HIGHLIGHTS HIKING ITALY'S NORTHERN ALPS JULY 7-14, 2018 TRIP SUMMARY Hiking through a diverse landscape of dramatic spires, rugged massifs, and towering walls Experiencing the culture and cuisine of the Italian Cortina Dolomites and the Austrian Alta Badia Learning more about World War I in a visceral way Wandering though small villages and chic ski towns Phone: 877-439-4042 Outside the US: 410-435-1965 Fax: 410-435-3084 Email: info@goodadventure.com
TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: Jul 7-14, 2018 Location: Northern Alps, Italy Cost: $2,895.00 Activities: Hiking Arrive: At the Venice Airport (VCE) about 1:30 pm or our hotel in Cortina at 5:00 pm Depart: Leave early morning for flights out after 11:00 am TRIP OVERVIEW Italy's northern Alps, also known as the Dolomites, are unique among mountain ranges. Composed largely of highly erodible dolomitic limestone, the area is known for its many sheer rock walls, fantastic spires, and rugged massifs, as well as picturesque villages, excellent hiking trails, and rolling green meadows. It is also quite multicultural: much of it was part of Austria's South Tirol prior to World War I and this history is reflected in the culture and cuisine. On this hiking trip we will hike from one valley to another, allowing us to explore both the area surrounding Cortina d'ampezzo and Alta Badia with their distinct cultures, as our luggage is transported by van. Maximum group size: 12 RATING This trip is an excellent choice for women in very good physical condition with some prior hiking experience. We have rated this trip a 5 as we will hike 5 to 8 hours a day with significant elevation gain and loss on several days, including 2 days where we will be carrying what we need for the night. You should be free of significant knee problems and fear of heights or exposure. Prior to beginning the trip, participants should be engaged in aerobic conditioning for at least 40-50 minutes 4-5 times a week. Additional endurance exercise (e.g. going for a 2-hour hike once a week) and/or strength training is usually required. Rating: 1 2 3 4 [5]. WHAT'S INCLUDED A UIAGM-certified mountain guide and an Adventures in Good Company guide Seven nights lodging All breakfasts and dinners from dinner on July 7 through breakfast on July 14 All ground transportation in Italy, including public and private bus, including transfer to and from the Venice airport on the first and last days Luggage transfer What's not included: Travel to and from Italy, lunches, guide gratuities, alcoholic beverages, and travel insurance. For some lunches we'll buy picnic food and other times we'll stop at local rifugios.
OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests. D A Y 1 JULY 7, SATURDAY Our trips starts about 1:30pm in the Venice airport (VCE) where we will meet to catch the bus for the 2 hour trip to Cortina D'Ampezzo and the start of the trip. After getting settled in we may have time to walk around town before meeting at 5pm for introductions and a trip orientation before going out for our Welcome Dinner. Cortina, home of the 1956 Winter Olympics, is best known as a chic ski town. However, it is still quite lively in the summer, with lots of shops, restaurants, and an active nightlife. Overnight Cortina. D D A Y 2 JULY 8, SUNDAY Our hiking trip starts with one of the iconic sites and hikes of the Dolomites: the Tre Cime di Laveredo ("three peaks of Lavaredo") circuit hike. These three jagged limestone spires are one of the most recognizable sights here and the hiking is classic Dolomites: alpine meadows, scree, rocky paths, and outstanding views. After transferring to the Auronzo Rifugio, our hike starts along a wide gravel mule track (this entire area is full of World War I history, including old tracks, trenches, roads, and barricades) that passes beneath the three peaks on the way to Rifugio Lavaredo and then onto Lago di Cengia. The track now becomes a path and zig zags steeply up to Forcella Pian de Cengia, a saddle with breathtaking views of the entire Tre Scarperi range. The path then traverses a scree slope before a short climb up a rocky outcrop brings you to Rifugio Locatelli. Both the timing and the views make this the perfect place to stop to enjoy lunch. After rest and refreshment, we return to our starting point on a different path, this one traversing the rolling Pian de Rin basin before the easy climb up to Forcella Col di Mezzo, with more sweeping views over the Cadini, Sorapiss and Marmarole range, before returning to Rifugio Auronzo. 8 miles, 2000 ft. ascent, about 6 hours hiking. Overnight Cortina. B, D
D A Y 3 JULY 9, MONDAY Leaving behind the glitz of Cortina, today we carry what we need for a night as we set off for Fanes-Sennes-Braies National Park. Starting in Fiames (a short bus ride from Cortina), we switchback up through the woods beneath Col Rosa and then descend to the Fanes River, where we cross on the Ponte Outo (high bridge). We then follow the path upriver to the area called Altiplano Fanes. This is a very popular backcountry skiing area and wintertime ski trails transform into great hiking trails. Our destination is Rifugio Fanes (6,760'), a mountain hotel that has been serving up good food and lively conversation for almost 85 years, and a welcoming place to end our day. Unless, of course, you still want some more hiking; and then a late afternoon hike up to Paso San Antonio ridge may be the way to top it off. 7.5 miles, 2800 feet ascent, about 5 hours hiking. Overnight Rifugio Lavarella. B, D D A Y 4 JULY 10, TUESDAY We continue our journey over to the Val Badia today. Located in the South Tyrol, this area was part of Austria before World War I, and the mix of Italian and Austrian culture manifests itself in the food, architecture, and language. While Italian is the predominant language in Cortina, here Ladino, which comes from the Romanash language, is more common. Many trail signs are written in Ladino, German, and Italian, emphasizing the truly rich multicultural nature of this area. Leaving the rifugio, we'll spend the morning hiking across the Altopiano di Fanes with its glorious views of the western Dolomites, including Marmolada, the highest peak in the region (11,024'). We'll hike uphill from the Rifugio toward Forcella del Lago (8,170'), before dropping 2,500' to Capanna Alpina. We'll stop here for lunch before continuing our descent into the mountain town of San Cassiano. From here we can take a bus to Corvara, or we can take advantage of the lift system. If we choose the latter, we'll take the lift up to Piz Sorega and then hike on a wide ridge trail with views in all directions. After stopping for refreshments at Rifugio Bioch, we'll then hike another hour down to the town of Corvara, our base for the next 2 days of hiking. There are several options today to make the day shorter; this itinerary is 11 miles, 1,400' ascent/4,000' descent, about 7 hours of hiking. Overnight Corvara B, D
D A Y 5 JULY 11, WEDNESDAY We spend today hiking in the Sella Massif, a fortress-shaped mountain group best known for Piz Boe, its highest peak. We'll gain initial elevation without any effort as we transfer to Passo Pordoi to begin our hike along the southern face of the massif. Our trail initially switchbacks up to Forcella Pordoi, and from there we start the rolling traverse on a rocky path across the southern face. There are, as always, spectacular views of the surrounding mountains: Civetta, Marmolada and the Sassolungo mountains. We'll reach the Rifugio Franz Kostner in time for lunch. From here your choice about how to get back to Corvara will depend on how your legs are feeling: you can either walk back down to Corvara by way of Lake Boe, take 2 lifts, or take one lift and walk the other section. If you walk the entire way: about 7 miles, 1,000' ascent/3,000' descent, about 5 hours of hiking. Overnight Corvara B, D D A Y 6 JULY 12, THURSDAY Today we hike in one of the other Val Badia massifs: Parco Naturale Puez- Odle. Starting in the nearby town of Colfosco, our path is initially a wide track before crossing the valley and starting to climb more steeply up to Rifugio Puez. After lunch our hike takes us up and over the Col dala Sone and across the Gherdenacia Plateau to the hut. The path then descends steeply to Sponata, where the chairlift can save our knees from the final descent into La Villa. About 7 miles, 3,100' ascent/3,000' descent, about 5 hours of hiking. Overnight Corvara B, D D A Y 7 JULY 13, FRIDAY Returning today to the Cortina side of the Dolomites, we'll take time learn a bit more WWI history, visiting a small museum and then exploring one of the most interesting remnants of WW I, the Lagazuoi galleries and tunnels. These are the most famous, well-reconstructed and interesting of the WW I bunker ruins and tunnels, leftover from the Italian and Austrian armies' bitter contest. Transferring to Passo Falzarego, we'll start with a visit to a museum with lots of artifacts from the war. We'll then walk over to the cable car station. The cable car is very steep with fantastic views the whole way, ending at the top where we can visit the reconstructed bunkers and have a snack at Lagazuoi Rifugio. We will then descend partway down the reconstructed tunnels, just far enough to get a sense of how challenging it was to live in and guard them. We'll then take the cable car back to Passo Falzarego and from here we'll take a bus and return to Cortina for the night. Whether or not you will be leaving the next day or staying on for our 'Via Ferrata' option, we'll share a celebration dinner. About 1 hour of hiking. Overnight Cortina B, D
D A Y 8 JULY 14, SATURDAY You are free to leave anytime this morning after breakfast. We'll make sure you know the transportation options back to Venice if you choose to spend the weekend there. B But if you want to try one of the experiences for which the Dolomites are known, a via ferrata, then plan on staying another day. We're happy to arrange this and lodging for everyone who is interested. On a via ferrata, every step is safeguarded as you progress, always clipped in to a sturdy cable using climbing harnesses, slings and steel carabiners. You experience what rock climbers or mountain goats feel as you make your way up a mountain that you would never want to go up without some protection! ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE 1. If you are arriving on the first day of the trip, July 7, 2018 and planning on joining the group shuttle, you will be flying into the Venice Airport (VCE) and meeting in the Arrival Hall near the information desk by 2pm. The group will be talking the Cortina Express bus to Cortina-Ampezzo. 2. If you are arriving early and returning to the Venice Airport to join the group for the group shuttle, please arrange transportation to insure your timely arrival at the Venice Airport arrivals hall on July 7 by 2pm. 3. If you are not planning on joining the group shuttle but will be making your way to Cortina independently, please plan to meet at the trip hotel in the lobby at 5:00 pm on July 7. If you would like help with any travel plans we recommend our travel agent Barbara Nelson, Scan East West Travel, at bnelson@scaneastwest.com or call 206-395-7836. ACCOMMODATIONS We will stay 3 nights each in Cortina and Corvara in comfortable B&Bs in twin rooms with ensuite bathrooms. We will spend one night in a mountain hut. Like all mountain huts, while we will be sleeping in twin-bedded rooms, the bathrooms are in the hallway. Vegetarian (and vegan) options for this trip are available although variety of meals may be limited; if you are concerned about having enough protein during your trip, please bring some plant-based protein sources such as nut butter, instant dried hummus, or high-protein energy bars. If you cannot eat gluten or if you have other dietary restrictions, you will need to bring some supplemental food with you. Please call the office so we can help you plan.
WEATHER The weather in the Dolomites is truly typical mountain weather and always has an element of unpredictability. You can expect a mix of warm sunny days punctuated by some rainy, cooler weather. Temperatures in July around Cortina can range from lows in the upper 40's to highs in the mid to upper 60's. You can expect slightly cooler temperatures the higher in elevation you are. Great hiking weather! TRAVEL INSURANCE WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use 20-0016 as your location number on the Get A Quote page.
PACKING LIST FOOTWEAR 1 pair of (lightweight to midweight) hiking boots (with good ankle support 1 pair of comfortable shoes for general use 2-3 pairs of hiking socks (wool or synthetic equivalent: Smartwool, Thorlo, Darn Tough) CLOTHING 1-2 pair of comfortable synthetic long (3/4) pants for hiking - zip-offs work well 1 pair of shorts (lightweight and quick drying) 2-3 synthetic or lightweight merino wool T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts 1 lightweight, long-sleeved shirt for hiking/sun protection - button up front is the best 1 lightweight fleece/down pullover/vest 1 medium weight fleece/down jacket 1 pair lightweight top and bottom long underwear - silk, wool or synthetic equivalent 1 pair wool, Capilene, or Polartec gloves 1 warm/lightweight wool or fleece hat 1 buff 1 rain jacket and rain pants waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex Underwear/nightwear 1 2 changes of casual clothes to wear at end of day EQUIPMENT/ESSENTIALS Passport and a photocopy of your passport 1 daypack (see notes on packing list for recommended capacity) 1 pair Trekking poles (required) Rain/Pack cover Capacity to carry 2/3 liters of water (Please see Notes on Packing List) Sunglasses (100% UV protection) w/retention strap insect repellant Small headlamp or flashlight 1 2 bandanas Ear plugs (for a good night s sleep!) Wristwatch/travel alarm clock 1-2 bandannas TOILETRIES (small everything) Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, hand sanitizer, shampoo, contact lens paraphernalia, sanitary supplies Sunscreen and lip protection with sunblock of at least SPF 15 Personal first aid/patch kit - Band-Aids, 1 safety pin, moleskin, Compeed (or blister bandages), ibuprofen, any personal medications Please note: Individuals who have had or have the potential for a severe allergic reaction to insect stings, specific foods or medications must bring an epi-pen. Please consult your physician and tell your guide. OPTIONAL Small journal and pen Camera and film/memory card Favorite snack(s) Electrical adaptor/converter type F and/or L Wash cloth (often European linens do not include a wash cloth)
NOTES ON PACKING Adventures in Good Company's packing list covers everything you need to assure your safety and comfort. You may not use everything you bring; however, you need to come prepared for all possible weather conditions. At the same time, you must be able to carry your own luggage, sometimes up and down stairs. Daypacks: Your daypack should be large enough to hold the following items: 1 2 liters of water, rain gear, lunch/snacks (for the day), sun screen, warm layer (fleece pullover or vest), personal first aid kit, lightweight gloves, warm hat and personal items such as camera, etc. We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between 1800 and 2400 cubic inches with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps, and lifters. Line your daypack with a durable plastic bag to keep your belongings dry, or have an elasticized pack cover that fits snuggly over it. Before you leave home check to be sure that it is comfortable to wear all day and has sufficient space for all of your items. Note: Fanny-packs and hydration packs are not large enough to hold all of the items you will need for the day. Pack Cover: These are waterproof/resistant, usually elasticized covers designed to go over your backpack and keep both the pack and its contents dry in case of inclement weather. Pack covers are sized. If you are purchasing a pack cover be sure to either take your pack with you or know the size cover you need. Many daypacks do come with built in pack covers. An alternative to purchasing a pack cover is to use a heavy-duty, plastic bag to line your pack to protect the contents from rain your pack however will get wet using this method. Purchasing a pack cover is highly recommended. Footwear: Well-fitting, sturdy boots or trail shoes are very important to your safety and enjoyment. If you plan to buy new boots, break them in by wearing them around town and taking some short hikes before your trip. For general hiking, lightweight or midweight cordura or leather boots with a Vibram sole work well. If you have weak ankles or are recovering from an ankle injury, get boots that come above the ankle you ll find that this will give you more support in uneven or slippery terrain. Remember to waterproof your boots before the trip. Even boots billed as waterproof need to be treated with a waterproofing product. Clothing: The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. NO COTTON for your active wear! It should all be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends. Layering is the most practical and efficient method of insulating the body. Several layers of varied weight materials provide better insulation than one thick Layer of clothing. Also, adding or subtracting layers allows you to adjust to the temperature at your particular level of activity. Rain Gear: You will need a parka or jacket made of a coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex. Be sure it keeps water out. Before making this important purchase, be sure that it fits you properly. It should be large enough to fit over all your layers. In particular, the hood needs to be effective. It should shield your face from the rain and turn with your head. Movement of your arms must not interfere with the hood. Put on your daypack; can you still raise your arms? Your wind/rain pants should be comfortable, allow enough room for your layers, and permit free movement of your legs (for example, can you crouch comfortably?). Partial or full-length leg zippers are useful for easily putting your pants on over your boots. An inexpensive plastic poncho will both leak and tear easily and is not recommended. Hydration: Being able to easily access your water without assistance, so that you can drink frequently, is important to your safety and enjoyment. One method is to have a water bottle attached to your waist strap. Another option is to use a HYDRATION SYSTEM such as CamelBak, Platypus, and MSR bladder bags, which are collapsible water bags with a hose attachment that you drink from. The bags fit inside or outside your pack with the hose positioned over your shoulder so that you can access your water as you hike. Bladder bags can hold 1-3 liters of water. Personal First Aid Kit: Bring a small first aid kit with familiar medicine and first aid supplies you might need. Recommendations include the following: blister or foot remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small role of duct tape (always useful!), remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles or joints. The guides will have a first aid kit but having what you know works well for you is a good idea.
Trekking Poles: Trekking poles are required for this triptrekking poles contribute to your safety by improving your balance and stability, and to your health by saving stress on your hips and knees. If you are not familiar with trekking poles, read this blog post that addresses the most commonly asked questions: http://blog.adventuresingoodcompany.com/blog-women-travel/bid/154714/trekking-poles-for-hiking-trips-the-4-mostcommon-questions.