dolomites.jpeg

northeastern alps &
brenta dolomites


The Northeastern Italian Alps and the Brenta Dolomites are truly breathtaking. From the historic castles, vineyards and olive groves in the South Tyrol region to the ski town of Madonna di Campiglio, nestled in the heart of the Brenta Dolomites, you’ll have a beautiful, welcoming and authentic experience.

Here, you’ll embark on hikes to alpine blue lakes through rustic country villages and wildflower dotted meadows, and along trails boasting unbelievable views of the iconic Dolomite peaks. You’ll visit alpine rifugi, savoring an espresso or traditional canederli dumpling before hopping back on the path with a new boost in your step. 

Every day, you’ll enjoy each region’s cuisine, prepared with fresh and local ingredients. From a private wine tasting in a small, family-owned organic vineyard to a visit to a local cheesemaker’s farm,  you’ll eat well and connect with each other while engaging with the local community.

Relax at day’s end with a glass of the exquisite regional wine – Gewürztraminer – as you watch the sun set, casting a rose colored hue over the jagged peaks of the Dolomites. These parts of Italy are truly some of the most special and beautiful places in the world.

Full of welcoming people, a rich culture and many natural wonders, the Dolomites and the Northeastern Alps will steal your heart forever.

I always knew I wanted to go to Italy, but I also knew I wanted to avoid the tourist traps and crowded cities. Pathways offered that alternative and I’d go back again in a heartbeat. I’m looking forward to my next Pathways trip to Patagonia.
— tom c. | colorado

 TRIP HIGHLIGHTS


When to go: June - Mid-September
Start/End Airport: Verona
Minimum recommended length: 7 days / 6 nights
Average Mileage: 4 - 10 miles/day (options to shorten or lengthen)
Pre- or post-trip ideas
: Verona

  • Explore the South Tyrol and spa-town of Merano & the surrounding mountains & vineyards

  • Hike past alpine wildflowers & crystal-clear lakes

  • Visit a small, family-run vineyard & agriturismo for a tour, private tasting and home-hosted lunch

  • Hike in the undiscovered Brenta Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

  • Espresso breaks at alpine rifugi, meeting hikers & climbers from around the world

  • E-bike for a day along the Sarca River through the verdant Rendena Valley to Lago di Garda

  • Visit a local cheesemaker and taste the delicious and unique spressa cheese, sharing wine and conversation with a local family

  • Option to add a local guide for all or part of your trip

  • Enjoy a customized itinerary tailored to your preferred activity level, budget, accommodation preferences, interests & schedule

how it works


All of our itineraries are handcrafted and completely customizable to your preferred travel dates, budget, accommodation preferences and activity level.

From the initial proposal, we’ll work with you to refine your itinerary until it’s just right. On your trip, we'll provide you with everything you need to enjoy a local, authentic Pathways experience and the liberty to explore at your own pace.

To request a personalized proposal, please complete the form below
and we’ll contact you to chat about next steps.

The whole experience was one of the best we’ve ever had - the detailed Trip Handbook (all of the arrangements that were made for us to truly enjoy our experience without having to figure it out for ourselves); each day’s journey; Hotel Chalet del Sogno; Alberto; Gianni; the Dolomiti di Brenta; being with our friends; the food and drink.
— geoff h | massachusetts | northern italy 2019

 ACCOMMODATIONS


Where you stay on your Pathways trips will only enhance your experience. We'll work with you to select beautiful, authentic boutique lodging that will allow you to even more deeply connect with the local culture and cuisine of the place you're visiting. 

The lodgings we choose are locally or family owned, making your stay welcoming, unique and personal - the best spots to end an active day with relaxation, delicious food & wine, gracious hospitality and fun. 

Some of our favorite accommodations:
Miramonti Boutique Hotel in Hafling
Ottmanngut in Merano
Chalet del Sogno in Madonna di Campiglio
Hotel Due Torri in Verona
Alpina in Seiser Alm

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