Guided group walking
7 nights,
single centre
Level: 3
Stretching
Flights
available
Operated by
Exodus Travels
Printed route
directions
The traditional village of Villabassa in South Tyrol lies close to the Austrian border, surrounded by the unmistakably jagged peaks of the Dolomites. Here, spectacular scenery meets the fiercely proud Tyrolean heritage. Our home for the week, the Hotel Adler, epitomises this, housing a wonderful spa and renowned restaurant within 400-year-old walls. The walking is diverse and memorable as we venture into the Fanes-Sennes and Dolomiti di Sesto National Parks for great views of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo and the open-air museums that dot the landscape reflect the area’s history as the frontline between Italy and the Austro-Hungarian Empire in the first world war. Fascinating, imposing, unforgettable, the Dolomites are waiting. 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. Did you know you can travel by train to this trip? Find out more here
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: 8.7mi (14km); ascent: 2,133ft (650m); descent: 837ft (255m)
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: 8.7mi-9.9mi (14km-16km); ascent: 1,969ft-2,297ft (600m-700m); descent: 1,969ft-2,297ft (600m-700m)
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)
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: 11.2mi (18km); ascent: 1,804ft (550m); descent: 3,609ft (1,100m)
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: 9.3mi (15km); ascent: 2,297ft (700m); descent: 2,625ft (800m)
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.
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £300.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into your destination with onward rail and road transfers as appropriate. To find out more about the travel options available call our sales team on 01606 720199 or email sales@headwater.com
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment. *Unfortunately, due to the airline themselves we are unable to book Ryanair.
Guided group walking
7 nights,
single centre
Level: 3
Stretching
Flights
available
Operated by
Exodus Travels
Printed route
directions
