Verona and Dolomites Adventure

Day 1  Verona      
Arrive into Verona, a beautiful town in Italy’s Veneto region, oft described as the ‘city of love’. At arrivals, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel.

Day 2  Verona      
After a leisurely start to your day, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Listed city, starting off at the impressive Roman amphitheatre, overlooking Piazza Bra, which dates to the 1^st century and is the third largest in the world. Put yourself in the shoes of a Roman-era spectator and gain an awesome perspective by climbing up the tiered seating areas of the arena. Later, admire the balcony and statue of Juliet at the gothic ‘Casa di Giulietta’ - said to have inspired Shakespeare.    

Day 3  Verona      
Start today with a scenic stroll over the grand Ponte Pietro, under which the Adige River flows, before climbing up to the medieval fortress of Castel San Pietro, offering unparalleled views over the rooftops of Verona from its terraces. Reward yourself with an authentic pizza at Piazza delle Erbe, the city’s bustling market square, where you can find a multitude of inviting cafes and restaurants. Afterwards, perhaps pick up a few souvenirs from the artisan market stalls.    

Days 4-6  Verona to Val Gardena  
Collect your vehicle from the train station and begin the scenic journey to the stunning Italian Alps, universally recognised as offering some of the most striking scenery in Europe. Val Gardena is known for offering some of the Dolomites most admired hiking routes, featuring jaw-dropping cliffs, spectacular flora and charming villages. Take advantage of the numerous cable cars transporting you up to 2000-3000 metres above sea level, where you will find a plethora of well-marked trails. If you are feeling adventurous, why not opt for one of the nine Via Ferrate on offer in the Dolomites – these being a challenging climbing routes with iron lines, often along sheer cliff faces. Alternatively, for mountain biking enthusiasts, go for an exhilarating ride around the area’s best cycle paths. Why not celebrate your outdoor achievements with an afternoon lazing by the pool?    

Days 7-9  Val Gardena to Cortina d’Ampezzo  
After a leisurely breakfast, drive to what is known as the ‘Queen of the Dolomites’, Cortina d’Ampezzo, which is known for its spectacular national park and fashionable boutiques. Pack a picnic and take to the scenic hiking trails leading from your hotel, perhaps stumbling across awe-inspiring viewpoints such as the Lago di Sorapiss, Cinque Torri or Rifugio Lagazuoi. Wander through Cortina, perhaps stopping to take photos of beautiful chalets, stunning lookout points and charming streets filled with cosy Alpine cafes and restaurants. Later, why not check out the designer shops located on the main shopping street, Corso Italia?  

Day 10  Cortina d’Ampezzo to Venice    
After picking up your final few souvenirs, take to your comfortable car for your final scenic drive across Veneto, to drop off the vehicle at Venice airport and make your onwards flight connection, or continue your travels.