Spectacular Alpine Hideaway

Transcription

1 Activity Level: Recreational Duration: 6 Days/5 Nights Spectacular Alpine Hideaway Experience the Dolomites RECOMMENDED AGE: 8+ We don t simply allow kids on trips designed for adults, we design unique trips just for families. The activities on our Dolomites Family Multi=Active trip are recommended for children age 8 years and older. Please call us for more information. The Dolomites stunning peaks have drawn foreign mountaineers for centuries, yet somehow they remain one of Italy s best kept secrets. Join us as we explore two gorgeous corners of this incredible region, taking in the silence of the trails, the dramatic, serrated mountain peaks dotting the scenery, and the warm, understated local hospitality. We begin our journey in Europe s largest alpine plateau, the Alpe di Siusi, surrounded by the South Tyrolean Dolomites and connected to the valley by a modern cableway. Vehicle access here is limited, ensuring a tranquil and off the beaten path atmosphere.we then make our way to the Alta Badia, tucked deeper into the mountain zone, and equally majestic and full of irresistible charm. Be ready to experience the area s diverse and amazing hikes, fabulous hotels and a line-up of activities that justifies all the spa- time one deserves after an invigorating day in the mountains. Call us at the journey p.2 view > / notes from the road p.5 view > / the details p.6 view > / next steps p.7 view >

2 Title. This region of Italy is renowned for boasting one Blurb of the most beautiful and varied landscapes in Europe. 2 the journey Days 1 & 2 Bolzano to Alpe di Siusi AFTER A 30 MINUTE DRIVE FROM BOLZANO, OUR ADVENTURE begins above the charming village of Siusi, an authentic alpine town in the heart of the Dolomites. Following a visit to a local farm and alpine refreshment a warm up hike leads through the town of Siusi where we will hop aboard a modern gondola which quickly delivers us up to the high alpine plateau and Alpe di Siusi (1,568m / 5,144 ), our home for the next two nights. Our route continues up the Panche delle Streghe (witches benches), a meeting point for the pagan witches who used to call this mountain home. Imparting stories of lore, we are joined by a modern day witch who will engage you and old on the remarkable tales linked to our panoramic trail. Post hike treat yourself to a dip in the hotel s indoor/outdoor pool or Jacuzzi, enjoying the dramatic view from your alpine perch. We gather together early evening over a mountain aperitivo (cocktail) and warm welcome by your hosts. Dinner follows in one of the hotel s private stube (dining rooms) where you ll be treated to their chef s exceptional cuisine which focuses on fresh seasonal products. Rise and shine for a hearty breakfast that will fuel your morning s activities. The younger set hops onto mountain bikes to explore the myriad trails as they roll their way towards the hamlet of Saltria. Here they trade their bikes for broomsticks as they embark on a mysticalthemed riverside loop walk featuring sulphuric springs, curious rock formations and other nature-based activities. Lunch is served at a nearby lodge following which the kids transfer the short distance back to the hotel for a sampling of apple strudel and alpine sweets before taking in a late afternoon slack-line training. Hikers instead begin their morning with a short shuttle to a chairlift rising to a breathtaking position overlooking rolling green pastures and the magnificent Sassolungo and Sasso Piatto mountains. The hike begins with some uphill traversing then continues along a ridge with stunning views of the quiet Duron valley surrounded by endless mountain peaks. A gentle descent winds us through a small canyon before reaching one of the local s favourite huttes (cabins) for a traditional alpine lunch. Afterwards we continue our route, taking in extraordinary views of the Sciliar peak, returning us to the hotel on foot. Following time poolside or a sunset cocktail from the terrace, a specially prepared meal on the property awaits. HOTEL Alpina Dolomites, Compatsch Located on Europe s most beautiful and expansive highaltitude plateau the Alpina Dolomites offers a perfect position to access hikes, take in spectacular views and be positively pampered in its fabulous spa. THE ACTIVITY Day 1: A 2 km (1.2 mi.) morning walk through rolling meadows plus a 4 km (2.4 mi.) loop (lunch en route) near the hotel Day 2: Kids embark on an 8 km (5 mi.) mountain bike ride then a river-side loop walk. Adults start the morning with a13km (7.8 mi.) hike with initial ascent from 2,100m to 2,300m then gentle descent to 2,015m. In the afternoon hike 5 km (3 mi.) descending to 1,885m

3 The Dolomites were named after Déodat Tancrède de Dolomieu, a French chemist and mineralogist. 3 Day 3 Colfosco This morning, parents and kids head out of the hotel for another exciting day, beginning with an adventure on two wheels of the most exhilarating kind electric assist mountain bikes! We pedal along asphalt and hard-packed dirt paths that make up this morning s route to the town of Selva. Of course, anyone keen to cruise on a traditional mountain bike, powered strictly on their own steam, can opt for that, too. Those who prefer to hike will be driven to a path through small towns to Selva, rendezvousing with the bikers mid-morning.the kids then shuttle over the Gardena pass, where they ll grab a bite to eat before heading to an adventure park featuring a high-ropes course suitable for all ages and ability levels. Meanwhile, adults board a gondola and are whisked back up to the high alpine for a glorious hike at the top of the Gardena pass, taking in spectacular views of the Sella Massif mountain. The hike continues under the Cir peaks, passing through pasture lands on a memorable traverse before reaching a mountain hut for lunch. The post-lunch hike continues along a tranquil path high above the villages of Colfosco and Corvara. Hikers who would like to descend to the Adventure Park to check out the kids actively monkeying about can do so while others can grab a recliner and enjoy the spectacular views on the terrace of our charming lodge and home for the night. Having tested their balance and maneuveured their way around the tree tops, the kids then hop on a gondola up to the lodge. Following a delicious meal prepared just for us, we ll slip on headlamps and take in a gentle evening hike under the starry sky magic. HOTEL Col Pradat Lodge, Colfosco Originally a simple mountain hut built at the base of the impressive Mount Sassongher in 1920, it is now a beautiful lodge run by the welcoming Ebner family. Charming Tyrolean styled rooms, stunning views of the Sella Massif and exceptional cuisine are sure to be highlights during your high alpine overnight. THE ACTIVITY Day 3: E-bike 16 km (9.6 mi.) to Selva on asphalt then a wide gravel track (undulating descent from 1,885m to 1,645m); We encourage parents of kids not meeting the minimum ebike height requirement to join their kids on the morning walk this day. Walk 3.- km (1.8 mi.); Afternoon hike 5 km (3 mi.) from 2,222m to 2,038m to Col Pradat. Day 4

4 The Dolomites are home to many different types of flowers. You ll spot fields of lavender crocuses, azure bluebells, indigo gentians, yellow arnica, primroses, golden buttons (trollios), red poppies and many more. 4 San Cassiano After a hearty hikers breakfast we begin our day s journey, hiking (or gondola) down to the valley up and over the plateau of Pralungià as we cross the hills on foot to our final hotel. A trail through the woods over rolling terrain leads to Hugo s baita, our lunch spot for the day. Here, we will enjoy delicious mountain specialties while drinking in 360-degree vistas of the surrounding mountains. After lunch, you can stroll down a wintertime ski run, or hop in a gondola descending to the charming town of San Cassiano and the comforts of our hotel. This evening you are on your own for dinner and your guides will be happy to make reservations for you that range from Michelin-starred dining to the Rosa Alpina s casual bar and grill, organize a fondue or share other spots to dine in San Cassiano and nearby villages buon appetito! you ll take in the fabulous views from their sunny terraces before catching the chairlift off the mountain. For the kids, today s location offers an ideal opportunity for rock climbing, assisted under the capable direction of a certified mountain guide, on the limestone pitches at the base of the Cinque Torri. In celebration of our adventures, of which there are sure to have been many, we gather for a final evening together. While the adults indulge in a wine tasting lead by the hotel s impressive sommelier, the younger set slip into aprons and chef s hats as they build their own pizzas. The kids then have the option to settle into the hotel s cinema while adults enjoy a series of plates in a private stube which everyone ultimately comes together to crank out freshly made gelato for dessert - a fitting finish to our Dolomitic exploits. Day 5 Cinque Torri On this final day in the mountains we set off for an active day, following a 25-minute shuttle to the base of the Cinque Torri, set at the heart of WWI battle lines. After a scenic chairlift ride, your guides will help identify the galleries and outposts dating back to the war in this unique open-air museum, as well as the odd chamois (wild goat) or intrepid rock climber scaling the mountain. The hiking route is rewarded with stellar views to the peak of l Averau or Nuvolau, where you can pick your own spot for lunch today, perhaps at the Averau Rifugio (a top pick for local mountain guides), or, returning to mid station, grab a quick snack at the Scoiattoli hut. In either case,

5 The Romans began making wine here between the 3rd and 5th centuries, and supposedly discovered the use of wood barrels for ageing and transporting wine. 5 HOTEL Rosa Alpina, San Cassiano Rosa Alpina has earned its place atop the Best Of lists and Michelin accolades, but what we love most about this understated retreat is its warm hospitality, a true B&R favourite. Hugo Pizzinini welcomes you to the family as soon as you cross the threshold. THE ACTIVITY Day 4: A 4-10 km (2-6 mi.) hike on forest & meadow trails with one big optional ascent and descent, going from 1,545m up to 2,080m and ending at 1,500m. The optional afternoon loop adds a gentler 6 km (4 mi.) with a steady descent. Day 5: A 6-10 km (4-6 mi.) hike on mountain trails to WWI sites and around the five towers to which the area is named. Rock climbing is also available. Day 6 After a farewell breakfast at the hotel, we take a private vehicle to airport in time for late morning connections. At the airport, you can also catch a taxi to the train station or a motoscafo (water taxi) that will deliver you to in time for lunch.

6 The Details Grappa is a specialty of the region, made from the dregs of the winemaking process, it s distilled and then flavoured with fresh fruits of the region such as peach, pear, apricot and mixed berry. 6 SWITZ. AUSTRIA Compatsch San Cassiano FRANCE Bolzano TRENTINO ALTO ADIGE Colfosco Italy Italy LOMBARDIA Mediterranean Sea 2018 Price: From $4,995 (from $900 single supplement) Single supplement is based on the most affordable rooms within B&R s allocation. Upgrades often available. Duration 6 Days / 5 Nights Start Bolzano Parkhotel Laurin 9:00am Finish s Marco Polo Airport 11:30am the details HOTEL TYPE Signature Hotels Hotels on our Signature trips are unique expressions of the region. Oftentimes that means they ve had a previous life as a monastery or a castle, but in every case it means they offer both an exceptionally comfortable stay and a taste of the region s culture. Best of all, we re friends with our hoteliers. (Translation? Preferential treatment for you.) LEVEL OF ACTIVITY Recreational This hiking trip covers a variety of terrain that at times is challenging. Paths are hard packed dirt trails with a mix of ascents and descents. Daily distances average 5 to 12 km, with some options for less (or more) challenging hikes. Hiking boots (light to medium weight) with sturdy ankle support and strong grips are highly recommended. Please note that van support is limited on this trip due to the lack of access vehicles have to the trails. MORE INFO How do I get to Bolzano? Closest airports are Innsbruck and Verona (1.5 hours by car or 2 hrs by train) followed by (3-3.5 hours by car or train with a change in Verona). If traveling by train, reservations are recommended. THE PARKHOTEL LAURIN, BOLZANO An establishment that proudly extols the virtues of art, culture and absolute comfort in all that it provides. A beloved hotel among travellers since 1910, guests will appreciate the contemporary artwork and range of architecture that features throughout, but will admire the restful character of the rooms along with Chef Manuel Astuto signature take on Mediterranean meets South Tyrolean cuisine. WHAT S INCLUDED All hotel accommodation Four lunches and four dinners Services of B&R-trained guides Services of a local mountain guide Support vehicles to assist with logistics Kids mountain bike rental Day 2 Kids and adult mountain ebike rental Day 3 (minimum height required for kids) Use of telescopic walking sticks All special events and private tours All transportation from rendezvous to drop-off All baggage transportation Detailed maps and water bottle All gratuities for baggage, porters and hotel service The itinerary information may vary slightly for your specific departure as we continuously research and develop each trip. Inclement weather may also necessitate minor alterations. Prices are per person and in USD Butterfield & Robinson Inc.