A journey through history, art and countryside in Umbria, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Italy.
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Ever thought that the Dolomites were only for hardy hikers? Well, now you can enjoy them at a leisurely pace!
Dolomites
Mountains
Jun
Jul
Aug
Average group size: 12-14
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
The perfect blend of guided shorter walks, sightseeing trips, and quality accommodation for a more leisurely way to discover the world.
Overview
Ever thought that the Dolomites were only for hardy hikers? Well, now you can enjoy perhaps the most spectacular mountain range in Europe at a leisurely pace enjoying all the creature comforts you desire. Utilise the excellent lift system and easy paths to take in unparalleled mountain views and explore everything this region has to offer.
A fascinating aspect of this holiday is the linguistic richness. The Tyrol was Austrian and German-speaking until the end of WW1 when it was ceded to Italy. As a result, you'll hear both German and Italian spoken in equal measure. Additionally, you may come across Ladino speakers, a minority language closely related to Romansch in Switzerland, concentrated around Corvara and La Villa. The area is renowned for its "Viles," the most ancient and typical human settlements in Val Badia, representing the first examples of Alpine huts.
Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.
NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen
51800
Two blissful weeks in the Dolomites filled with some of the best natural scenery Italy has to offer.
Wengen, a charming car-free village, offers easy access to stunning Alpine trails via reliable cable cars and mountain trains. Enjoy leisurely strolls through meadows and soak in the breath taking mountain scenery. (One departure from Murren)
Valley deep, mountain high! This hidden gem of the Tirol has dramatic peaks, lakes, high tarns and an abundance of wildflowers. Ehrwald, at a height of 1000m, is one of the most spectacularly located villages in the Alps and is an excellent base for easy mountain walking.
From crystal lakes to mighty glaciers…easy alpine hiking at its best in Austria
Itinerary & Travel
Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.
Meals
Accommodation
Fly to Venice and continue by coach into the heart of the Dolomites at La Villa. The journey travels into the Dolomites through spectacular scenery.
Sometimes flights are to Verona airport, please look at individual dates for further information.
Transfer Time = 3 hours
Meals
Accommodation
The itinerary is expected to follow the daily schedule outlined below but please bear in mind that the order of the days may be amended, or walks substituted, due to weather conditions, attraction opening times, public transport timetables or changes beyond our control.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
This scenic walk winds through open woodland to the tranquil Sompunt Lake, following a picturesque hiking path. A chairlift takes you up to the Santa Croce Sanctuary at 2,045m, where you can savor stunning panoramic mountain views. Indulge in the Alps' best "Kaiserschmarren" (sliced pancakes) in the traditional wooden "Stube" rooms of the ancient hospice.
For the more energetic, an optional and easy walk along the riverside path back to La Villa is available.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Ascend to the Pralongia plateau via the Piz La Ila gondola for a breathtaking stroll through flower-filled meadows, offering stunning mountain and valley views. Descend to Corvara by gondola, creating an opportunity for a journey into the heart of the High Sella mountain range using the Boe gondola and Vallon chair lift, reaching an elevation of 2,525m.
For those seeking a bit more adventure, a short walk to the Franz Kostner Hut (2,550m) in a dramatic mountain setting is an enticing option. An optional easy walk back along the riverside path to La Villa completes the day, allowing for a leisurely return surrounded by the natural beauty of the area.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
A brief bus journey to Passo Falzarego sets the stage for an enchanting experience in the Dolomites. Ascend via the Lagazuoi cable car to reach one of the region's most beautiful areas. From the rifugio at 2,752m, enjoy an easy walk to the summit cross of Piccolo Lagazuoi (2,778m), reveling in breathtaking mountainous views.
After descending by cable car, embark on a leisurely stroll down the impressive San Cassiano valley, surrounded by flower-filled meadows. From the village, meander back along the river to La Villa, following the scenic 'Artists Path' for a picturesque conclusion to the day.
On these mountains an incredible war was waged between the Italian and Austro-Hungarian armies. Explore the Open Air War Museum of the Cinque Torri on foot and have lunch in a mountain hut. In the afternoon you can visit the Tre Sassi Fort museum at Passo Valparola.
Meals
Accommodation
After a spectacular bus journey to the Marmolada region, take a cable car ride in 3 stages to Punta Rocca, the top of the dramatic Marmolada Glacier at 3,264m. This is the only glacier of the Dolomites section of the Alps. Whilst up on the glacier, visit the WW1 museum and take in the hopefully sumptuous views. after a short walk around Lago Fedaia, you can enjoy lunch at Rifugio Marmolada.
The Marmolada cable car opening season is short so this walk may not always be possible. If this is the case then your leader will offer you an alternative walk which is equally as incredible.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
A walk from Corvara, climbing gently beneath the walls of the Sella to the Pisciadu waterfall, which plunges from a rocky gorge. Take a gondola up to the characterful ‘Jimmy’s Hut’, situated in a wonderful location at 2,222m to take in the dramatic views of the Sella Mountain Range and Val Gardena.
After lunch, there are a number of options to spend the afternoon as you find your way back to Corvara and La Villa.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
After taking the gondola up to Piz Sorega, gently ascend to arrive at Bioch for coffee. This restaurant is in a fabulous setting, with deckchairs on the grass to enable us to take in the wonderful panoramic mountain and snow-capped views. Continue along an easy ridge to the Pralongia Mountain Hut (2,157m) for a relaxed lunch in tranquil surroundings.
After descending by chairlift, it's just a short walk to Corvara. From there, you have the option to take the bus or enjoy a pleasant walk back to La Villa along the scenic riverside path.
Meals
After a breathtaking week, say goodbye and return to Venice for your flight home.
Sometimes your return flight is from Verona airport, please look at individual dates for further information.
From (GBP)£1,989
Departure dates for your selected tour
22nd Jun 2025 - 29th Jun 2025 (7 Nights)
20th Jul 2025 - 27th Jul 2025 (7 Nights)
27th Jul 2025 - 3rd Aug 2025 (7 Nights)
31st Aug 2025 - 7th Sep 2025 (7 Nights)
Fly from London to Venice Airport and return
During the week you’ll travel on foot, by local bus and local train.
Accommodation
Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.
La Villa is a compact little town that lies at an elevation of 1,433m above sea level and surrounded by the UNESCO World Heritage Pue-Odle and Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Parks. This is an ideal location for spectacular hiking, perfect for our holiday. La Villa enjoys all the facilities you might require. A bank, post office and small supermarket are all close by the hotel. The bus stop is directly across the road from the hotel, so local transport is easy to use.
We stay in the three star family run Hotel Ladinia in the centre of La Villa, a typical alpine hotel with wooden décor and beautiful flower filled window boxes, set in the centre of the mountains. The hotel facilities include a restaurant, recently refurbished spa and sauna – perfect for a relax after a days exploration!
We stay in Austrian style twin bedded rooms. Single rooms are usually double or twin bedded for sole use. Rooms are modern with wooden furnishings and contemporary chic decor. Facilities include:
Please note that twin-bedded accommodation is in ‘Austrian style’ beds with two separate mattresses and duvets on one bed frame. As is standard in this area, rooms do not have tea and coffee making facilities.
Trip Information
We still class Grade 3 as leisurely; walks are generally a little longer than grade 2, with undulations but over a longer distance. Where sightseeing distances are longer, we take a full day with opportunities to stop, rest and refuel. Generally, itineraries involve easy countryside walking with plenty of breaks.
This is a Grade 3 walking holiday where walks are between 3-5 miles and between 100-260m in ascent and descent. Several of the walks can be extended by about 2 miles for those who like a little more walking. The highest point reached on this holiday is 3264m at the Marmolada glacier. Please note that the itinerary involves the use of a few chair lifts as well as gondolas and cable cars.
Holiday Budgeting
As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.
Local Transport Costs
In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity program for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.
Currency in Italy
The currency in Italy is the Euro. You may wish to take some euro cash with you until you reach an ATM. Credit cards may not be accepted in smaller towns and rural areas.
Tipping
In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.
Your Leader
Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organized they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations. Your tour leader takes care of all the local, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.
Leaders Evening Briefing
Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.
Group Size
We believe that the best things come in small packages, and our Adagio holidays prove just that. We limit our groups to a maximum of 18 persons, plus the Adagio Leader, so that everyone has the opportunity to mix, share their love of travel and return home with new friendships. Small groups also have less detrimental local impact, allows us to use public transport on some days, eat at small local restaurants and, we believe, offers a better experience.
Getting to your Holiday
Fly from London to Venice Airport and return. On some dates flights may be from London to Verona airport and return. Airport transfers will take approximately 3 hours by private coach to La Villa to the north of Corvara.
Regional flights are offered on some dates with a combined coach transfer on arrival and departure, so there may be a wait at the airport.
During the week you'll travel on foot, by local bus and local train.
If you intend joining and leaving the party in La Villa, we assume, unless you have advised us otherwise, that you will meet and leave the party at our hotel. If this is not your intention, please let us know in writing at least 5 weeks before departure.
Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements
If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.
Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.
If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.
Although airport/station transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport/station, depending on your arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.
Please be aware that you must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight/train arrival to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point or independent travel arrangements to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.
Hotel Transfers
When you book a flight or rail inclusive holiday, transfers between the airport/station and hotel (and vv) are included. On some holidays, where we offer various flight options, the transfer vehicle may wait for all flights to land before transferring to the hotel.
Luggage Allowance & Tickets
If you're booking a flight or rail inclusive holiday, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.
Personal Details Check
To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.
Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.
You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.
General Passport Advice
It is a good idea to carry photocopies of the personal details pages of your passport page (with your photo on). Should you lose your passport, this may assist with the issue of replacement documents and your return to your home country. Passport and visa requirements can change at any time. It is your own responsibility to ensure that you inform yourself from a professionally qualified source on, and comply with, such requirements.
General travel and destination advice for UK nationals is available from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office at www.fco.gov.uk/travel and at www.gov.uk/travelaware.
Brexit Passport Advice
If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must meet the Schengen area rules.
Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:
Your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit, and the 3 months at the end of your visit may need to be within 10 years of your passport’s issue date.
Check both the issue date and the expiry date in your passport. If you renewed your passport early, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. This could affect the requirement for your passport to be less than 10 years old.
Non British Passport holders should consult the host country’s embassy for applicable passport and visa entry requirements.
The holiday is on a half board basis with breakfasts and dinners provided in the highly rated hotel restaurant.
Buffet breakfasts offer a wide selection including cereals, eggs, fruit, rolls, ham, cheese, fruit juice, yogurt, pastries and cakes.
Dinner includes soup, salad, choices of starters, choices of main dishes and a dessert. Vegetarians and those with special dietary requirements are very well catered for. Italian dishes are usually created using locally sourced fresh ingredients.
In Italy, traditional meals may include primo, il secondo, and dolce, depending on the individual restaurant. Primo can be served as an appetiser and usually consists of rich pasta, soup or risotto. The main course is called il secondo and usually includes meat, fish or vegetarian. The dolce refers to the dessert and ends a traditional Italian meal.
Lunches are not included in the cost of the holiday. They can be taken as picnics brought by local cafes, mountain huts or shops.
Footwear
Comfortable, broken in, walking boots or shoes with a good sole are recommended for this holiday. Walking shoes or other comfortable footwear will be suitable for sightseeing days.
General Kit List
Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.
If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:
This list is not exhaustive and every traveller is different and may have their own preference.
Water To Go
Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.
Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.
As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.
Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday, departing after November 1, 2023, you'll receive a complimentary Water-to-Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!
Travel Document Checklist
To ensure your holiday gets off to a good start, please make sure that you bring the following documents and information with you:
Electricity in Italy
Electricity in Italy is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found Power Plugs Sockets.
Ideal Maps & Guidebooks
Many local libraries stock a selection of travel guides and books which may offer you more information. Apart from any books available in local libraries, the internet is now an excellent resource for information about holiday destinations. You may find the below websites, books and programmes useful.
Maps of the areas we visit (1:200 000 scale) are available locally and at specialist map shops in the UK.
Tabacco Map 07 Alta Badia 1:25,000 - This map covers all walks apart from Day 5
Tabacco Map 15 Marmolada-Pelmo-Civetta 1;25,000 - Covers Day 5
Gino's Italian Escapes: Hidden Italy: Trentino Alto-Adige - Series 4 Episode 2 - Gino heads to the Dolomites on his culinary adventure
Gino's Italian Express: Dolomite Mountain Express - Series 7 Episode 5 - Gino heads to the Dolomites on his culinary adventure
Wild Escapes BBC2 - Anita Rani and JJ Chalmers travel to the Dolomites for hiking and food
Sounds of the Dolomites - Radio Times - Sounds and music capturing orchestral music and festivals in the Dolomites
The following websites have lots of information on the Dolomits and La Villa.
The Map Shop
If you cannot find the maps or books locally we recommend:
The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England
Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com
If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.
Health Advice for Italy
No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Italy.
You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK.
You may wish to consider immunisations against Tetanus and Tick-borne Encephalitis.
Further Health Advice
For further advice please visit:
You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.
GHIC / EHIC Cards
Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.
It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.
For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic
Travel Insurance
It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.
The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.
Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.
In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.
If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.
Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.
If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.
Responsible Travel
We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.
Heart and Sole
We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust
Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.
Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.
For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.
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Visas and Passports
January
Avg. Rain: 67mm
February
Avg. Rain: 62mm
March
Avg. Rain: 63mm
April
Avg. Rain: 61mm
May
Avg. Rain: 56mm
June
Avg. Rain: 47mm
July
Avg. Rain: 35mm
August
Avg. Rain: 48mm
September
Avg. Rain: 64mm
October
Avg. Rain: 89mm
November
Avg. Rain: 96mm
December
Avg. Rain: 82mm
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