Itinerary Expand allVillabassa to Villabassa Fly to Venice; transfer to Villabassa.Fly to Venice; transfer to Villabassa. Day 1 Start Villabassa.Start at the Hotel Adler in Villabassa.The leader will give a short briefing to give an overview of the week ahead and give you any useful information. Day 2 Lago di Braies (level 3 weeks)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, one of the 297 glacial lakes in the area. It is certainly one of the most beautiful thanks to being surrounded by jagged peaks that are reflected in the extraordinary mirror-like surface of the lake. We follow the route of 'SS hostages', the leaders of 19 countries who were freed after the First World War by the inhabitants of Villabassa.Approx. distance 14km, 650m ascent, 255m descent. Rossalmhütte (level 5 weeks)Some departures of this trip are at Level 5. On these weeks the walks completed are slightly different. We start our walk today from the beautiful Lago di Braies and ascend to Rossalmhütte. Approx. distance 15km, 750m ascent, 1000m descent. Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 3 Kreutzberg Pass to Nemes Alm (level 3)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 afternoon we visit Alpe Nemes hut where we could enjoy a drink and a home made apple strudel.Approx distance 14-16km. 6-700m ascent, 6-700m descent. Kreuzberg Pass to Knieberg (level 5 week)Following a different track to the level 3 weeks, we aim to summit Knieberg, descending later in the afternoon to Alpe Nemes hut. Approx. distance 21 km, 1000m ascent, 1000m descent. Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 4 Climb up towards Strudelkopf (level 3 weeks)We start the walk at 2000m altitude walking amongst beautiful wildflowers and ascends to the summit of Strudlekopf (2307m). We stop at the Durrenstein hut in the early afternoon to check the local Kaiserschmarren speciality. On a clear day, from the summit, we can enjoy views of the Tre Cime, Monte Piana and Monte Cristallo.Approx. distance 15km. 500m ascent, 1000m descent. Durrenstein Summit (level 5 weeks)Starting at Platzwiese, we walk to the summit of Durrenstein (2839m), a majestic peak which boasts views all the way to the Austrian Tyrol.Approx. distance 15km, 900m ascent, 900m descent. Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 5 Free dayA free day to relax in the hotel's wellness centre or take a self-guided cycle ride around this wonderful area. Alternatively, you can make your way to Bolzano to visit a museum dedicated to Oetzi, the 5000 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. Meals included: Breakfast Day 6 Tre Cime di Lavaredo (level 3 weeks)We enjoy a memorable walk under the famous '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.Approx distance 18km, 550m ascent, 1100 descent. Tre Cime di Lavaredo (level 5 weeks)Today we complete a beautiful walk near the spectacular Tre Cime di Lavaredo; we then follow the path on the north side of Paternkofel heading to the Comici hut above Fischleintal.Approx. distance 19km, 600m ascent, 1400m descent. Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 7 Monte Piano (level 3 weeks)To complete the week, we take the amazing estern approach route up Monte Piana. After 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 amongst the many 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.Approx distance 15km, 700m ascent, 800m descent. Monte Piana (level 5 weeks)We ascend the southern crag, with the aid of few bridges and a ladder; there is then time to explore the open-air museum, stretched between the northern summit of Monte Piano and the southern summit of Monte Piana.Approx. distance 13km, 1000m ascent, 700m descent. Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Transfer to Venice; fly to London.To Venice; fly to London. Meals included: Breakfast Day 8 End Villabassa.End Villabassa. Meals included: Breakfast
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Hotel Adler - 4 Star * The week is based at Hotel Adler, a 4-star hotel in Villabassa. Located on the village square, this quality hotel is considered the 'best in town'. All bedrooms (some with showers and some with baths) have tea/coffee making facilities (for a fee), minibar and TV.Renewed cosy bar and restaurant often busy with locals and with a relaxing lounge for peaceful readingSuperb indoor pool and wellness centre with sauna, steam room, solarium and small fitness centreThe passion of hospitality in rooms that write 400 years of history ROOM UPGRADE - EXODUS SPECIAL OFFERIf you wish for even more comfort, the Hotel Adler is able to offer upgrades for a special price, exclusive to Exodus. There are various types of rooms you can choose from. Contact us for prices and availability. Single roomsA limited number of double rooms for single use are available for a supplement. The accommodation shown has been booked and agreed in advance, however we may need to make changes to a property of similar or higher standard after you have booked. While we will endeavour to inform you of any changes in advance which could, on rare occasions, be at late notice.
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Reviewed October 2021 Cherie Vachon-HarrisJust amazing, in every way.. This was such an amazing trip that weeks later here at home I find myself missing the hiking, the mountains, the people the food, (and even the 6:30 AM church bells!! Go figure!) I’m so happy I was able to be part of this trip, I will never forget the beauty of the mountains and lakes we visited, and the their history that our guide Karl shared with us each day as we explored a new mountain range. I cant imagine a better guide than Karl. He was a calm, confident knowledgable (and funny!) presence we could count on each day. The best.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? I was inspired by the beauty of each hike and how different they each were! Karl was so intimately familiar with the regions we hiked in, that he took us off the beaten paths and always found THE most glorious spots for us to sit for our lunches.What did you think of your group leader? See above! The best👍🏼Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Don’t miss out on this one!!Is there anything else you would like to add? The Hotel Adler and all the staff were outstanding. The dinners were classic 5 course meals, and just delicious. The setting is beautiful as well.
Reviewed October 2021 Tracy LibbyReview of Sept-Oct 2021 hiking in the Dolomites This trip was certainly one of the best and most memorable of my life! I have been home for a number of weeks now and I am still basking in the memories of this trip and missing the daily excursions in the Dolomites. The adventure vacation of this particular trip was only super-enhanced by the expert guide, Karl, and the wonderful accommodations at the Adler Hotel!What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Karl encouraged each of us to challenge ourselves and in doing so, he took great care to ensure all were safe and that each of us felt safe. The most inspirational moment for me was on the day we hiked along narrow paths while holding a cable for stability. It was breath-takingly beautiful, it was challenging, and it was soul-filling.What did you think of your group leader? Karl Mather is a genius. Not only is he a highly trained and skilled guide in the Dolomite region, he was able to read the very diverse abilities of our group of 16 hikers, anticipate daily weather conditions, and consider daily adventures that would be most interesting to this particular group of hikers and adventure seekers. Karl was deliberate in each day's hike and he provided a drastically diverse experience each day, and the group quickly grew to trust him completely. This trip and these memories would not be possible without Karl as our guide. I would love to go on another adventure vacation with Karl guiding!Do you have any advice for potential travellers? GO!Is there anything else you would like to add? The Alder Hotel and staff in the little town of Niederdorf/Villabassa were impressive. There was an abundance of food and the varied spa accommodations at the hotel are exactly what is needed after a long day's hike. I would go on this trip again with Karl as the guide and at this same Hotel.
Reviewed October 2021 Stacie Hamilton-WaldronFantastic stay in the Dolomites It is difficult find the words to describe the majestic Dolomites. SPECTACULAR! This is a region steeped unforgettable views and history. Our treks each day left us reeling and amazed by the beauty. Our guide Karl Mather was outstanding! (more on Karl below) The Adler Hotel in Villabassa was a perfect respite after our long tracks each day. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. The rooms were comfortable and the spa/pool was beautiful. A great way to end the day sooth your aching muscles.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The never ending awe inspiring beauty!What did you think of your group leader? Karl Mather was an excellent and experienced guide. He led our group with professionalism, confidence and humor. Karl is a true historian of the area. He shared many interesting (and some humorous) stories as we hiked along the trails. Karl set just the right pace for our hikes each day. He gets to know his hikers abilities, strengths and weaknesses and carefully (and safely) encourages you to push your limits. Karl was a joy to get to know and travel with.Do you have any advice for potential travellers? I highly recommend exodus and especially our guide Karl Mather!
Reviewed October 2021 Rena DunnMighty Trek This region bursts with unique landscapes, peaceful villages and majestic mountains. There's no better way to experience its vast beauty than this northern Italy week long hiking tour. beautiful architecture, culture and incredible landscapes, for a challenging adventure through the far north of Italy, the Italian Dolomites hiking adventure hit just the spot!What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? A 19km up, around and under the ‘three chimneys’ The tre cime di lavaredo. Highlight of the week, physically exhausting, but breathtaking, and spiritual. Elevation ~ 8200’.What did you think of your group leader? A small group (16) hike in the Dolomites, IT. Sept/Oct. 2021, From the USA. Karl M. Is a true professional, (over 30 years of experience) as well as kind, knowledgeable, and deeply passionate, a gentle man. Awe inspiring to travel these mountains treks under his care and safety for sure. All MUST EXPERIENCE the true beauty of this part of the world with his leadership and expertise. Thanks Karl!
Reviewed October 2021 Eric DunnA Great trek and stay in the Dolomites The hotel was perfect for our group trekking adventure; the food was excellent, the staff was attentive and knowledgeable. The pool and spa area after our daily hikes was a treat and helped me recover for the next day. The staff to a person was courteous and pleasant. Our guide for the week was Karl , a very experienced all season hiker, mountaineer and climber who accommodated the wide range of abilities our group presented. Every day brought something new and his knowledge of local flora and fauna was amazing. He also brought us to historical sites in the mountains and allowed us to explore areas in depth. Karl made the trip so much more enjoyable with his confidence and easy going manner,- all our questions and concerns were answered and addressed with professionalism. I can recommend this trip with great confidence and I hope to be able to visit the region again.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The views of the 3 chimneys was spectacular and was a treat for the senses The Mt. Piano area with the tunnels, trenches and via Ferrata was over the top.What did you think of your group leader? Refer to the summary above. I can’t say enough about him: his experience, knowledge , and confidence made the trip that much more enjoyable. We able to spend some time with him socially and that was a treat .Do you have any advice for potential travellers? You will be at altitude so be sure to train with some long hikes and elevation gain to get yourself prepared.
Reviewed October 2021 Deborah SullivanSpectacular What a wonderful experience! I had complete confidence in our tour guide Karl - his expertise, knowledge and humor made this trip a wonderful trip. Karl was able to assess our group and tailor our hikes to our abilities and challenged each of us. His knowledge of the Dolomites and the incredible history of the area and his explanations made this trip incredibly interesting as well. He kept our minds and bodies busy! Hotel Adler - wonderful to come back to after a day of hiking. The spa and pool was such a nice luxury to enjoy after a day of hiking. The food was plenty and delicious. The staff at Hotel Adler made every effort to ensure our stay was perfect. I highly recommend this trip!What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The breathtaking views of the mountains. I was in awe.What did you think of your group leader? Karl was fantastic! I have complete confidence in his abilities and enjoyed listening to him tell us about the Dolomites and the history of the area. His sense of humor made every day fun. He set the bar VERY high for any other group leader that I may have on my next adventure!Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Book with Exodus!
Reviewed October 2021 Meg FergussonSpectacular The Dolomite landscape is spectacular in itself, but having our guide Karl to show us paths and sights and history off the beaten path are what made our trip fabulous. Hotel Adler in Villabassa made our stay evenings luxurious.What did you think of your group leader? Karl did a great job understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the group to provide opportunities for challenge for all. His thorough knowledge of the area and humour made for a great trip.
Reviewed September 2021 Arianna JakositzThe Dolomites Never Disappoint In truly bewildering fashion, every view in the Dolomites is a good view -- this is the fact my husband and I came to discover on our wonderful week in the region, hiking through the valleys, mountains, and villages. The history of the region is deep and fascinating (and remnants still exist and can be found on your hikes!), the landscape stunningly gorgeous, and the food and hotel top-notch. I can't recommend this trip enough and my husband and I were exceptionally pleased that this was our first trip since the start of the pandemic! We had been here before on the Exodus cycling trip, but feel as though the region is much more memorable and enjoyable through hiking. Super glad we opted to return!What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? It's impossible to pick just one. Every day's hike was gorgeous and rewarding, with a bit (or a ton) of history to go along with it. Our walk to Lago di Braies/Pragser Wildsee was beautiful and pleasant, with the juxtaposition of its historical significance at the end of WWII leaving us with plenty to reflect on. Likewise, the WWI leftovers scattered in the forests and mountains serve as reminders to the futility of war. It's a struggle to articulate the feelings evoked by the reminders of so much bloodshed in the exact location where you're simply gobsmacked at the natural beauty and current tranquility of your surroundings.What did you think of your group leader? Karl was, quite possibly, the exactly perfect guide. His knowledge of the region, familiarity with the people and landscape, and deep appreciation for it all made us feel fully engrossed in the area. Likewise, his innate knowledge of the areas we hiked and superb attention to the group's pace and interests kept us on time and constantly engaged every day. The man is a true professional, through and through, but he's also great fun to have a beer and chat with as well! We genuinely couldn't have hoped for a better leader for this trip -- he made an already fantastic experience near perfect. Thank you, Karl!!!Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Bring good hiking poles! Be prepared for rain and sun, warm and cool weather! Especially in September we seemed to get it all, but I also remember the weather being similarly variable in June from our past trip here. Also, lovely as the Hotel Adler is, you may get stuck in a room where you're going to hear the church bells (and 5am deliveries to the grocery stores next door...) every single day. We wished we had some earplugs... Curiously, our first time here we heard absolutely none of that so it is a gamble. Best to have them just in case! Also, training for steep ascents and descents on the hikes is also not a bad idea. Especially on the Monte Piana/Monte Piano hike, you're in for straight up at the beginning. Likewise, at the Tre Cime park, the ups and downs are no joke. All of it is great fun to look back on and give yourself a rightly deserved pat on the back for though (along with a beer!).Is there anything else you would like to add? If you're making your way to Niederdorf not with the included-flight folks, I am strongly convinced it's *much easier* to get there from the Austrian side than from the Italian side. The train station is about a 5 minute walk from the hotel and might be worth considering if, say, you wanted to join from Munich.
Reviewed November 2020 Gail MadeleyLast Minute End of Summer Walking Holiday!!!! Another great trip organised by Exodus staff. Whilst this was a last minute trip (transferred to this from medieval Spain due to Covid), it didn't disappoint. Great scenery, great companions, great leader. What was supposed to be an end of summer walking holiday, turned out to be a winter walking holiday, due to exceptional early winter conditions.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The views, the snow glistening, snow-shoeing, the company. A great break in what has been a year I guess everyone would wish to bypass.What did you think of your group leader? Alina was great. Her communication skills were exceptional, she was fun to be with, especially when playing Dixit! and she reorganised the walks taking into account the weather conditions in order to ensure we all got the best out of our trip.Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Take poles, be prepared for some long steep climbs, enjoy the scenery, the company and the food.Is there anything else you would like to add? I would like to thank the other members of our group, the hotel staff and Alina for making this a really enjoyable holiday and one I will not forget.
Reviewed October 2020 Lesley FyshFabulous trip Just returned from this trip. While destinations are limited at this time, this is no second-rate option. The family-run hotel is lovely with plentiful food and good rooms. The mountains are spectacular and the walks varied in nature.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? For me there isn't a single answer to this. We had 2 days walking on snow, other days with clear blue skies and pristine meadows, harder days and easier days. The stars of the show are the mountains, and our walks gave us a variety of spectacular views of them and from them.What did you think of your group leader? Alina is lovely. Although relatively new to the region she has clearly worked hard to familiarise herself with the walks and the surroundings. She was fun to be with as well as someone who inspired confidence.Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Other people have written similar, but I would stress that if you are not normally a pole-user (as I am not) borrow some anyway. In the snow they were invaluable. It's probably fair to grade this as a Moderate, although the snow made it trickier in places and thus a little harder.Is there anything else you would like to add? Our was a social group of mixed ages. Several people had booked this holiday as their other trips were cancelled, but I don't think anyone felt disappointed in any way. Highly recommended!
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