Selva DOLOMITES 2018
WELCOME TO Selva Selva sits in a dramatic valley, the Val Gardena, in the Western Dolomites in the South Tyrol region of Northern Italy. Here spectacular spires and vast plateaux of pale Dolomitic limestone, the remains of atolls formed millions of years ago in an ancient sea, contrast with the rich wildflower meadows and shady woodland. One of the nine Dolomites UNESCO world heritage sites, the Puez-Odle Nature Park, begins at the edge of the town. Marmots are common on the mountain slopes, birds such as nutcrackers and alpine chough are frequently seen, and sometimes chamois can be glimpsed in the valley behind the hotel, the Vallunga. The relative remoteness of these valleys helped to preserve their distinctive mountain culture. Local people still speak in Ladin, a language developed alongside the Roman occupation in 15 BC. Since 1948 the province has been officially tri-lingual, this is seen most clearly on the signposts which show the Ladin, German and Italian name for each destination. From the 17th Century woodcarving has been culturally significant to Val Gardena, historically it was the primary economic activity of the valley. The tradition continues with local woodcarvers producing everything from religious statues to cutting edge modern artworks. During the First World War the Dolomites formed the frontline between Italy and Austria. A railway, now a footpath and cycleway, was constructed by Russian prisoners of war and ran up the valley to supply the troops. Another legacy of this brutal period was the Via Ferrata literally Iron ways, networks of metal ladders and cables built high in the mountains to allow access to strategic positions. Today local mountain guides and specialist equipment can be hired to explore them. Outdoor activities are central to life in Val Gardena. The area is well known as a ski resort and Val Gardena has hosted FIS Ski World Cup events since 1970. In summer, the ski cable cars can be used to access the high plateau and peaks and visit chic mountain cafes or rustic mountaineering huts for refreshments. 2 Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk
ACCOMMODATION HOTEL MALLEIER Str. Cir 58 1-39048 Selva di Val Gardena (BZ) Dolomiti Tel: 0039 0471 773279 A warm welcome is assured from the friendly staff at this delightful 3-star chalet style hotel. The Hotel Malleier is set in a quiet location next to meadows on the edge of the village. It is approximately 5 minutes walk to the village centre and has direct access to many of the walks. There are excellent views of the valley and the surrounding towering mountains. Bedrooms: All 35 bedrooms have en- suite facilities, usually with both bath and shower. Television, telephone, safe deposit boxes and hairdryer are provided in all rooms. Most rooms have a balcony and also enjoy views down the valley. In common with most European hotels, tea and coffee making facilities are not available in the bedrooms but hot drinks can be bought from the bar. The hotel has asked our guests not to use heating appliances (e.g. travel kettles) in the rooms. Facilities: There is a comfortable lounge on the ground floor which has seating for around 30 guests. Adjacent to the lounge is a bar with additional seating. In front of the hotel there is a pleasant lawn with tables and chairs. In the basement there is a very modern and luxurious spa suite complete with steam bath and Finnish sauna, solarium, spa pool and fitness room; a charge is made for these facilities. There is also a dedicated boot room. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. Meals: All our holidays include breakfast and evening meal. The hotel can cater for special diets; please request these when you book and discuss with the hotel staff on arrival. Vegetarian diets are often interpreted as non- meat and fish dishes will still be served. If applicable, it should be made clear to the hotel that you require a nonmeat and non- fish diet. Breakfast: A self-service breakfast is served between 7:30 am and 10:00 am, offering a wide choice of options. This hotel asks that Gluten free guests bring their own products for breakfast only. Evening Meal: This is usually served at 7pm and consists of a fixed 4-course menu which is circulated the night before at the dinner table. Every evening there is a selection of hot vegetables as well as a plentiful salad bar. Lunch: It is possible to purchase a picnic lunch from the hotel. Alternatively it is possible to buy ingredients from local shops or on some days to eat at one of the local huts; your leaders will advise you of the options. Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk 3
Guided Walking ITINERARY A unique feature of our Guided Walking holidays is the daily choice of walks. Each evening your leaders will give a short talk about the options for the next day and answer any questions that you may have. In Selva you ll have a choice of two guided walks on each walking day. Easier Walks: 5 to 10 miles (8-16km) generally on good paths which can be rough or steep. Up to 1,500ft (450m) of ascent in a day. Please note that the itinerary outlined below is provisional and could be subject to change. For the most up to date information, please check our website. A finalised itinerary will be available at the resort and your leaders will talk every evening about the next day s walks. In Selva, we operate alternating itineraries to ensure variation for guests booking a 2-week break. Snow conditions and inclement weather may prevent access to some walks, particularly in June and late September. In addition, at these times, there is a reduced transport and lift service. With safety the overriding concern, your leaders may vary the walks or modify the programme in this leaflet. However, there are always walks that can be enjoyed and you will find compensation in the views of snow-clad mountains and the Alpine flora, even when 4 Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk Harder Walks: 5 to 12 miles (8-19km) crossing mountainous terrain with steep gradients. Up to 3,300ft (990m) of ascent in a day. it is not possible to carry out some of our walks at a high level. Your leaders will choose the best selection of walks available in the prevailing conditions and give you detailed information; Early itinerary: 2, 9 Jun & 15 Sep Itinerary 1: 16, 30 Jun, 14, 28 Jul, 11, 25 Aug, 8 Sep. Itinerary 2: 23 Jun, 7, 21 July 4, 18 Aug, 1 Sep. A finalised itinerary will be available at the resort and your leaders will talk every evening about the next day s walks.
Itinerary 1 Day 1: Arrival day Depending on your arrival time you may have the opportunity to see a little of Selva before your evening meal. On the first evening our leaders will explain more about our walks and there will be plenty of time to meet with your fellow guests. Day 2: Ciampinoi and the south side of Val Gardena Easier Walk: From the top of the Ciampinoi lift, we descend, traverse and gently ascend in the foothills of the spectacular Sassolungo massif, eventually arriving at a viewpoint at Mont de Sëra. Taking a chairlift down to Monte Pana, we then return to Selva on a lower traversing path. 5 miles (8km) with 600ft (180m) of ascent and 1,500ft (450m) of descent. Harder Walk: Our walk traverses below the spectacular cliffs of the Sassolungo (after a gondola ride to get close!), and to a true mountaineers refuge nestled in stunning scenery. The descent is steady, but quite long, to Monte Pana from where we return to Selva on a lower balcony path. 10 miles (16km) with 1,300ft (390m) of ascent and 3,500ft (1,050m) of descent. Day 3: The start of the valley Easier Walk: We begin in Castelrotto at the entrance to the Val Gardena and our walk heads along to the small wooded Brembach valley then towards the viewpoint at Tamines Hof. We then take a traversing path along to Tagusa and finally back to Castelrotto. 8 miles (13km) with 1,400ft (420m) of ascent. Harder Walk: This is a varied walk starting at Passo Pinei, mostly up, via the Schnürlsteig to the plateau summit of Puflatsch or Bulacia, along to the Hexensessel (witch s seat) and down to the Schafstall Hut ending at Café Baumwirt. 7 miles (11km) with 2,400ft (720m) of ascent and 3,100ft (930m) of descent. Day 4: Corvara or the Vallunga Easier Walk: Corvara is in the next valley and affords a complete change of scenery and even flowers. Our walk uses a gondola to get onto a broad ridge with fantastic views, and welcoming cafés, before gently descending back to Corvara. 7 miles (11km) with 800ft (240m) of ascent and 2,300ft (690m) of descent. Harder Walk: This is a strenuous walk along the U-shaped Vallunga, and then up to the plateau above. The scenery and terrain is ever-changing, and the objective, the Puez mountain hut on the long distance Alta Via 2 route, is a welcome sight and a definite refreshment stop. Fortunately, the paths, although often steep, are well engineered. 11 miles (17.5km) with 3,200ft (960m) of ascent. Day 5: Free day Each week there is a free day when no guided walks are offered. This is an ideal opportunity to relax around the hotel, walk independently or visit local places of interest. Some options for your free day may include: Local walks: There is a wealth of walks in the Gardena Valley and your leaders will be happy to recommend options if you would like to walk independently on your free day. Ortisei: Ortisei is the largest of the towns in the Gardena Valley and can be walked to or easily reached by bus from Selva. It has a lively, cobbled, pedestrianised centre, with cafes, a museum, churches and an art gallery. It is also the starting point for a number of lifts which will take you high into the mountains, perhaps exploring an area not visited during your walks. Bolzano: Bolzano is an interesting town that is the administrative centre of the South Tyrol region. There is a good bus service from Selva, taking approximately 1½ hours. Some of the town s interesting historic buildings include the 14th century Franciscan church and the Chiesa dei Domenican monastery, which has 15th century frescoes. Bolzano s main attraction is the fascinating Ice Man museum which contains the preserved body of a prehistoric man and his artefacts that were found high on an alpine glacier. There are frequently long queues to enter the museum, but our previous guests have highly recommended a visit. Bressanone: Bressanone is another interesting historic town with arcaded streets. The Duomo in the main square dates from the 13th century and its 14th century cloisters are decorated with medieval frescoes. The nearby Bishop s Palace now houses the Diocesan Museum. Local information website: For information on Selva please visit www.val.gardena.com Day 6: High above Selva Easier Walk: The modern Dantercëpies gondola takes us to the start of a balcony path with changing but stunning views towards the huge Sella massif and a visit to one of the lovelier mountain huts en route. 6 miles (9.5km) with 1,400ft (420m) of ascent. Harder Walk: A true mountain day stretching out on progressively steeper paths onto the Stevia plateau towering high above the hotel. A mountain hut teetering above the Vallunga greets us, followed by a spectacular descent down an apparent cliff and a walk back to the hotel. 7 miles (11km) with 3,200ft (960m) of ascent. Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk 5
Day 7: The Cislesalp or the Val de Chedul Easier Walk: After an impressive ride on a duo of lifts we arrive high on the mountainside with views to match. Soon we enter the awesome Puez Odles Natural Park unspoilt by man, frequented by marmots and with meadows covered in interesting flowers. A traditional mountain hut awaits before we descend. 7 miles (11km) with 600ft (180m) of ascent and 3,400ft (1,020m) of descent Harder Walk: First a balcony path with spectacular views of the Sella, then we walk into the Edelweiss valley, next the incredible Karst moonscape of the Puez plateau and finally a long descent down the unspoilt Val de Chedul back to the hotel. This is a stunning but tough walk. 11 miles (17.5km) with 2,500ft (750m) of ascent and 4,400ft (1,320m) of descent. Day 8: Departure Day Free day for guests staying 14 nights. Itinerary 2 Day 1: Arrival day See itinerary 1. Day 2: The north side of Val Gardena Easier Walk: We visit three saints on this undulating walk down the valley, the towns of St Cristina and St Ulrich (also known as Ortisei) and the oldest church in the valley, St Jakob. 8 miles (13km) with 700ft (210m) of ascent and 1,900ft (570m) of descent. Harder Walk: This is a more energetic and higher exploration of the meadows on the north side of the Val Gardena which still gives opportunities to stride through meadows, visit a mountain hut and enjoy great views. 9 miles (14.5km) with 2,300ft (690m) of ascent. Day 3: The Alpe de Siusi or Monte Pic summit Easier Walk: The Alpe de Siusi is a massive high meadow with extensive views and fantastic flowers, particularly in spring and summer. As we promenade around the Alpe, there are plenty of potential café stops. 6 miles (9.5km) with 1,100ft (330m) of ascent. Harder Walk: We can see Monte Pic from the hotel, an achievable and satisfying summit. This route starts from the Seceda lift middle station, traverses the mountain, then goes up its west ridge and down its north ridge before returning to the Col Raiser gondola for the descent. 7 miles (11km) with 2,900ft (870m) of ascent. Day 4: Sassolungo and Sasso Platto: Beneath or around them Easier Walk: At the top of the mighty Ciampinoi lift, we can survey virtually all of the Val Gardena and beyond. Walking through dramatic mountain scenery, including 6 Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk the City of Stones, we have the opportunity to take a lift to the lofty Toni Demetz Hut. A steady varying descent through meadows and villages brings us back to Selva. 8 miles (13km) with 400ft (120m) of ascent and 2,700ft (810m) of descent. Harder Walk: A classic walk of the Dolomites, a circumnavigation of Sassolungo and Sasso Piatto. 10 miles (16km) with 2,300ft (690m) of ascent. Day 5: Free day See itinerary 1 Day 6: Rasciesa, ridgeline views or a high pass Easier Walk: The funicular railway gives swift access to the distinctive Rasciesa meadows high above Ortisei. We follow a circuit taking in the Chapel of St Croce, an easy summit with views to the Austrian mountains and a high pass before either descending through woodland to the Seceda gondola or returning to the funicular. 9 miles (14.5km) with 1,200ft (360m) of ascent and 2,300ft (690m) of descent. Harder Walk: At the top of the funicular railway the walk heads through the meadows to a steep, rocky, wellengineered pass through to the high meadows above Seceda and a walk back to the hotel. 10 miles (16km) with 2,000ft (600m) of ascent and 3,700ft (1,110m) of descent. Day 7: Vallunga, Sas Ciampac and the Puez Hut Easier Walk: This is a perennial favourite with guests as it visits the delightful Vallunga (a long glacial valley) which is part of the local Natural Park. It starts with the Way of the Cross and its interesting wood carvings, and ends with a tiny chapel adorned with antique frescoes. In between, the walk can be varied to extend or shorten it. 9 miles (14.5km) with 1,500ft (450m) of ascent. Harder Walk: Our walk takes us to a lonely but spectacular summit, Sas Ciampac, which is off the beaten track and has amazing views. This is quite a tough walk in all respects, but the rewards of exploring this naturally beautiful mountainous plateau make the effort worthwhile as does the visit to the welcoming Puez mountain hut. 11 miles (17.5km) with 2,400ft (720m) of ascent and 4,700ft (1,410m) of descent. Day 8: Departure Day Free day for guests staying 14 nights. In the evenings: The friendly atmosphere of our holidays continues into the evening. We ll enjoy a leisurely meal and then you may also like to join your leader for an evening stroll, listen to local musicians, relax with a book in a quiet lounge or enjoy a drink at the bar with your fellow walkers talking about your day.
TRANSFER INFORMATION If you have booked your holiday with flight you will arrive at Verona Airport. From the UK we offer flights from London Gatwick and Manchester which may arrive at different times. Please note that no meals are provided on most European flights, although some airlines may offer a small snack. Where possible you will be met as you enter the arrivals hall by an HF Holidays leader. Your leader may be on the same flight as you or may arrive on another flight. Occasionally we will ask our transfer coach company to meet you. The driver will be in the arrivals hall holding an HF Holidays sign. The onward journey to Selva by coach takes approximately 3 hours. For independent travellers: For guests who have booked their holiday without flight HF Holidays can help you to reach the hotel in the following ways: HF Holidays transfer coach from Verona airport. These are timed to meet the HF Holidays flights (provisional flight times can be found on www.hfholidays.co.uk or by calling (0)20 8732 1220). Cost per single journey is 29.. Transfers and taxis must be pre-booked. If you have not already booked your transfer or taxi please call +44 (0)20 8732 1220. Airport parking and accommodation If you require airport parking or accommodation before your flight, we recommend our partner Holiday Extras. Call 0871 360 2750 and quote HX031 or book online at holidayextras.co.uk/hfholidays Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk 7
WALKING INFORMATION Your walking leaders: HF Holidays leaders are a pivotal feature of our Guided Walking holidays. During the day they will guide you on the walks in a caring and considerate way, showing you places of interest en route. All our leaders have been selected on an intensive residential course so you can relax and enjoy your holiday knowing that you are in safe hands. Our leaders welcome your comments on the holiday survey; constructive suggestions for things that they might do differently are very helpful. We take pride in the quality of our holidays and work closely with all our providers to ensure our holidays meet your expectations. If for any reason you are not satisfied with any element of your holiday, our leaders are the best people to help. Maps: Your leaders will of course carry all the maps and detailed walk instructions needed for the walks. The maps available for this area are Tabacco series Val Gardena/Gröden Alpe de Siusi/Seiseralm (05) 1:25,000 (which covers most walks), and Alta Badia/Hochabtei Livinallongo (07) 1:25,000. Alternatively the less recently updated Kompass map Grôden / Val Gardena, Sella, Canazei (616) 1:25,000 covers all the walks on one map. Maps can be obtained by mail order from The Map Shop, Tel: 0800 0854080 or visit www.themapshop.co.uk Children: We welcome unaccompanied children of 14 or over on our walks on the basis that they can take full responsibility for themselves. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult. WALKING SAFETY Hydration: In warm weather it is very important to keep hydrated. You will need to carry water with you on walks, more during hot weather or on more demanding walks. One good way of hydrating is to use a hydration pack which allows drinking without constant stopping. This can then be filled up from additional water sources as required. Insurance: Insurance is a condition of booking. Therefore if you have not already arranged insurance, it is imperative that you do so, and advise us of the insurance company and policy number. 8 Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk We have negotiated special holiday insurance and full details of this cover can be found in our brochure or at hfholidays.co.uk. There is no extra charge for pre-existing illnesses. If you would like to purchase insurance from us please call us on 020 8732 1220 or email holidayservices@hfholidays.co.uk. Even with an EHIC card, medicines and out-patient treatment normally have to be paid for at the time and the costs reclaimed afterwards details are available at dh.gov.uk/travellers. Therefore insurance is extremely important, as is access to emergency money, preferably a credit card. WHAT TO WEAR & BRING To enjoy your walking comfortably and safely, it is essential that your footwear, clothing and equipment are suitable for the conditions likely to be encountered. Changeable weather is possible throughout the year, so our advice is to come prepared for all eventualities: comfortable outdoor clothing waterproof jacket and overtrousers ankle supporting footwear with non-slip soles small rucksack water bottle (at least 2 litres, more for hot climates) and a thermos flask if you wish sunhat, sun cream and sunglasses In addition to the above, the following are recommended to all walkers, and are essential for mountainous and hilly areas: walking boots spare pullover or fleece hat and gloves spare high-energy food e.g. chocolate bar or Kendal mint cake torch You may also wish to consider bringing: walking pole(s) many guests find these useful, particularly for descents camera personal first aid kit Footwear: We recommend wearing walking boots on all our walks, as these provide the best ankle support and grip. Modern approach shoes offer appropriate levels of grip and may be worn on some low level walks, but users should be aware that they offer less ankle support. Lightweight trainers, denim jeans and waterproof capes are not recommended for any walks.
HOLIDAY TIPS Language: Although in Italy, German is also widely spoken here. Ladin (an ancient Alpine language) is spoken locally as well. Currency: Euro Changing money: There are several ATM machines in Selva where you can obtain money. Electricity: 220 Volt AC with round two pin plugs; you will need an adaptor for any appliances brought from the UK. Tap water: Considered safe to drink, but if you prefer, bottled mineral water can be purchased from the hotel or local supermarkets. Telephone code: Unlike most countries, when you call an Italian landline telephone number from the UK or a mobile phone you dial the country code: To dial an Italian number 0039, and then the number including the leading zero. eg +39 045 8095666. Confusingly, for Italian mobile phones you dial the country code (+39) and then the mobile number excluding the leading zero eg +39 335 625 2278. Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk 9
RECOMMEND A FRIEND AND SAVE 50 Do you know someone who would enjoy our holidays as much as you do? Invite them to book a holiday and you ll receive 50! If you recommend HF Holidays to a friend who subsequently makes their first ever booking with us, we will give you 50 off your next holiday for each person recommended. Plus, as a welcome, we will also give your recommended friend or friends 50 per person off their holiday, meaning savings for everyone! Claim your 50 in three easy steps When your friend books a holiday, ask them to mention at time of booking your name and address. If they have never travelled with us before, we will give them a discount of 50 per person. We will send you a 50 voucher off a future HF Holidays break for each friend you have recommended. Terms & conditions apply, visit hfholidays.co.uk/raf for details. PATHWAYS FUND Last year guests donated 19,500 to our Pathways Fund and we spent 25,000 on projects. For more information on the projects the Pathways Fund has supported, plus how to donate, please visit hfholidays.co.uk/pathways HF Holidays continues to work in partnership with the Family Holiday Association to provide Feel Good Breaks designed to reward families who could not otherwise afford it with the gift of a break in the outdoors and the chance to spend quality time together. Help us continue this work by donating to the Pathways Fund. 10 Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk JOIN US TODAY AND BENEFIT TOMORROW HF Holidays is the only UK holiday provider that s a co-operative. We re owned by our members who help shape our business for future generations. Join our award-winning and sociably responsible society that s passionate about helping others to enjoy holidays in beautiful countryside. For a minimum purchase of 100 1 shares you can benefit from: Members loyalty scheme earn points on your holidays and use as a discount on your next holiday Member-only events and holidays Members come first with advance registration for the holiday you want 10% discount at our country house bars 15% discount at Cotswold Outdoor 15% discount at Rohan 25% discount at Hi-Tec Annual interest on your shares ALREADY A MEMBER? There are many ways for you to further your support: Help choose our Board Attend member events Encourage others to join us Increase your shares at any time Top up to 1,000 shares to become an investment member with enhanced benefits Give membership as a gift To join or increase your investment call our Membership team on 0208 732 1290, email membership@hfholidays.co.uk or visit hfholidays.co.uk/membership
linger a little LONGER If you enjoyed your holiday in Selva, we recommend our holiday at Weidach, on Austrian s Seefeld Plateau, which is carpeted in colourful flowers. The tranquil valley offers a variety of gentle Alpine walks. Two weeks or more Make the most of your break and enjoy a longer holiday either two weeks of walking at one resort or by combining complementary holidays, such as Sorrento on the Neapolitan coastline and Altamura, in the undiscovered region of Puglia. We arrange the transfers between the resorts so that you don t have to. See our brochure or website for more information. Self-guided Walking For those who prefer to explore independently, we recommend our Self-guided Walking holidays. In selected European destinations you can discover unspoiled scenery, historic sites and the local culture at your own pace by following our carefully planned walking routes. Leisure Activities We offer a range of Leisure Activities holidays at some of our European destinations, including Discovery or Garden Tours, Photography, Painting, or Yoga. Worldwide From Alaska to Australia our Worldwide Journeys invite you to explore world famous destinations, and some lesser known gems, on six continents including Europe. SAVE ON OUTDOOR CLOTHING From time to time our outdoor clothing partners have special offers for our guests. Visit hfholidays.co.uk/partnerships to see the current offers. Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk 11
Contact details HF Holidays Ltd Catalyst House 720 Centennial Court Centennial Park Elstree Borehamwood, WD6 3SY hfholidays.co.uk For any questions before your holiday, we re here to help, so please contact us on: 0345 470 7558 (local rate) +44 (0)20 8732 1250 (from outside the UK) Monday-Friday: 9am-7pm. Email: info@hfholidays.co.uk Emergency contact details: In all instances during your holiday, your first point of contact should be our HF Holidays leaders. If for any reason this is not possible, HF Holidays emergency contact details are as above or between the hours of Friday 7pm to Monday 9am are: +44 (0)7918 737777 or emergency@hfholidays.co.uk 12 Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk