included. We suggest €8-€12 for lunch and €15-€25 for dinner is sufficient (excluding drinks). If you would like to sample the excellent à la carte menu at Hotel Adler, please allow around €40.
Local taxes: many Italian cities have introduced a tourist tax for non-residents. The local administration is in charge of the tax, which will be collected by the accommodation provider at check-in or check-out. This fee varies depending on the hotel category, the season and number of days of stay. It is usually between €0.50 and €2.50 per person per night. For this trip, please allow around €15, depending on the season, for the week.
Optional excursions:
There are several extra excursions available, exact prices and details will be confirmed locally. The following can be used as a guide:
On all Exodus Premium Adventures tipping for any local support staff is included, and will normally be taken care of via your tour leader (or in some cases through our local agent). So need no for any tipping kitty contributions, or to make your own tips during the trip. Our ‘included tips’ will normally cover drivers, local specialist guides, certain hotel staff, and serving staff for included meals. Amounts will be in line with the local standard.
If you wish to make a further tip for some extra special service you may do so. Tips for the tour leader are not included. Whether to tip at all and the amount is entirely at your own discretion, but as a starting point we suggest around €20-€25 per person for the duration of the trip.
We work hard to create trips that have a positive impact on the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Learn more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.
Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:
People
How this trip helps improve life for local communities.
Places
How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.
Planet
How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.
Tips for sustainable travel on this trip
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.