Happy Thursday Hidden Gem Travel community! As you’re reading this newsletter, I’m in Peru scoping out the very best experiences for your next trip. If you haven’t yet been to Peru, now is the time to find out what your itinerary might include. Stay tuned for my trip report, and email me anytime to schedule a consultation.
You may be one of the many people who dream of exploring Italy. Having traveled around the country myself, I can tell you there are many wonderful regions to explore in multiple trips. Skilled itinerary design with local input from the Italians themselves is key to the very best trip and maximizing your time. This is what I do 🙂
In this newsletter, I will inspire you to consider the Dolomites region. This is timely information as the winter Olympics will be held in the Dolomites – Italian Alps – next year. AND the Dolomites are also amazing in the summer!
Interest piqued? Read on for the scoop…
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Travelers to Italy are seeking more than the great cities. More and more are craving unique and memorable experiences in unexpected places. If you’re looking for jaw-dropping scenery, with a mix of outdoor adventure and spa/wellness experiences, topped off with amazing Italian cuisine and wines, this is the trip for you.
As a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dolomites is a mountain range in northeastern Italy that wows with jagged peaks, alpine meadows, and postcard villages. In the summer, hikers enjoy trails dotted with wildflowers and the scent of pine.
Travelers usually arrive in Milan or Venice for a cultural city stop, then embark on a scenic drive into the mountains, often with a private driver-guide showing you sights along the way. Venice to the Dolomites is approximately a 3-hour drive.
💎Hidden Gem Tip: At Virtuoso Travel Week, I met with some amazing hotels and resorts in the Dolomites.
Let’s find out where is best to base your stay!
Winter or Summer?
As scenic in the summer as it is in the winter, this is an especially ideal destination for lovers of the great outdoors, including active families/couples and photography lovers.
In winter, skiers are blessed with powder and hundreds of miles of terrain. Dolomiti Super Ski is the largest ski area in the world – one pass gains you access to three Italian regions. Skiers and snow enthusiasts – consider for 2027 after the 2026 Winter Olympics!
In summer, the Dolomites are a hiker’s dream due to the incredible views, 300 days of sunshine a year, and the fresh mountain air! A favorite trail is the Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s highest alpine meadow. The hikes vary from gentle paths to extreme climbs, so there is something for everyone. Via Ferrata is a thrilling guided mountain adventure of cables, ascending ladders, tunnels and suspended bridges.
Experience Highlights
- Hiking – there are many scenic hiking trails with route maps for travelers.
- Cycling – e-bikes and mountain bikes.
- Skiing, snowboarding, and sledding.
- Meet local artisans renowned for skilled wood carving.
- Wine tasting – it’s Italy, there are vineyards everywhere!
- Helicopter tours for spectacular aerial views, even more special at sunset.
Time to Explore!
In the Dolomites, you can explore these fantastic areas:
- Bolzano – Known as the ‘Gateway to the Dolomites’ and the capital city of South Tyrol.
- Braies Lake – A turquoise-green lake famous for its breathtaking beauty.
- Cortina d’Ampezzo – Known as ‘The Pearl of the Dolomites’ with many great Michelin Star restaurants and luxury shops.
- Misurina Lake – Beautiful high-altitude lake.
- Merano – Historic spa town surrounded by mountains.
Let’s get you to the Dolomites! Reach out today 🙂
To travel is to live… here’s to late 2025 and 2026 being unforgettable and amazing years for new travel adventures! Let’s go…
Susan
