From the Dolomites to the Italian Lakes

Directly after the border crossing on the Brenner Pass, the mountain landscape of Italy's northernmost tip opens up. In the heart of Sterzing, the striking Zwölferturm immediately draws attention as a city landmark. The charming main street is characterized by colourful facades with characteristic bay windows and inviting squares. For panoramic views of the Alps, the nearby Rosskopf offers numerous hiking trails and recreational opportunities. The architecture in this area reflects a unique mix of Tyrolean traditions and Italian influences. This location serves as a natural resting point after the descent from the mountains towards the south. The surrounding landscape of the Eisacktal forms a green backdrop for a first introduction to the region.

In the heart of South Tyrol lies Meran, a city where alpine peaks and Mediterranean palms meet. The expansive gardens of Schloss Trauttmansdorff offer a colorful spectacle with views over the Adige Valley. Hikers enjoy the mild climate on the Tappeinerweg, a panoramic route that winds high above the city's rooftops. After a day in the mountains, the modern architecture of Therme Meran offers relaxation in therapeutic waters. The atmosphere in the city is a unique blend of Austrian tradition and Italian flair. Along the Passer River, wide promenades invite a peaceful stroll in the shade of historic buildings. The surrounding mountain landscape offers countless opportunities for active exploration in the fresh mountain air.

Bolzano is nestled in a wide valley where Italian and German-speaking cultures harmoniously converge. The city is known for the medieval arcades of the Laubengasse, where numerous specialty shops and outdoor cafes define the streetscape. The South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology houses the ice mummy Ötzi in a specially climatized room. The central Piazza Walther forms the beating heart of the city and offers a direct view of the Gothic cathedral. For a panoramic perspective of the surrounding mountain peaks, the Funivia del Renon cable car ascends to the higher plateaus. The city is completely surrounded by vineyards that climb the steep slopes of the Alps. Due to its central location, the city serves as a logical hub for explorations in the surrounding Dolomites. The local atmosphere is characterized by a unique combination of Alpine traditions and Mediterranean influences.

In the heart of the Dolomites lies the vast alpine meadow Seiser Alm, surrounded by the striking peaks of the Sassolungo. The rolling green meadows contrast sharply with the steep, jagged rock faces of the surrounding mountain massif. From villages like Ortisei, cable cars transport visitors to the high-altitude hiking trails and viewpoints. The Seceda ridge offers panoramic views over the Villnöß Valley and the surrounding mountain ranges. Visitors will find an extensive network of trails here that lead past traditional mountain huts and flower-filled fields. The landscape is accessible everywhere and offers space for both relaxed strolls and challenging climbs. The fresh mountain air and the constant views of the characteristic peaks define the atmosphere on this high plateau. This location forms an essential part of a South Tyrol itinerary due to its unique combination of natural grandeur and excellent accessibility.

The massive Sella massif forms the impressive centerpiece of the Dolomites. The Passo Pordoi connects Val di Fassa with the valley of Arabba via countless hairpin bends. From the mountain pass, a cable car leads to the plateau of the Sass Pordoi. Here you can enjoy a panoramic view known as the Terrazza delle Dolomiti. Around the Sella Group, hikers will find challenging trails through a rugged, lunar limestone landscape. The route over the pass is an iconic experience for those who love high-alpine roads. In the evenings, the sheer rock faces often turn deep red during sunset. This place offers an unparalleled combination of sporting challenge and natural beauty at high altitude.

Cortina d'Ampezzo is nestled deep in a wide valley, surrounded by the impressive peaks of the Ampezzo Dolomites. The village is known for its elegant atmosphere, with the pedestrianized Corso Italia forming its social hub, featuring numerous shops and outdoor cafes. For active travelers, the cable car to Tofana di Mezzo offers a spectacular view over the surrounding mountain ranges. The nearby Passo Falzarego serves as a gateway to challenging hiking trails and historical World War I sites. In the immediate vicinity, rugged rock faces and green alpine meadows alternate, creating a varied landscape. Its central location makes it an essential base for thoroughly exploring the eastern Dolomites. Gastronomy plays a significant role here, with mountain huts serving traditional dishes amidst an alpine setting. The combination of luxury amenities and rugged natural beauty gives this place a unique character within the region.

Verona, situated on the banks of the River Adige, exudes a timeless, romantic atmosphere. In the heart of the city, the imposing Arena di Verona immediately draws attention. This well-preserved Roman amphitheatre still serves as the backdrop for impressive open-air opera performances. A stroll through the cobbled streets inevitably leads to Juliet's House with its famous balcony. For panoramic views over the red rooftops and church spires, a climb to Castel San Pietro is an absolute must. The city effortlessly combines its ancient heritage with elegant squares such as Piazza delle Erbe. Here you can enjoy the local cuisine amidst historic facades and lively market stalls.

Sirmione is located on a narrow peninsula that extends deep into Lake Garda. At the entrance to the historic center stands the impressive Scaligero Castle with its characteristic battlements and private harbor. Walking through the narrow streets eventually leads to the furthest point of the headland. Here lie the extensive Roman ruins of the Grotte di Catullo amidst ancient olive trees. Just below this archaeological site are the smooth, light rock slabs of Jamaica Beach. The clear, shallow water around the quay creates an almost tropical sight. The combination of medieval architecture and the expansive panoramas over the water make a visit to this place unique.

Lake Garda stretches from the steep Alpine slopes in the north to the rolling hills in the south. Along its northern shores, the slopes of Monte Baldo offer a sweeping view over the deep blue waters. Water sports enthusiasts take advantage of the constant wind in the northern bays, while hikers explore the paths above the steep coastline. On the lake itself, the stately Isola del Garda draws attention with its Neo-Gothic palace and lush gardens. The shores are dotted with lemon groves and medieval fortified towns situated directly on the water. At Rocca di Manerba, visitors can walk through a nature park to the ruins of an ancient fortress on a cliff. The combination of a Mediterranean climate and the proximity to the mountains creates a distinctive, fresh atmosphere. A drive along the panoramic coastal road seamlessly connects the various charming ports and pebble beaches.

Lake Iseo is a quieter alternative to the larger lakes in Northern Italy and is surrounded by steep mountain sides and olive groves. In the middle of the lake rises Monte Isola, Europe's largest inhabited lake island, accessible only by ferry. On the northern shore lies the village of Lovere, which officially ranks among the most beautiful places in the country. The lakeside roads offer expansive views over the deep blue water and the surrounding Alpine peaks. Visitors can stroll along the promenade or explore the nearby vineyards of the Franciacorta region. The combination of unspoiled nature and small-scale villages creates a relaxed atmosphere. The lake is ideal for a stay where tranquility and local gastronomy take center stage.

Lake Como is distinguished by its characteristic Y-shape and the steep, forested mountain slopes that plunge directly into its deep blue waters. Along its shores, historic villas with expansive botanical gardens adorn the landscape. In centrally located Bellagio, visitors can stroll through narrow, stepped streets past colourful facades and luxury boutiques. A visit to the terraced gardens of Villa del Balbianello offers panoramic views over the shimmering water. The surrounding mountain peaks invite hikes with sweeping vistas over the Alps and the villages below. Small lakeside fishing villages retain a tranquil atmosphere amidst the impressive natural scenery. This region uniquely combines the elegance of classical architecture with the ruggedness of the mountains.

Lake Maggiore stretches between the regions of Piedmont and Lombardy and is surrounded by wooded mountain slopes. On the western shore lie the Borromean Islands, with their gardens and palaces bordering the water's edge. Isola Bella is particularly striking with its terraced gardens and the Baroque architecture of the Palazzo Borromeo. Walkers use the paths along the shore or seek out the higher-situated villages for a wide panorama over the water. On the south side, the medieval fortress Rocca di Angera stands on a high rock formation. The boulevards in towns such as Stresa offer opportunities for walks along the facades of historic hotels. Due to its sheltered location, the area has a mild climate where palm trees and camellias thrive. This setting provides a tranquil atmosphere for a multi-day stay by the water.