Hiking in the Dolomites and Lake Braies

Where it all begins

Today, we're off to the city of love: Venice! Well, Paris too, but ultimately it's a matter of taste. You can choose to reach Venice by train or bus, and in both cases, you'll cross the evocative Ponte della Libertà, suspended above the lagoon, to reach the city of over 400 bridges – ready to climb the steps?

Venice is best explored on foot, each alleyway concealing a treasure, but for a different perspective, nothing beats the vaporetto. It's impossible to miss iconic stops like Piazza San Marco, with its majestic Doge's Palace, St. Mark's Basilica, and the Campanile. But here, every street corner is an open-air museum, filled with romantic and timeless views to admire and capture.

For an unforgettable panoramic view, you can go up to the Terrazza del Fondaco dei Tedeschi, which offers an exceptional panorama of the Grand Canal and all of Venice – at sunset, it is simply magical.

In the afternoon, it's impossible to miss out on an essential Venetian tradition: going to the bacari! These typical bars are perfect for enjoying an ombretta (a glass of wine) and a cicchetto (a slice of bread or polenta topped with local delicacies – mozzarella in carrozza, meatballs, or other fried wonders).

This first Venetian evening deserves to be celebrated properly!

A dive into the Middle Ages

Ready to dive into a medieval adventure? Today, we're going back in time to historic villages and ancient castles.

First stop: Zumelle Castle, near the village of Mel. This castle, nearly two thousand years old, has been the scene of numerous battles due to its strategic location. Thanks to impressive renovations, it has regained all its medieval charm. If you really want to step into the shoes of a knight or lady, why not treat yourself to a themed lunch inside? On the menu: recipes and drinks inspired by the period.

And that's not all! Next, we'll explore the Blue Grotto, a turquoise treasure nestled in the heart of the Belluno Pre-Alps. An experience that promises to be unforgettable!

An enchanted village

In the afternoon, head to Cison di Valmarino, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. This little corner of paradise, nestled in the heart of the Venetian Prealps, offers everything you need to recharge: nature trails for walking, horseback riding and farms where you can taste local products.

The highlight of the day? Castelbrando, our second castle of the day, perched majestically above the village. A visit is a must to admire this historical gem. And after enjoying so many wonders, why not treat yourself to a delicious aperitif featuring local specialties? A perfect way to end this day full of discoveries.

At the summit of Mount Lagazuoi

Today, we're gaining altitude! We're heading for the highest point of our route: the summit of Mount Lagazuoi, at 2752 m altitude. To get there, we'll traverse the heart of the mountain by ascending a tunnel dug during the First World War, which served as a refuge and shelter for soldiers.

This tunnel is a true adventure, blending history and nature. Stretching for approximately 1 km, with a 640-meter elevation change, it winds its way through the mountain, offering several breathtaking views. The hike takes about 2 hours and requires some physical effort, but it's not dangerous. And if you prefer, the cable car can also take you directly to the summit.

Once at the top, we enjoyed a well-deserved lunch in an authentic mountain refuge, surrounded by incredible panoramas. A perfect moment to recharge after this memorable climb!

The pearl of the Dolomites

The second stop of the day takes us to Cortina d'Ampezzo, one of Italy's most famous mountain towns. This popular destination for VIPs, sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers is a true gem to discover in any season.

In Cortina, you'll be captivated by the elegance of this small village nestled in the heart of the mountains. The majestic Dolomites embrace the town, offering breathtaking panoramas. Whether you stroll through its picturesque streets or simply admire the splendor of these peaks, Cortina promises an unforgettable experience.

A mountain gem

Today, prepare to be amazed: we're heading to Lake Braies, an enchanting spot nestled in the heart of the Dolomites. This picture-postcard landscape is spectacular from every angle.

To fully appreciate it, you can choose to take a leisurely stroll around its perimeter or even cross its crystal-clear waters aboard a wooden boat. Take the time you need to soak in this natural beauty, breathe in the pure mountain air, and recharge in complete serenity.

Like on a postcard

When you think of the Dolomites, the majestic Tre Cime di Lavaredo are surely one of the first images that come to mind! You reach the Auronzo refuge, perched at nearly 2400 meters, from where a superb 9 km panoramic walk starts around these emblematic peaks.

This trail, accessible to all, offers incredible views of the border between Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige. Don't worry, the route is almost entirely flat, with only a few easy ascents and descents – perfect for enjoying yourself without too much effort!

For lunch, you can choose to have a picnic on the lawn or relax in a warm and welcoming shelter located along the trail. In both cases, the view will be simply spectacular.

At the Canova house

Today, we're heading south for a cultural stop in Possagno, home to the house-museum of Antonio Canova, one of the most celebrated Italian sculptors of the 19th century. This historically rich site houses a magnificent collection of plaster casts that served as models for his iconic works. A fascinating immersion into Canova's art and creative genius!

Late morning, we headed to Asolo, listed among the most beautiful villages in Italy. Here, we enjoyed an aperitif in the castle garden before indulging in a typical Venetian lunch at a local inn. A day filled with culture, charm, and culinary delights!

Bubbles!

The afternoon is dedicated to immersing ourselves in one of the country's most renowned wine regions: the Valdobbiadene hills. We'll explore several local wineries, where we'll learn the secrets of winemaking and the nuances that distinguish the different qualities. Of course, we won't just listen: it's time for a tasting! We'll savor their finest wines accompanied by typical cured meats and cheeses. A delightfully Venetian experience to end the day in style!

Bye

Our journey is coming to an end, but it's only a goodbye, not a farewell! See you very soon for new adventures together.